BDO South Africa is recruiting for the 2026 SAICA Trainee Accountant (Audit – Financial Services) in Cape Town CBD. This SAICA training contract offers first-year trainees structured development in banking, insurance, asset management, funds, and related sectors. The role suits graduates who want audit exposure in Financial Services and a clear route to CA(SA) registration.
Key details
- Employer: BDO South Africa
- Role: SAICA Trainee Accountant, Audit – Financial Services
- Location: Cape Town CBD
- Job Type: 3-year training contract
- Ref: 2026FS
- Industry: Professional services
- Positions: 1
- Posted: 28 October 2025
Why this SAICA Trainee Accountant role in Financial Services
BDO is the South African member firm of a global organisation with offices across 167 countries and territories. Trainees join a supportive, people-focused culture with access to specialists across South Africa and the wider network.
The FS division offers hands-on audit work, client interaction from day one, and exposure to listed groups and owner-managed firms. Trainees engage with fast-moving FS clients and technology-driven teams, with secondment opportunities for qualifying staff.
What to expect at BDO
- Continuous opportunities for growth and learning
- Friendly, supportive teams and an open-door policy, including leadership
- Structured mentorship
- Hands-on involvement in audit work
- Exposure to JSE-listed groups and mid-market clients
- Community and CSI involvement
- Sports and social events
- Access to national and global expertise, coupled with agile delivery
Role purpose
The traineeship runs over three years and develops the full SAICA competency framework. Successful completion supports APC readiness and CA(SA) registration. Within Financial Services, trainees gain sector-specific audit experience across banking, insurance, asset management, funds, stockbroking, and investment management.
Responsibilities
- Perform audit fieldwork within FS engagements under supervision
- Work with client teams and management on-site and remotely
- Apply technical standards and firm methodologies
- Document audit evidence with attention to detail and clear reasoning
- Contribute to innovation across tools and workflows
- Collaborate within diverse teams to deliver high-quality client service
Minimum requirements
- Education: Honours, PGDA, CTA, or equivalent level from a SAICA-recognised university
- Documents for application: CV, South African ID copy, Matric Certificate, full Academic Record
Competencies
- Strong interest in financial markets and the FS sector
- Technical aptitude across accounting and auditing
- High attention to detail with analytical and problem-solving skills
- Confident written and verbal communication
- Client relationship skills and sound professional judgement
- Commitment to self-development and growth
- Teamwork across diverse groups
- Strong organisational ability
How to apply
Prepare the required documents and submit an online application for Ref: 2026FS. Include:
- CV
- Copy of South African ID
- Matric Certificate
- Full Academic Record
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for next steps.
BDO South Africa offers a structured three-year SAICA traineeship in Financial Services with real client exposure, mentorship, and clear steps toward CA(SA). Graduates who want hands-on audit experience in Cape Town will find the FS division a strong platform for skills development and career growth.
Check also: General Worker Vacancies at ERWAT (3 Positions)