ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Compensation Controller Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Talent Edge

Construction Controller

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

About the Company Were hiring an experienced Director of Finance / Controller to lead financial ... compensation package * Competitive salary: $130,000 $170,000 DOE * Full benefits: healthcare, ...

Domtar

Mill Controller - Nekoosa Mill

Nekoosa, WI · On-site

We are proud to offer competitive compensation, a supportive working environment, rewarding career ... The Mill Controller reports directly to the Director of Finance and functionally reports to the ...

Domtar

Mill Controller - Nekoosa Mill

Nekoosa, WI

We are proud to offer competitive compensation, a supportive working environment, rewarding career ... The Mill Controller reports directly to the Director of Finance and functionally reports to the ...

Plexus Corp.

Controller

Neenah, WI · On-site

$129K - $194K/yr

The annual compensation range for this position is stated below. The salary offered within this range will be based upon the geographic location, work experience, education, licensure requirements ...

Harley-Davidson

Assistant Plant Controller

Tomahawk, WI · On-site

Assistant Plant Controller Job Function: Finance Location: TOMAHAWK Company: Harley-Davidson Motor ... We offer an inclusive compensation package for all full-time salaried employees including, but not ...

Harley-Davidson

Assistant Plant Controller

Tomahawk, WI · On-site

Assistant Plant Controller Job Function: Finance Location: TOMAHAWK Company: Harley-Davidson Motor ... We offer an inclusive compensation package for all full-time salaried employees including, but not ...

Canteen

OPERATIONS CONTROLLER - APPLETON, WI

Appleton, WI · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

OPERATIONS CONTROLLER Pay Grade: 14 Salary: $80,000 - $85,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Bonus Potential Growth. Opportunity. Excellence. Canteen brings break time to everyone. We combine ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCompensation Controller JobsCompensation Controller Jobs in Wisconsin

Compensation Controller information

See Wisconsin salary details

$55.5K

$120.6K

$177.1K

How much do compensation controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for compensation controller in Wisconsin is $120,614.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,900.00 and $139,800.00 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 are popular job titles related to Compensation Controller jobs in Wisconsin? For Compensation Controller jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Compensation Controller jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Compensation Controller jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Compensation Controller jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Compensation Controller job openings:
Compensation Controller jobs near you

Construction Controller

Talent Edge

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Salary:


About the Company

Were hiring an experienced Director of Finance / Controller to lead financial strategy and operations for a longstanding Midwest civil construction firm with 80+ years of industry credibility and a tightly knit, family culture.

About the Role

Youll step into a critical leadership role focused on owning financial operations, driving accuracy and controls across accounting and reporting, and partnering with executive leadership to support growth and operational excellence. This role reports to the CEO and sits on the leadership team, helping shape financial planning, budgeting, audit success, and joblevel performance for projects ranging from $500K$2.5M across multiple Midwestern states.

Responsibilities

  • Lead full cycle finance, accounting, monthend close, and financial reporting
  • Manage daily cash flow, forecasts, and financial controls
  • Oversee annual audit process and compliance
  • Drive job costing, Work In Progress (WIP) analysis, ERP transitions, and improvements
  • Supervise and develop accounting team (AP, AR, payroll, tax, reporting)
  • Partner with CEO and leadership on budgeting, strategy, and financial modeling
  • Own GL, reconciliations, and accuracy for internal and external reporting
  • Contribute to leadership decisionmaking via insightful financial analysis and forecasting

Qualifications

  • Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or equivalent professional experience

Required Skills

  • 10+ years accounting & finance experience
  • Construction industry experience required
  • Strong background in monthend close, GL, reconciliations, audit readiness, and cash management
  • Experience with job costing, WIP, and leading finance teams
  • ERP transition and systems experience highly desirable
  • Familiarity with civil construction, utilities, horizontal drilling, or similar project environments a plus
  • Collaborative leader with excellent communication skills and integrity
  • Demonstrated ability to thrive in a smallteam, supportive environment
  • Familiarity or willing to adapt to EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System)

Pay range and compensation package

  • Competitive salary: $130,000 $170,000 DOE
  • Full benefits: healthcare, vision, dental, HRA contributions
  • 401(k) / retirement planning benefits
  • Paid Holidays + generous PTO vacation schedule increasing with tenure
  • Paid sick days and worklife balance support
  • Stable 8am5pm schedule with flex hours, typically ~4050 hrs/week
  • Meaningfulgrowth opportunity toward CFO as the company scales
  • Be part of a 4thgeneration, familyoriented culture where most team members have tenures of 10+ years!

Equal Opportunity Statement

Note: This is an onsite role (not remote). Open to relocation to Sheboygan, WI.

The company will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.

If you have accounting leadership experience in a construction environment, we welcome your application!