Position
Salary

How much does a Compensation Manager make?

The average salary for a Compensation Manager is $148,989 per year in the US.

A Compensation Manager plays a key role in ensuring that employees are paid fairly. They work to create and manage salary structures, benefits, and other forms of compensation. This job often requires a mix of skills, including knowledge of finance, human resources, and labor laws. The average yearly salary for a Compensation Manager is around $148,989. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the company.

Compensation Managers can earn different amounts depending on their level of experience and the industry they work in. For example, those with less than a year of experience might earn around $72,500. As experience grows, so does the salary. Managers with over 20 years of experience can earn upwards of $268,864 per year. This range shows that there are good opportunities for growth in this career.

View Compensation Manager jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Compensation Manager?

Compensation managers can find some of the best pay in major California cities. Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Jose offer the highest salaries. These cities provide strong opportunities for those seeking top compensation. Other cities also offer competitive pay. Detroit, Pittsburgh, and Hartford provide solid salaries for compensation managers. Boston, San Diego, Minneapolis, and Seattle also offer attractive compensation packages. These cities present good options for those looking to earn a good living.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Compensation Manager jobs, highlighting Los Angeles, CA with the highest at $199,305 and Seattle, WA with the lowest at $160,080.
  1. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $199,305
    In Los Angeles, professionals in this role enjoy a dynamic work environment. Companies like Amazon and Google offer exciting opportunities. The city's diverse industries provide a range of experiences.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $183,511
    San Francisco is home to tech giants like Apple and Salesforce. Working here means being part of a cutting-edge industry. The city's vibrant culture enhances the professional experience.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $174,919
    San Jose offers a thriving tech scene with companies such as Intel and eBay. This city is perfect for those passionate about innovation. The cost of living is high, but so are the rewards.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in San Jose, CA


  4. Detroit, MI
    Average Salary: $171,218
    Detroit is known for its automotive industry. Working here means being part of a historic sector. Companies like Ford and General Motors offer stability. The city is also experiencing a cultural renaissance.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Detroit, MI


  5. Pittsburgh, PA
    Average Salary: $165,780
    Pittsburgh combines industry with a strong sense of community. Companies like UPMC and PPG offer solid career paths. The city's rich history adds to its appeal.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Pittsburgh, PA


  6. Hartford, CT
    Average Salary: $165,469
    Hartford is known for its insurance industry. Companies like Aetna and Travelers provide excellent opportunities. The city offers a balanced lifestyle with its blend of urban and suburban areas.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Hartford, CT


  7. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $163,986
    Boston is a hub for education and healthcare. Companies like Mass General and Harvard offer prestigious roles. The city's rich history and vibrant culture make it a unique place to work.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Boston, MA


  8. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $160,420
    San Diego offers a mix of biotech and defense industries. Companies like Qualcomm and Scripps provide diverse opportunities. The city's beautiful weather adds to the quality of life.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in San Diego, CA


  9. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $160,293
    Minneapolis is known for its finance and healthcare sectors. Companies like UnitedHealth Group and Target offer stable careers. The city's parks and lakes provide a great work-life balance.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  10. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $160,080
    Seattle is a tech hub with companies like Microsoft and Amazon. Working here means being at the forefront of innovation. The city's natural beauty and outdoor activities enhance the lifestyle.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Seattle, WA

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

Rsm, Accenture, and Marsh McLennan offer some of the highest salaries for Compensation Managers. With average salaries reaching up to $218,595, these companies provide excellent compensation packages. Abbott, Deloitte, and KPMG also offer competitive pay, making them attractive options for job seekers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Compensation Manager jobs, highlighting Rsm with the highest at $218,595 and Marriott International with the lowest at $122,544.
  1. Rsm
    Average Salary: $218,595
    Rsm offers competitive salaries for Compensation Managers. They operate in various locations, providing opportunities for career growth. Rsm focuses on delivering professional services with a personal touch.


  2. Accenture
    Average Salary: $204,904
    Accenture provides high compensation for Compensation Managers. They have offices worldwide, offering a dynamic environment. Accenture specializes in strategy, consulting, and technology services.


  3. Marsh McLennan
    Average Salary: $190,161
    Marsh McLennan offers attractive salaries for Compensation Managers. They operate in multiple countries, providing a global perspective. Marsh McLennan is a leader in risk, strategy, and people consulting.


  4. Abbott
    Average Salary: $179,154
    Abbott offers competitive pay for Compensation Managers. They have a presence in many regions, focusing on health and nutrition. Abbott is a global healthcare company dedicated to improving lives.


  5. Deloitte
    Average Salary: $174,841
    Deloitte provides good compensation for Compensation Managers. They have offices in many cities, offering diverse opportunities. Deloitte is a top firm in audit, consulting, and financial advisory.


  6. KPMG
    Average Salary: $168,247
    KPMG offers attractive salaries for Compensation Managers. They operate in numerous locations, providing a broad range of services. KPMG is known for its audit, tax, and advisory services.


  7. Cox Communications Inc.
    Average Salary: $159,074
    Cox Communications Inc. provides competitive pay for Compensation Managers. They have offices in various states, focusing on communications and entertainment. Cox offers a range of services to their customers.


  8. Riveron
    Average Salary: $146,000
    Riveron offers good compensation for Compensation Managers. They operate in several locations, providing specialized services. Riveron focuses on delivering innovative solutions in their field.


  9. Robert Half
    Average Salary: $124,929
    Robert Half provides competitive salaries for Compensation Managers. They have offices in many cities, offering diverse opportunities. Robert Half specializes in connecting talent with opportunities.


  10. Marriott International
    Average Salary: $122,544
    Marriott International offers attractive pay for Compensation Managers. They have locations worldwide, providing a global hospitality experience. Marriott is a leading company in the travel and hospitality industry.

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 of these factors can help increase your earning potential. They can also help you advance in your career.

First, gaining relevant experience is crucial. Experience in human resources or a related field can help you understand the complexities of compensation. It can also make you more valuable to employers. Second, obtaining certifications can boost your credentials. Certifications like the Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) can demonstrate your expertise. Third, staying updated on industry trends is important. Knowledge of current compensation practices can help you make informed decisions. Fourth, developing strong analytical skills is essential. These skills help you evaluate compensation data and make recommendations. Finally, networking with other professionals can open up new opportunities. Building relationships can lead to job offers and salary increases.

Consider these factors to enhance your career as a Compensation Manager. Each step can help you earn more and achieve your professional goals.

  • Gain relevant experience
  • Obtain certifications
  • Stay updated on industry trends
  • Develop strong analytical skills
  • Network with other professionals

Currently 293 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
Overview
Compensation Manager
293 Job Openings