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Compensation Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Rockridge Group

Financial Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

Administer the firm's incentive compensation process with the Assistant Controller and Compensation Controller as well as communicate all compensation with the HR department * Provide award payments ...

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Compensation Controller information

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$55K

$119.5K

$175.5K

How much do compensation controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for compensation controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a compensation controller?

Compensation Controllers are finance professionals responsible for overseeing and managing an organization's compensation programs, such as salaries, bonuses, and benefits. They ensure that compensation practices comply with legal regulations and align with the company's pay philosophy. Their duties often include analyzing compensation data, preparing reports, budgeting for employee compensation, and collaborating with HR and management to develop competitive pay structures. By maintaining effective compensation controls, they help attract and retain talent while managing costs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a compensation controller?

To thrive as a Compensation Controller, you need strong analytical and financial skills, in-depth knowledge of compensation structures, and typically a degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. Familiarity with HRIS systems, payroll software, and advanced Excel or data analytics tools is essential, along with relevant certifications such as CCP (Certified Compensation Professional). Exceptional attention to detail, discretion, and strong communication skills help you collaborate effectively with HR and leadership teams. These competencies ensure accurate compensation management, regulatory compliance, and support for strategic decision-making within the organization.

How does a compensation controller typically collaborate with HR and finance teams to ensure accurate payroll and benefits administration?

A Compensation Controller works closely with both HR and finance departments to ensure that payroll, bonuses, and benefits are administered accurately and in compliance with company policies and legal requirements. They often coordinate with HR to interpret compensation policies and analyze market data, while partnering with finance to reconcile payroll expenses and manage compensation budgets. Regular cross-departmental meetings and data-sharing are common, allowing the Compensation Controller to identify discrepancies, resolve issues, and support strategic compensation planning. Effective collaboration is key to maintaining transparency and ensuring all employee compensation is processed correctly and on time.

Is a compensation controller a high level position?

A compensation controller is typically a senior-level role responsible for overseeing compensation strategies, payroll, and benefits administration within an organization. It often requires extensive experience in finance, HR, or payroll systems and may involve managing teams or implementing policies, indicating a high level of responsibility. However, the exact seniority can vary depending on the company's size and structure.

What is the difference between Compensation Controller vs Payroll Manager?

AspectCompensation ControllerPayroll Manager
Primary FocusOversees compensation policies, salary structures, and complianceManages payroll processing, employee payments, and related operations
CredentialsOften requires HR or finance certifications, experience in compensationTypically requires payroll certifications or HR experience
Work EnvironmentCorporate HR or finance departments in various industriesPayroll or HR departments, often within larger organizations
Employer UsageUsed in organizations with complex compensation structuresCommon in companies with large payroll operations

The Compensation Controller focuses on designing and managing compensation strategies and policies, ensuring compliance and competitiveness. In contrast, the Payroll Manager handles the day-to-day processing of employee payments. While both roles require understanding of compensation and payroll systems, the Compensation Controller has a broader strategic role, whereas the Payroll Manager is more operational.

More about Compensation Controller jobs
What cities are hiring for Compensation Controller jobs? Cities with the most Compensation Controller job openings:
What states have the most Compensation Controller jobs? States with the most job openings for Compensation Controller jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Compensation Controller jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Compensation Controller jobs are:
Compensation Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Compensation Controller job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.

Investment Accountant (Max $44/hr W2)

Lenmar Consulting Inc.

New York, NY

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Finance

Job Description

This position is in the Global Compensation Controller team, responsible the functions relating to accounting and reporting of the carried interest compensation plans.
 

Responsibilities Include:

-Prepare or review monthly, quarterly and year-end financial close activities for carried interest compensation plans including mark-to-market revenue and expense, fund distributions and payments to participants

-Perform monthly reconciliations of balance sheet and P&L accounts

-Prepare or review monthly and quarterly investment and compensation reporting schedules

-Liaise with various internal and external stakeholders including Human Resources, Investment Management Controllers, Legal Entity Controllers, Financial and Regulatory Reporting, Tax and Morgan Stanleys fund and plan administrators

-Maintain and update strong control environment/audit documentation

-Assist with projects and Ad Hoc requests

Skills Required:

-BS/BA in Accounting, Finance or Business

-CPA candidate preferred

-Minimum of 5 years of accounting/finance experience, compensation/carried interest investment accounting a plus

-Proficiency in Microsoft Office with emphasis on Excel

Skills Desired:

-Strong problem solving and analytical skills

-Excellent communication, leadership, and multi-tasking skills

-Ability to prioritize and complete deliverables in a timely manner with high attention to detail

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.