ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Compensation Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCompensation Associate JobsCompensation Associate Jobs in California

Compensation Associate information

See California salary details

$45.9K

$58.8K

$69.6K

How much do compensation associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for compensation associate in California is $58,791.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,800.00 and $63,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Compensation Associate vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectCompensation AssociatePayroll Specialist
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in HR, Business, or related field; certifications like CCP are a plusOften a degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business; certifications like CPP or payroll-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentHR or Compensation departments within organizations, focusing on pay structures and benefitsFinance or HR departments, handling payroll processing and compliance
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across various industries in HR teams to manage compensation dataCommon in organizations with in-house payroll processing or payroll service providers

The Compensation Associate primarily focuses on designing and managing employee pay structures, benefits, and compensation data. In contrast, the Payroll Specialist handles the processing of employee wages, tax deductions, and compliance with payroll regulations. While both roles require knowledge of compensation and HR policies, the Compensation Associate emphasizes strategy and data management, whereas the Payroll Specialist concentrates on accurate payroll execution and reporting.

What are some common challenges Compensation Associates face when analyzing salary data across different departments?

Compensation Associates often encounter challenges such as inconsistent job titles, varying responsibilities across departments, and discrepancies in market data when analyzing salary information. Navigating these differences requires strong analytical skills and close collaboration with HR partners and department managers to ensure internal equity and external competitiveness. Staying updated with industry benchmarks and using standardized job evaluation methods can help address these issues and support fair compensation decisions.

What does a Compensation Associate do?

A Compensation Associate is responsible for supporting the development, implementation, and administration of an organization's compensation programs. They analyze salary data, benchmark roles against industry standards, assist with salary reviews, and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Their work helps ensure that employees are paid fairly and competitively, which can improve employee satisfaction and retention. Compensation Associates often collaborate with HR, finance, and management teams to align pay structures with company goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Compensation Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Compensation Associate, you need a solid understanding of compensation principles, data analysis, and human resources practices, usually backed by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with HR information systems (HRIS), advanced Excel skills, and compensation management tools like PayScale or Workday is often required. Strong attention to detail, discretion, and effective communication help you excel in handling sensitive data and collaborating across teams. These skills are crucial to ensure accurate compensation analysis, compliance, and fair pay practices within an organization.
What are the most commonly searched types of Compensation jobs in California? The most popular types of Compensation jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Compensation Associate jobs in California? For Compensation Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Compensation Associate jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Compensation Associate jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Compensation Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Compensation Associate job openings:
Compensation Associate jobs near you
Workers' Compensation Associate Attorney

Workers' Compensation Associate Attorney

Mullen & Filippi, LLP

Bakersfield, CA • Hybrid

$130K - $190K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description

For 70 years, Mullen & Filippi has been providing comprehensive Workers' Compensation Defense legal services to California employers on issues arising from workplace injuries and other employment-related concerns. We are an established and reputable law firm with fifteen office locations throughout the State of California.

All of our employees receive full benefits, including medical, dental, vision and 401(k) retirement. We offer a friendly and supportive work environment. We also understand the desire for a good balance between work and other life interests. If you are looking for a change and a nice place to work with a firm who cares, then we encourage you to apply. We work in a paperless environment, which uses minimal physical paper and instead uses primarily digital documents.

  • Competitive salary with a structure for monthly bonuses
  • Reasonable minimum billing requirements
  • Offices staffed with legal secretaries, assistants and clerks to support you
  • Both a partnership track and alternative compensation to meet individual needs
  • Little to no long-distance travel with most offices covering only the local WCAB
  • Hybrid and/or remote work available

Requirements

  • A background in Workers' Compensation defense required
  • Tech savvy and proficient in Microsoft Word and Outlook
  • Be a member of the California State Bar in good standing
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to identify urgency and prioritize tasks accordingly
  • Able to communicate clearly and persuasively both in writing and through speech
  • Able to independently and proactively handle files from referral to resolution
  • Able to work using case management software

The firm is an equal opportunity employer.

Must be a permanent resident of California. Salary commensurate with experience.

Apply