1

Compensation Controller Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Controller

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$230K - $250K/yr

The Controller manages and develops a high-performing accounting organization while partnering ... Compensation and Benefits * The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $230,000 ...

Controller

New York, NY ยท On-site

$200K - $225K/yr

We offer competitive compensation that includes base salary, variable compensation for relevant roles, meaningful equity, benefits, and perks. Actual compensation and offerings will vary based on ...

Controller

Union, NJ ยท On-site

$185K - $200K/yr

The company offers a competitive compensation package along with comprehensive benefits, including ... The Controller will oversee all accounting functions, financial reporting, cost accounting ...

Controller

New York, NY ยท On-site

$180K/yr

Controller Position Overview: The Controller will oversee all accounting and financial reporting ... Compensation: Up to $180,000, plus a targeted annual bonus of 10%. This range is a good faith ...

Controller

Manhattan, NY

$230K - $250K/yr

The Controller manages and develops a high-performing accounting organization while partnering ... Compensation and Benefits * The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $230,000 ...

Controller

Newark, NJ ยท On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

| Controller Division | Finance, Retail & Operations Department | Accounting Reporting Relationship ... Collaborates closely with the People and Culture team to ensure accuracy of compensation and ...

Controller

Brooklyn, NY ยท On-site

$171K/yr

Controller Museum overview The Brooklyn Museum is a world-renowned cultural institution dedicated ... competitive compensation along with generous benefits and perks for all eligible employees.

Controller

Newark, NJ ยท On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

| Controller Division | Finance, Retail & Operations Department | Accounting Reporting Relationship ... Collaborates closely with the People and Culture team to ensure accuracy of compensation and ...

Compensation TypeYearlyHighgate Hotels Highgate is a leading real estate investment and hospitality ... The Controller is responsible for providing consistent leadership in the financial area of the ...

Controller

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$170K - $185K/yr

The controller must exercise independent judgment within established policies and objectives that ... LICENSE/CERTIFICATION * CPA required COMPENSATION : $170,000 - $185,000 + Industry Leading Benefits ...

Controller

Brooklyn, NY ยท On-site

$171K/yr

Controller Museum overview The Brooklyn Museum is a world-renowned cultural institution dedicated ... competitive compensation along with generous benefits and perks for all eligible employees.

Controller

Manhattan, NY

$230K - $250K/yr

The Controller manages and develops a high-performing accounting organization while partnering ... The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $230,000 - $250,000, depending on ...

Controller

Mount Vernon, NY ยท On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

... compensation, and other financial audits. * Act as the accounting lead for the finance systems ... Controller or senior accounting capacity. * Strong background in month-end close, financial ...

Controller

New York, NY ยท On-site +1

$150K - $200K/yr

Controller: Multifamily Property Accounting Location ... New York City (In-Office 4-5 Days/Week) Compensation: $150,000 - $200,000 Base + Bonus Our ...

Compensation TypeYearlyHighgate Hotels Highgate is a leading real estate investment and hospitality ... The Controller is responsible for providing consistent leadership in the financial area of the ...

Controller

New York, NY ยท On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Controller: Multifamily Property Accounting Location ... New York City (In-Office 4-5 Days/Week) Compensation: $150,000 - $200,000 Base + Bonus Our ...

Controller

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

Compensation Type Yearly Highgate Hotels Highgate is a leading real estate investment and ... The Controller is responsible for providing consistent leadership in the financial area of the ...

District Controller

Madison, NJ ยท Remote

$80K - $110K/yr

Compensation Data COMPENSATION: The Salaried rate for this position is $80,000.00 to $110,000.00 ... As the District Controller, you will play a critical leadership role in shaping financial ...

District Controller

Madison, NJ ยท Remote

$80K - $110K/yr

Compensation Data COMPENSATION: The Salaried rate for this position is $80,000.00 to $110,000.00 ... As the District Controller, you will play a critical leadership role in shaping financial ...

Controller

New York, NY ยท On-site +1

$150K - $200K/yr

Controller: Multifamily Property Accounting Location ... New York City (In-Office 4-5 Days/Week) Compensation: $150,000 - $200,000 Base + Bonus Our ...

