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Compensation Management Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The role is highly analytical and technical, with ownership of core compensation processes rather than people management. The ideal candidate brings strong market pricing expertise, experience ...

The role is highly analytical and technical, with ownership of core compensation processes rather than people management. The ideal candidate brings strong market pricing expertise, experience ...

Cross-functional stakeholder management. 2. How critical is prior manufacturing and operations compensation experience, and what aspects of that experience are most important? This role will be ...

Cross-functional stakeholder management. 2. How critical is prior manufacturing and operations compensation experience, and what aspects of that experience are most important?This role will be hybrid ...

Cross-functional stakeholder management. 2. How critical is prior manufacturing and operations compensation experience, and what aspects of that experience are most important? * This role will be ...

The role is highly analytical and technical, with ownership of core compensation processes rather than people management. The ideal candidate brings strong market pricing expertise, experience ...

Cross-functional stakeholder management. 2. How critical is prior manufacturing and operations compensation experience, and what aspects of that experience are most important? * This role will be ...

Cross-functional stakeholder management. 2. How critical is prior manufacturing and operations compensation experience, and what aspects of that experience are most important? * This role will be ...

Cross-functional stakeholder management. 2. How critical is prior manufacturing and operations compensation experience, and what aspects of that experience are most important? * This role will be ...

Sr. Compensation Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$45 - $50/hr

... management 2. How critical is prior manufacturing and operations compensation experience, and what aspects of that experience are most important? This role will be hybrid a large portion will be ...

Lead the design, implementation, and ongoing management of compensation programs, including base pay, incentive plans, and recognition programs, ensuring alignment with business strategy and ...

Lead the design, implementation, and ongoing management of compensation programs, including base pay, incentive plans, and recognition programs, ensuring alignment with business strategy and ...

Program Manager, Compensation

Warrenville, IL ยท On-site

$46.79 - $72.52/hr

Develop resources and training materials to help the compensation team, HR teams and leaders understand compensation programs and policies Market Analysis & Compensation Structure Management * Advise ...

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Compensation Management information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$36.6K

$118.2K

$174.6K

How much do compensation management jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for compensation management in Chicago, IL is $118,189.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,900.00 and $136,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What professions make $500,000 a year?

In compensation management, high earners often include executive-level professionals such as Chief Compensation Officers, HR Directors, and Compensation Consultants, especially those working in large corporations or specialized consulting firms. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications like CCP or SPHR, and strong negotiation and analytical skills. Salaries at this level are usually supplemented with bonuses, stock options, or profit-sharing arrangements.

What is the difference between Compensation Management vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectCompensation ManagementPayroll Specialist
Primary FocusDesigning and managing employee compensation strategies, including salary structures, bonuses, and benefitsProcessing employee wages, ensuring accurate payroll calculations, and compliance with tax laws
Required SkillsCompensation analysis, benefits administration, HR policiesPayroll processing, tax regulations, data entry
Work EnvironmentHR departments, compensation teams, strategic planningPayroll departments, accounting, HR support
CertificationsSPHR, CCP, PHRNone specific, often familiarity with payroll software and tax laws

While Compensation Management focuses on developing and overseeing employee pay structures and benefits, Payroll Specialists handle the day-to-day processing of employee wages and compliance. Both roles are essential in HR and finance departments but serve different functions within employee compensation and payroll operations.

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

In compensation management, high-earning roles such as Chief Compensation Officer or executive-level HR leaders can reach or exceed $1 million annually, especially in large corporations. These positions often require extensive experience, strategic skills, and sometimes performance-based bonuses or stock options. Most roles in this field do not typically reach this level, but top executives in compensation and benefits can earn such compensation packages.

What is the role of compensation management?

Compensation management involves designing and administering employee pay structures, including salaries, bonuses, and benefits, to attract, motivate, and retain talent. It requires understanding market trends, legal compliance, and organizational goals, often utilizing tools like compensation software and data analysis. Effective management ensures fair pay practices and supports overall business strategy.

What do compensation managers do?

Compensation managers develop and oversee salary structures, benefits, and incentive programs to ensure competitive and equitable pay practices. They analyze market data, ensure compliance with regulations, and collaborate with HR and finance teams to align compensation strategies with organizational goals.
Infographic showing various Compensation Management job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,189 per year, or $56.8 per hour.

Senior Compensation Consultant

Suzanne Snell Human Resources & Recruiting

Chicago, IL โ€ข Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

On behalf of our client, we are seeking an experienced Senior Compensation Consultant to lead strategic compensation consulting engagements and partner with organizations to develop innovative rewards programs that attract, retain, and motivate top talent. This hybrid role offers the opportunity to work closely with senior executives and HR leaders while leading complex client engagements and contributing to business growth.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead large-scale compensation consulting engagements from strategy through implementation.
  • Develop compensation philosophies, pay structures, incentive plans, and market pricing strategies aligned with organizational goals.
  • Advise senior leaders on compensation strategy, job architecture, pay competitiveness, and compensation program design.
  • Manage client relationships, serving as a trusted advisor and ensuring exceptional service delivery.
  • Lead project teams by providing coaching, oversight, and mentorship to junior consultants.
  • Identify new business opportunities, expand existing client relationships, and support business development initiatives.
  • Leverage technology and data-driven insights to develop innovative compensation solutions.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Human Resources, Finance, or a related field.
  • 8+ years of compensation consulting, total rewards, or related HR advisory experience.
  • Deep expertise in compensation strategy, incentive plan design, market analysis, and compensation governance.
  • Proven success managing complex consulting engagements and multiple client projects simultaneously.
  • Strong executive presence with exceptional communication, presentation, and relationship management skills.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
  • Analytical mindset with a proactive, solution-oriented approach.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience supporting global organizations with complex compensation programs.
  • Demonstrated success in business development and client growth.
  • Familiarity with compensation management technology, market survey tools, and AI-enabled compensation solutions.
  • Experience developing thought leadership or innovative compensation strategies.

What We Offer

  • Competitive compensation and performance-based incentives.
  • Hybrid work environment with flexibility for in-office collaboration.
  • Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
  • Collaborative, high-performing culture focused on innovation and client success.
  • Opportunity to work on high-impact compensation strategies with leading organizations.