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How much does a Compensation Manager make?

The average salary for a Compensation Manager is $146,096 per year in the US.

A Compensation Manager plays a key role in ensuring that employees are paid fairly. This role often comes with a rewarding salary. On average, Compensation Managers earn about $146,096 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and industry.

The salary range for Compensation Managers can be quite broad. Some earn as little as $71,700, while others can reach up to $279,500. Most Compensation Managers fall somewhere in the middle of this range. Factors like company size, experience, and specific industry can influence these figures. For example, those in tech or finance often see higher salaries compared to other sectors.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Compensation Manager?

Compensation managers can find top-paying opportunities in several major cities. Los Angeles, CA, offers the highest average salary at $193,965. Following closely, San Francisco, CA, provides an average salary of $178,713. These cities present excellent prospects for those seeking rewarding compensation management roles. Other cities with competitive salaries include Detroit, MI, and San Jose, CA, both offering salaries over $168,000. Boston, MA, and Pittsburgh, PA, also offer strong compensation packages, with averages around $163,000. These locations provide a range of opportunities for compensation managers looking to advance their careers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Compensation Manager jobs, highlighting Los Angeles, CA with the highest at $193,965 and San Diego, CA with the lowest at $159,809.
  1. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $193,965
    Los Angeles offers a vibrant job market for those in the compensation field. With major companies like Amazon and Google, professionals can expect dynamic roles. The city's diverse industries provide ample opportunities for growth.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $178,713
    San Francisco is home to tech giants like Apple and Salesforce. Working here means being at the forefront of compensation trends. The city's innovative environment fosters career advancement.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Detroit, MI
    Average Salary: $169,727
    Detroit is revitalizing its economy, making it a great place for compensation experts. Companies like General Motors offer stable and rewarding positions. The city's rich culture adds to the professional experience.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Detroit, MI


  4. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $168,909
    San Jose is a hub for tech companies such as Intel and eBay. Professionals here enjoy competitive salaries and dynamic work environments. The city's focus on innovation drives career growth.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in San Jose, CA


  5. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $163,650
    Boston offers a mix of finance and education sectors. Working here means collaborating with top firms like Fidelity and Harvard. The city's historic charm complements a thriving career.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Boston, MA


  6. Pittsburgh, PA
    Average Salary: $163,523
    Pittsburgh is known for its strong manufacturing and healthcare sectors. Companies like UPMC and PPG provide excellent opportunities. The city's vibrant community enhances the professional experience.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Pittsburgh, PA


  7. Miami, FL
    Average Salary: $161,391
    Miami's diverse economy includes finance and tourism. Working here means engaging with companies like Bank of America and Carnival. The city's lively atmosphere makes for a rewarding career.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Miami, FL


  8. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $160,782
    Minneapolis offers a blend of finance and healthcare. Companies like Target and UnitedHealth Group provide stable roles. The city's friendly environment supports professional growth.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  9. Hartford, CT
    Average Salary: $159,846
    Hartford is a hub for insurance and healthcare. Working here means collaborating with companies like Aetna and Travelers. The city's rich history adds to the professional experience.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Hartford, CT


  10. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $159,809
    San Diego offers a mix of biotech and defense industries. Companies like Qualcomm and Scripps Health provide excellent opportunities. The city's beautiful setting enhances the professional experience.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the best companies a Compensation Manager can work for?

Accenture offers one of the highest salaries for Compensation Managers, averaging around $230,500. RSM and Marsh McLennan also provide competitive compensation packages, with average salaries close to $218,383 and $199,669, respectively. Abbott, Deloitte, and KPMG follow closely behind, offering salaries that exceed $170,000 annually.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Compensation Manager jobs, highlighting Accenture with the highest at $230,500 and Robert Half with the lowest at $131,382.
  1. Accenture
    Average Salary: $230,500
    Accenture offers competitive compensation packages for Compensation Managers. They operate globally, with major offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Compensation Managers at Accenture work to ensure fair and competitive pay for employees.


  2. Rsm
    Average Salary: $218,383
    Rsm provides attractive salaries for Compensation Managers. This company has offices across the United States. They focus on delivering quality services to their clients, and Compensation Managers play a key role in managing employee benefits.


  3. Marsh McLennan
    Average Salary: $199,669
    Marsh McLennan offers a strong compensation package for Compensation Managers. They have a global presence with offices in North America, Europe, and Asia. Compensation Managers here work to align employee pay with company goals.


  4. Abbott
    Average Salary: $183,385
    Abbott provides competitive salaries for Compensation Managers. They operate in many countries around the world. Compensation Managers at Abbott focus on ensuring that employees are paid fairly and competitively.


  5. Deloitte
    Average Salary: $174,841
    Deloitte offers attractive compensation for Compensation Managers. They have offices in over 150 countries. Compensation Managers here work to develop and manage pay structures for employees.


  6. KPMG
    Average Salary: $168,247
    KPMG provides good salaries for Compensation Managers. They operate in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Compensation Managers at KPMG focus on ensuring fair and competitive pay for employees.


  7. Cox Communications Inc.
    Average Salary: $159,074
    Cox Communications Inc. offers competitive compensation for Compensation Managers. They operate in the United States, primarily in the Southeast. Compensation Managers here work to ensure fair and competitive pay for employees.


  8. Riveron
    Average Salary: $146,000
    Riveron provides good compensation for Compensation Managers. They operate globally, with offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Compensation Managers at Riveron work to develop and manage pay structures for employees.


  9. Chewy
    Average Salary: $133,342
    Chewy offers competitive compensation for Compensation Managers. They operate in the United States. Compensation Managers here focus on ensuring fair and competitive pay for employees.


  10. Robert Half
    Average Salary: $131,382
    Robert Half provides good compensation for Compensation Managers. They operate in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and Europe. Compensation Managers at Robert Half work to develop and manage pay structures for employees.

How to earn more as a Compensation Manager?

A Compensation Manager plays a key role in ensuring that employees are paid fairly and competitively. To earn more in this role, consider these important factors. Each one can help boost your salary and career growth.

First, gaining relevant experience is crucial. Experience in human resources and a strong understanding of compensation practices can make a significant difference. Employers often value candidates with a proven track record in managing compensation packages. Second, obtaining certifications can enhance your skills and marketability. Certifications such as the Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) can set you apart from other candidates. Third, staying updated with industry trends is essential. Keeping up with the latest compensation strategies and market data can help you make informed decisions. Fourth, networking with other professionals in the field can open up new opportunities. Joining professional organizations and attending industry events can provide valuable connections. Finally, seeking out leadership roles can lead to higher earning potential. Taking on responsibilities such as managing a team or overseeing a larger compensation budget can demonstrate your capabilities and readiness for higher pay.

By focusing on these factors, a Compensation Manager can increase their earning potential and advance their career.

  1. Gain relevant experience
  2. Obtain certifications
  3. Stay updated with industry trends
  4. Network with other professionals
  5. Seek leadership roles

Currently 285 Compensation Manager job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Compensation Manager in the US?

Learn what a Compensation Manager does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Compensation Manager today.
Position
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Compensation Manager
285 Job Openings