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Compensation Controller Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

The Reserves Network Inc

Controller

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

Controller, Leadership Role | Hybrid/ Remote, Des Moines, IA | $125K-$145K + Benefits A financially ... Strong compensation package and long-term career stability What You'll Be Doing * Lead all ...

City of Des Moines, IA

Comptroller

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$116K - $165K/yr

Finance Division: FN080000 - FN Controller/Accounting Opening Date: 04/17/2026 Closing Date ... Compensation Plan matching up to 2.5% - Voluntary Insurance Benefit Options - Employee Discount ...

City of Des Moines

Comptroller

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$116K - $165K/yr

... Compensation Plan matching up to 2.5% - Voluntary Insurance Benefit Options - Employee Discount Program This position is open until filled, with the next review of applications on June 30, 2026.

Varsity Tutors

MPJE Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Get paid up to twice per week, ensuring fast and reliable compensation for the tutoring sessions ... Skilled at teaching federal versus state pharmacy law comparison, controlled substance regulation ...

Bob Brown Chevrolet

Accounts Receivable Clerk

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

Compensation Hourly compensation is based on experience level and proficiency. Hours include ... Will work directly with the Controller with a goal of professional and personal development ...

Bob Brown Chevrolet

Accounts Receivable Clerk

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

Compensation Hourly compensation is based on experience level and proficiency. Hours include ... Will work directly with the Controller with a goal of professional and personal development ...

Bob Brown Chevrolet

Accounts Receivable Clerk

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

Compensation Hourly compensation is based on experience level and proficiency. Hours include ... Will work directly with the Controller with a goal of professional and personal development ...

Bob Brown Chevrolet

Accounts Receivable Clerk

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

Compensation Hourly compensation is based on experience level and proficiency. Hours include ... Will work directly with the Controller with a goal of professional and personal development ...

Diedre Moire Corp.

Maintenance Technician

Ames, IA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

... Controllers - PLCs • Human Machine Interfaces - HMIs • Digital Displays • Actuators • ... Described compensation is not definite nor precise and may be estimated and approximate and is ...

Just Staffing

Packer

Mitchellville, IA

$17/hr

This position will be based in a climate-controlled manufacturing facility. The work environment ... Compensation and Benefits: This is a temporary-to-hire position with a target pay rate of $17 per ...

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All JobsCompensation Controller JobsCompensation Controller Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Compensation Controller information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$53.7K

$116.6K

$171.3K

How much do compensation controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for compensation controller in Des Moines, IA is $116,619.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,700.00 and $135,200.00 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.

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 Des Moines, IA?

For Compensation Controller jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Compensation Controller jobs in Des Moines, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Compensation Controller jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

Compensation Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Compensation Controller job openings in Des Moines, IA 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 $116,619 per year, or $56.1 per hour.

Controller

Des Moines, IA • On-site, Remote

The Reserves Network Inc
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about The Reserves Network Incexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Controller, Leadership Role | Hybrid/ Remote, Des Moines, IA | $125K–$145K + Benefits

A financially strong, nationally respected insurance organization is seeking an experienced accounting leader to step into a high-impact Controller opportunity open due to an internal promotion. This opportunity offers the chance to join a stable, growth-oriented company known for strong financial performance and long-term employee retention. This opportunity is ideal for experienced Accounting Managers, Senior Accountants ready for leadership, or insurance-focused audit professionals seeking greater strategic involvement, work/life balance, and long-term career advancement within a collaborative environment.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out
• Established, financially stable insurance organization with excellent reputation
• Direct visibility with executive leadership and strategic financial initiatives
• Hybrid/ Remote flexibility with only 1–2 onsite days or fully remote option available
• Opportunity to lead and mentor a growing accounting team
• Strong compensation package and long-term career stability

What You’ll Be Doing
• Lead all financial reporting processes
• Oversee month-end, year-end, and annual close activities
• Manage and supervise general ledger activity, audits, reconciliations, and internal controls
• Supervise and develop a team of 6 accounting team professionals
• Partner with leadership on budgeting, forecasting, and process improvements
• Support ongoing operational and financial growth initiatives

What We’re Looking For
• 4-5+ years of progressive accounting experience
• CPA preferred
• Prior insurance industry experience preferred
• Leadership experience as a Finance or Accounting Supervisor, Manager, or similar role
• Also open to experienced Senior Accountants ready for advancement w/ prior leadership experience
• Strong financial reporting, analytical, and process improvement skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively across departments and leadership teams

Your Career Partner
The Reserves Network, a veteran-founded and family-owned company, specializes in connecting exceptional talent with rewarding opportunities. With extensive industry experience, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your professional goals and shine in your field. The Reserves Network values diversity and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply. As an equal-opportunity employer, we foster an environment of respect, integrity, and trust in every aspect of employment.


Reserves Network logo

About Reserves Network

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Reserves Network is more than a temporary staffing company. We are a leading provider of flexible staffing services, including temporary, temp-to-hire and direct hire placements to create Total Staffing Solutions. We take care of our people - our customers, the communities we serve and, of course, each other. This is what makes us different. This is what makes us great.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Fairview Park, OH, US

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