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Compensation Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Hotel Director of Sales

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

All Associates * Competitive Compensation with incentives (incentives vary by position) * 401K Savings Plan, 50% matching up to 10% of compensation * Associate referral program * Brand and company ...

Tax Senior Associate - Compensation & Benefits

Chicago, IL · On-site

$84K - $104K/yr

As a Senior Associate on our Compensation and Benefits Tax Advisory team, you'll have the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients - global and domestic, public and private - on some of their ...

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Compensation Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$47.9K

$61.4K

$72.6K

How much do compensation associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for compensation associate in Chicago, IL is $61,367.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,100.00 and $66,400.00 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Compensation jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Compensation Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Compensation Associate job openings:
Hotel Director of Sales

Hotel Director of Sales

McKibbon Hospitality

Chicago, IL • On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


McKibbon Hospitality rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Location: Hyatt House Chicago
Starting Rate of Pay: $100,000-$110,000 base, plus bonus
What Makes a McKibbon Hotel Director of Sales?
As a key member of the property leadership team, the Hotel Director of Sales is accountable for the revenue generation of the hotel. Reporting to the General Manager, the Hotel Director of Sales is responsible for maintaining the highest level of ethical leadership to lead the property to achieve its business goals.
A Day in the Life:
  • You will be responsible for the overall sales and revenue of the property.
  • Weekly you will attend revenue management and sales strategy calls property and regional team
  • You will train all associates as it relates to the sales process to maximize revenues.
  • You will implement and train associates on all McKibbon procedures that relate to sales, including systems and processes.
  • You will be responsible for maintaining compliance and remaining up to date on new sales initiatives for the brand and company.
  • You will be actively involved in critiquing the STR report.
  • You will actively support the operations team.
  • You will maintain positive relationships with the management company, property owners, and clients.
  • You will act as the face of the property by being involved in the community.
  • You will maintain all sales documentation and sales procedures through training, coaching, counseling, and progressive discipline when necessary.
  • You will support guest experience and satisfaction in all operations.
  • You will be the lead team member for interviewing and hiring any new sales team members.

Requirements:
  • Associates/Bachelor's degree preferred
  • 3-5 years' minimum experience as a hotel Sales Manager or Director of Sales
  • Previous hotel management experience within other disciplines (highly desired)
  • Experience working with major brands like Marriot, Hilton, or Starwood (highly desired)
  • The ability to make revenue management decisions to effectively grow market share
  • The skills and experience to lead a team to consistently deliver exceptional guest service and effectively grow revenues
  • A proven track record of adhering to budgets
  • Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
  • The ability to develop a strong sales team
  • Delphi Standard and Essentials or Delphi Advanced experience preferred

Perks & Benefits Beyond the Basics:
We know that hospitality starts from within, and that's why we value the employee experience as much as we value our guests' experience. From our competitive benefits package to our fun-loving spirit, we strive to create an environment that's equal parts work and play. Our people will always be our first investment. We offer benefits and perks based on full or part time employment:
Benefits: Full Time Associates:
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision
  • Life insurance
  • Pet Insurance
  • Short and long-term disability
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Tuition assistance

Financial & Occupational Wellness: All Associates
  • Competitive Compensation with incentives (incentives vary by position)
  • 401K Savings Plan, 50% matching up to 10% of compensation
  • Associate referral program
  • Brand and company training classes, workshops and conferences for career growth and development (varies by position)

Personal Wellness: All Associates
  • Fundraising matching funds program
  • Team volunteer opportunities
  • 24/7 chaplain services
  • Exclusive hotel rate discounts

Any state specific holiday, vacation or benefit requirements will apply.
All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, military status, or any other protected characteristic in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

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