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Salary

How much does a Compensation Manager make?

The average salary for a Compensation Manager is $168,082 per year in the US.

A Compensation Manager plays a key role in shaping the rewards and benefits that employees receive. This professional ensures that pay and benefits align with market standards and company goals. The average yearly salary for a Compensation Manager stands at $168,082, reflecting the value of this role.

Salary for this position can vary based on experience, location, and industry. Here are some common salary brackets:

  • 10th percentile: $80,000
  • 25th percentile: $96,397
  • 50th percentile: $129,190
  • 75th percentile: $178,380
  • 90th percentile: $227,569
  • 95th percentile: $243,966
Compensation Managers can expect a salary that reflects their experience and the industry they work in. A deeper dive into specific sectors reveals even more about earning potential.

View Compensation Manager jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Compensation Manager?

Looking for top-paying jobs as a Compensation Manager? Los Angeles, CA, leads the pack with an average salary of $208,389. In Winston-Salem, NC, Compensation Managers can expect to earn an average of $200,041. Close behind is San Francisco, CA, where the average salary stands at $195,667. These cities offer strong job opportunities for Compensation Managers seeking higher earnings.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Compensation Manager jobs, highlighting Los Angeles, CA with the highest at $208,389 and Boston, MA with the lowest at $178,760.
  1. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $208,389
    In Los Angeles, this role often involves managing compensation for tech and entertainment giants. The city offers a dynamic work environment with plenty of opportunities to grow. Many companies, including major players in the film and tech industries, value strong compensation strategies.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  2. Winston-Salem, NC
    Average Salary: $200,041
    Working in Winston-Salem means dealing with a blend of small businesses and large corporations. This role helps ensure fair pay practices across various industries. Companies here often value detailed compensation analysis and employee satisfaction.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Winston-Salem, NC


  3. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $195,667
    In the tech hub of San Francisco, this position plays a key role in crafting competitive pay packages. Silicon Valley companies demand innovative compensation strategies. The city’s competitive market makes this role both challenging and rewarding.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in San Francisco, CA


  4. Stamford, CT
    Average Salary: $190,190
    In Stamford, this role often involves working with financial and insurance companies. Compensation managers here focus on implementing effective pay structures. The corporate environment offers stability and professional growth.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Stamford, CT


  5. Albany, NY
    Average Salary: $188,573
    Working in Albany means collaborating with government and educational institutions. This role supports fair compensation practices within these sectors. The city’s supportive atmosphere fosters professional development.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Albany, NY


  6. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $186,219
    In San Jose, this role is crucial for tech companies like Google and Apple. It involves managing salaries and benefits for a diverse workforce. The city’s innovation-driven culture provides ample opportunities for growth.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in San Jose, CA


  7. Detroit, MI
    Average Salary: $186,167
    In Detroit, this role often involves working with automotive companies. It focuses on crafting compensation strategies that align with industry standards. The city’s manufacturing roots offer a unique professional landscape.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Detroit, MI


  8. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $183,001
    In San Diego, this role supports companies in biotech and defense. Compensation managers here ensure fair and competitive pay. The city’s strong economy provides diverse career opportunities.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in San Diego, CA


  9. Hartford, CT
    Average Salary: $182,453
    In Hartford, this position often involves insurance and financial services firms. It emphasizes creating balanced compensation packages. The city’s business-friendly environment supports career advancement.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Hartford, CT


  10. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $178,760
    In Boston, this role plays a key part in tech and healthcare companies. It involves designing compensation strategies that attract top talent. The city’s rich history and vibrant economy enhance professional opportunities.
    Find Compensation Manager jobs in Boston, MA

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

If you are seeking a Compensation Manager role, some of the top-paying companies include WTW, Rsm, and KPMG. WTW offers an average salary of $312,500, providing an excellent opportunity for growth and financial stability. Rsm and KPMG follow closely behind, offering average salaries of $221,661 and $216,499 respectively, making them attractive options for those in the field. Exploring roles with Accenture, Aprio, and Cox Communications Inc. can also lead to lucrative opportunities. Accenture pays an average of $200,487, while Aprio and Cox Communications Inc. offer $195,000 and $162,600 respectively. These companies value compensation expertise and are eager to reward top talent with competitive packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Compensation Manager jobs, highlighting WTW with the highest at $312,500 and Edward Jones with the lowest at $149,386.
  1. WTW
    Average Salary: $312,500
    WTW offers competitive Compensation Manager salaries. They operate globally with headquarters in Chicago, London, and Singapore. They manage risks and improve financial performance.


  2. RSM
    Average Salary: $221,661
    RSM provides a high average salary for Compensation Managers. They work across the United States with offices in major cities. They help clients navigate financial challenges.


  3. KPMG
    Average Salary: $216,499
    KPMG offers solid Compensation Manager salaries. They have locations in over 150 countries. They provide audit, tax, and advisory services.


  4. Accenture
    Average Salary: $200,487
    Accenture pays well for Compensation Managers. They serve clients in 45 countries. They focus on strategy, consulting, digital, technology, and operations.


  5. Aprio
    Average Salary: $195,000
    Aprio offers a good salary for Compensation Managers. They have offices across the United States. They provide accounting and advisory services.


  6. Cox Communications Inc.
    Average Salary: $162,600
    Cox Communications offers a competitive salary for Compensation Managers. They operate primarily in the United States. They provide cable communications and internet services.


  7. IDEA Public Schools
    Average Salary: $161,500
    IDEA Public Schools provides a fair salary for Compensation Managers. They serve students in Texas and Arizona. They focus on education and student success.


  8. Salesforce
    Average Salary: $158,690
    Salesforce offers a solid salary for Compensation Managers. They have global headquarters in San Francisco. They lead in customer relationship management (CRM) technology.


  9. Ameriprise Financial
    Average Salary: $158,298
    Ameriprise Financial offers a good salary for Compensation Managers. They have offices throughout the United States. They provide financial services and advice.


  10. Edward Jones
    Average Salary: $149,386
    Edward Jones offers a competitive salary for Compensation Managers. They operate in the United States with over 14,000 financial advisors. They focus on personalized investment strategies.

How to earn more as a Compensation Manager?

A Compensation Manager oversees employee pay, benefits, and bonuses. To earn more in this role, focus on continuous improvement and strategic thinking. Building a strong reputation as a knowledgeable and strategic professional can help achieve higher earnings. Understanding market trends and staying ahead of industry changes is crucial.

Here are key factors to consider for earning more as a Compensation Manager:

  • Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications. Certifications such as Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) or Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) can boost your credentials.
  • Experience: Gain experience in various industries. Broad experience makes you more versatile and valuable to employers.
  • Advanced Degrees: Pursue a master's degree in Human Resources or Business Administration. Higher education can open doors to more senior positions.
  • Networking: Build a strong professional network. Connections can lead to job opportunities and salary increases.
  • Performance: Show consistent, high performance. Deliver successful projects and meet company goals to demonstrate your worth.

Currently 208 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
208 Job Openings