Showing results 21-40

Compensation Controller information

See New York salary details

$60.2K

$130.7K

$192K

How much do compensation controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for compensation controller in New York is $130,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,100.00 and $151,500.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Compensation Controller jobs in New York? For Compensation Controller jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Compensation Controller jobs in New York look for? The top searched job categories for Compensation Controller jobs in New York are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Compensation Controller jobs? Cities in New York with the most Compensation Controller job openings:
Infographic showing various Compensation Controller job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,733 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

$230K - $250K/yr

Other

Medical

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Position Summary
The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is seeking a Controller who will provide strategic and operational leadership over CFR's accounting, payroll, and accounts receivable/payable functions, ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and compliance of the organization's financial records and reporting. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Controller leads the financial close and reporting cycle, maintains a strong internal control environment, and oversees accounting treatment for grants, cost allocations, and investments.
This role combines technical accounting expertise with people leadership and process improvement responsibilities. The Controller manages and develops a high-performing accounting organization while partnering closely with FP&A, programs, development, and external auditors to support CFR's mission, growth objectives, and financial stewardship.
This full-time position is based in CFR's New York City office four days per week. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are institutional anchor days where all staff are required to be onsite.
Essential Functions/Responsibilities
  • Lead, mentor, and develop teams across Accounting, Payroll, and Accounts Receivable/Payable, fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
  • Oversee the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close and reporting cycles, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with applicable accounting standards.
  • Establish, maintain, and enhance accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls to mitigate financial and operational risk.
  • Ensure accurate recording and reporting of all grant activity, cost allocations, and indirect cost methodologies in alignment with funder requirements and organizational policies.
  • Oversee accounts receivable and accounts payable processes, including revenue recognition, release of restricted funds, segregation of duties, and compliance with CFR policies (e.g., expense policies).
  • Supervise payroll operations, including timekeeping, deductions, benefits-related accounting, and related audits, ensuring accuracy and regulatory compliance.
  • Partner closely with the FP&A Director to ensure strong alignment between accounting actuals, cost allocations, IDC methodologies, analytics, and strategic financing activities.
  • Lead the annual external audit process and oversee preparation of required financial statements, 990, compliance filings, and regulatory reports.
  • Oversee cash and investment accounting and reporting, including review of cash activity, investment transactions, and related financial insights.
  • Champion automation and process improvements across accounting, payroll, and AR/AP systems to improve efficiency, timeliness, and data integrity.
  • Perform any other duties or tasks as assigned or required.

Minimum Qualifications
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required. Master's degree preferred.
  • CPA or equivalent professional certification strongly preferred.

Experience
  • At least 10 years of progressive accounting experience, including leadership responsibility.
  • Demonstrated experience managing and developing accounting, payroll, and AR/AP professionals.
  • Significant experience in nonprofit or grant-based organizations, with strong knowledge of nonprofit accounting standards.
  • Proven track record overseeing financial close, audits, compliance filings, and internal control frameworks.
  • Experience partnering with FP&A and senior leadership to ensure consistency between accounting results and financial planning.

Related Skills & Other Requirements
  • Strong people management skills, including team leadership, coaching, performance management, and talent development.
  • Deep expertise in accounting operations, financial controls, and compliance within a nonprofit or grant-funded environment.
  • Ability to identify and implement process improvements and automation to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across finance and non-finance stakeholders.
  • Advanced technology skills. experience with Microsoft Dynamics preferred.
  • High attention to detail combined with the ability to think strategically and anticipate organizational needs.
  • Strong judgment, integrity, and commitment to CFR's mission and values.

Required Application Materials
Please submit a rรฉsumรฉ and cover letter stating your interest in the position.
Compensation and Benefits
  • The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $230,000 - $250,000, depending on experience.
  • In addition to competitive salaries, the Council on Foreign Relations offers a benefits package that is among the best offered by nonprofit institutions today, including an award-winning health and wellness program, an on-site fitness center, and generous leave policies and health insurance programs.

About CFR
The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is committed to fostering a foreign policy community in the United States that is more representative of American society, recognizing that diverse backgrounds and perspectives contribute to broader, more informed participation in the foreign policy debate and lead to an enhanced understanding of the world and the United States' role therein. To that end, CFR is dedicated to continuing to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout its work and workplace by building a more diverse membership and staff, producing and dispensing thoughtful analysis on a broad range of foreign policy issues, and developing relevant, wide-reaching programming that also serves to expand the foreign policy talent pipeline to underrepresented populations.