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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 Jul 14, 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.

Do I need a CPA to become a controller?

A CPA is not required to become a compensation controller, but it can enhance credibility and career prospects in finance and accounting roles. Many controllers have accounting degrees and relevant experience, and certifications like CPA or CMA can be beneficial for advancing in the field.

What are Compensation Controllers?

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, and why are they important?

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.

Is controller higher than CFO?

A Compensation Controller is responsible for managing compensation-related financial data and ensuring accurate reporting within an organization. A CFO (Chief Financial Officer) holds a senior executive role overseeing all financial aspects of a company, including strategy, reporting, and risk management. Typically, the CFO is higher in the organizational hierarchy than a Compensation Controller.

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.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, Compensation Controllers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common among top executives like CEOs, investment bankers, or specialized surgeons. Compensation at this level often involves a combination of base salary, bonuses, stock options, and other incentives, usually in senior leadership or highly specialized roles. Achieving this income generally requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

In the field of compensation control, high-level executive roles such as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or Chief Executive Officer (CEO) can earn over $1 million annually, especially in large corporations. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership skills, with compensation packages including salary, bonuses, and stock options. Other highly compensated roles in finance or consulting may also reach this level, but they are less common and typically involve significant responsibility and expertise.

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.

Associate, Broker Compensation

Cantor Fitzgerald Securities

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Broker compensation controller is an integral member of the finance team, reporting directly to Financial Controller, participating in the accounting and finance processes and controls over internal and external financial reporting, and product control. The successful candidate will join a team of professionals responsible for the Financial, Regulatory, and Management accounting for BGC's and GFI's Americas brokering business.

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting 

  • 4 years of experience in an accounting department

  • Extensive experience using MS Excel.  Must be able to work with large amounts of data including Pivot tables, Lookups and a wide range of formulas

  • Hands-on experience with automation or productivity AI tools (e.g., Claude, ChatGPT Microsoft Copilot or equivalent); ability to apply to finance workflows such as reporting, variance analysis, or documentation.

  • Highly organized and detail oriented with the ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment

  • Ability to think critically about current processes and translate improvement ideas into actionable, well-documented plans 

  • Ability to multitask and prioritize time sensitive assignments 

  • Working with accounting software, preferably Oracle

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

  • Excellent research and problem-solving skills with the ability to proactively seek solutions

  • Gatekeeper of highly sensitive and confidential information

  • Prepares and reviews broker compensation in accordance with their contracts, consults with Senior Management and head of businesses

  • Performs month end close pertaining to Broker Compensation utilizing Oracle General Ledger system

  • Perform monthly balance sheet substantiation, evaluate adequacy of expense accruals, resolving issues, and escalate key items to management timely 

  • Bring a continuous improvement mindset to day-to-day work, proactively surfacing inefficiencies and recommending practical solutions 

  • Identify and lead opportunities to streamline and automate recurring finance processes, reducing manual effort and improving accuracy and efficiency 

  • Prepares executive summary and reports to Senior Management monthly

  • Responsible for interacting with internal and external auditors on a regular basis

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