Forensic Accounting Investigator

Do you have experience planning, leading and conducting forensic accounting investigations and strong communication skills? Do you have in-depth knowledge of accounting theories, practices, policies and audit standards?

If your answer is yes to all of the above, consider this exciting opportunity in the Office of Tax, Benefits and Local Finance, Tax Compliance and Benefits Division, Ministry of Finance.

OPS Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism:

We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.

We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.

Visit the OPS Anti-Racism Policy and the OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service.

We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's Human Rights Code. Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation.

What can I expect to do in this role?

In this role, you will:

• plan, lead and conduct investigations and search and seizure actions involving non-compliance and/or frauds relating to the evasion of tax and/or obtainment of grants or subsidies under all statutes administered by the Ministry of Finance
• provide forensic accounting services to other ministries and Broader Public Sector organizations
• obtain evidence by ensuring proper collection, custody, control and identification, by locating, interviewing or interrogating informants, third party witnesses, suspected violators and/or other representatives
• examine and analyze all evidence, including tax returns, books and records to obtain proof of tax evasion and/or fraud
• consolidate data, and prepare reports and prosecution briefs recommending further investigative or prosecution action
• participate in the prosecution of violators and participate in Joint Force Operations with other tax jurisdictions such as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and police agencies
• conduct ongoing research of recent and relevant case law, investigative technology, and the preservation of documentary and electronic evidence

How do I qualify?

Technical Knowledge and Skills

• You have strong knowledge of accounting theory, practices, policies and audit standards to understand and analyze complex accounting systems. This knowledge is normally gained through successful completion of an accounting designation (CPA) or a recognized university degree/community college diploma plus or including courses in Introductory Financial Accounting, Intermediate Financial Accounting and Auditing or equivalent work experience.
• You have in-depth knowledge of investigative techniques, judicial processes, rules of evidence and court procedures to carry out investigations, gather evidence, interview individuals and prepare and assist with prosecutions.
• You have knowledge of/ability to interpret the relevant legislation administered by the Tax Compliance and Benefits Division (e.g. Land Transfer Tax Act, Employer Health Tax Act, Tobacco Tax Act, Fuel Tax Act, Gasoline Tax Act).
• You have working knowledge of various computer software programs, and mainframe systems and the ability to use government databases.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

• You have excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills to interview complainants, informants, witnesses, suspects and other representatives to obtain evidence.
• You have strong written communication skills to prepare prosecution reports and documents required for court proceedings.
• You have experience preparing and delivering presentations.

Analytical, Planning and Problem-Solving Skills

• You have well-developed analytical skills to assess the nature of alleged contraventions in relation to legislation, regulations and/or statutes.
• You have effective planning skills to develop a course of action and establish how evidence will be collected.
• You have problem-solving skills to determine whether violations occurred.