1

Compensation Controller Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Controller

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Controller (association/nonprofit) Renowned Nonprofit in the Northern Virginia region is adding a ... Capable of adding value to and improving efficiencies Compensation & Culture * $170,000 - $190,000 ...

Controller

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Controller (association/nonprofit) Renowned Nonprofit in the Northern Virginia region is adding a ... Capable of adding value to and improving efficiencies Compensation & Culture * $170,000 - $190,000 ...

Controller

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Controller (association/nonprofit) Renowned Nonprofit in the Northern Virginia region is adding a ... Capable of adding value to and improving efficiencies Compensation & Culture * $170,000 - $190,000 ...

Controller

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Controller (association/nonprofit) Renowned Nonprofit in the Northern Virginia region is adding a ... Capable of adding value to and improving efficiencies Compensation & Culture * $170,000 - $190,000 ...

Controller

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Controller (association/nonprofit) Renowned Nonprofit in the Northern Virginia region is adding a ... Capable of adding value to and improving efficiencies Compensation & Culture * $170,000 - $190,000 ...

Controller

Virginia Beach, VA ยท Hybrid

$164K - $285K/yr

As the Controller, you will: * Provide leadership to the accounting team, including coaching ... Competitive compensation and a total rewards package that focuses on all aspects of your wellbeing

Controller

Richmond, VA ยท Hybrid

$164K - $285K/yr

As the Controller, you will: * Provide leadership to the accounting team, including coaching ... Competitive compensation and a total rewards package that focuses on all aspects of your wellbeing

Controller

Tysons Corner, VA ยท Hybrid

$164K - $285K/yr

As the Controller, you will: * Provide leadership to the accounting team, including coaching ... Competitive compensation and a total rewards package that focuses on all aspects of your wellbeing

Controller

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$165K/yr

Plant Controller Bensley, VA Permanent | On-Site Full Relocation Assistance Available We are ... preferred Compensation: $155,000-$165,000 base salary Bonus: 15%+ annual bonus opportunity ...

Be Seen First

Controller Atlantic Foundations Atlantic Foundations is seeking an experienced Controller to lead ... Ensure accurate employee compensation and benefits reporting * Support Human Resources with ...

Controller

Hampton, VA ยท On-site

Controller Atlantic Foundations Atlantic Foundations is seeking an experienced Controller to lead ... Ensure accurate employee compensation and benefits reporting * Support Human Resources with ...

Be Seen First

Controller Atlantic Foundations Atlantic Foundations is seeking an experienced Controller to lead ... Ensure accurate employee compensation and benefits reporting * Support Human Resources with ...

Controller

Hampton, VA ยท On-site

Controller Atlantic Foundations Atlantic Foundations is seeking an experienced Controller to lead ... Ensure accurate employee compensation and benefits reporting * Support Human Resources with ...

Be Seen First

Controller Atlantic Foundations Atlantic Foundations is seeking an experienced Controller to lead ... Ensure accurate employee compensation and benefits reporting * Support Human Resources with ...

Be Seen First

Controller Atlantic Foundations Atlantic Foundations is seeking an experienced Controller to lead ... Ensure accurate employee compensation and benefits reporting * Support Human Resources with ...

Be Seen First

Controller Atlantic Foundations Atlantic Foundations is seeking an experienced Controller to lead ... Ensure accurate employee compensation and benefits reporting * Support Human Resources with ...

Be Seen First

Controller Atlantic Foundations Atlantic Foundations is seeking an experienced Controller to lead ... Ensure accurate employee compensation and benefits reporting * Support Human Resources with ...

CONTROLLER

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$135K - $185K/yr

The Controller will be responsible for planning and overseeing the accounting team to support our ... Compensation: $135,000.00 - $185,000.00 per year About Us BlueStreet is a leading provider of ...

Senior Compensation Specialist

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Controller Management Duties: None Compensation: $90,000-$105,000 annually Position Overview The Senior Compensation Specialist is a key member of the HR and Accounting teams responsible for ...

Senior Compensation Specialist

Herndon, VA ยท Hybrid

$90K - $105K/yr

Controller Management Duties: None Compensation: $90,000-$105,000 annually Position Overview The Senior Compensation Specialist is a key member of the HR and Accounting teams responsible for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Compensation Controller information

See Virginia salary details

$54.5K

$118.5K

$174K

How much do compensation controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for compensation controller in Virginia is $118,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,200.00 and $137,300.00 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.

What job categories do people searching Compensation Controller jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Compensation Controller jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Compensation Controller jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Compensation Controller job openings:
Controller

Controller

Cherry Bekaert

Mclean, VA โ€ข On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Controller (association/nonprofit)
Renowned Nonprofit in the Northern Virginia region is adding a talented, multi-faceted Controller to its Finance Team.
This particular opportunity is hybrid in nature, in-office three (3) days per week.
The Opportunity
The Controller will manage and help develop the existing accounting team, advance ERP system optimization, and partner with the Chief Financial Officer and executive leadership to resolve complex accounting issues and support strategic decisionmaking. The Controller will lead accounting and financial reporting operations while ensuring accurate compliant and timely financial results. This role oversees general ledger integrity, reconciliations, journal entries, and documentation while driving standardization, internal controls, and process improvement across the organization.
Role Scope
  • Direct daily general ledger and financial reporting activities, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
  • Manage the Assistant Controller, A/R Manager, A/P Manager, and indirectly oversee a sizeable accounting team
  • Review general ledger activity, reconciliations, journal entries, and supporting documentation to maintain strong internal controls and highquality financial data.
  • Monitor and update accounting policies, processes, and procedures to ensure they remain current and effective, updating and restructuring documentation and controls as needed to maintain accuracy and compliance.
  • Assist with the preparation of materials for the Board, annual audit of financial statements and employee benefit plans, multiple tax filings, quarterly omnibus submission and executive reviews
  • Support compliance with the Cooperative Agreement including the development of work packages and quarterly reporting
  • Provide assistance to the Board of Director's Audit and Finance Committees
  • Assist the Finance leadership team with development of the annual budget as necessary

Preferred Qualifications
  • Active CPA or CPA path is preferred
  • 8-10+ years of accounting experience required
  • Management experience with 4-5 direct reports (10-15 indirect) is required
  • Nonprofit or Association industry experience is required
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build and maintain relationships
  • Capable of adding value to and improving efficiencies

Compensation & Culture
  • $170,000 - $190,000 base salary (depending on experience offered)
  • Discretionary bonus offered
  • Incredibly attractive retirement plan
  • Highly attractive benefits to include PTO, sick and competitive coverage plans

IND4