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Compensation Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Resource 1 is seeking an experienced Compensation Manager to provide day-to-day leadership of compensation programs for a large university. This role will manage operational compensation activities ...

The Compensation Manager partners closely with HR Business Partners, Finance, and senior leadership to provide data-driven insights and recommendations that support total rewards strategy and ...

Compensation Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

We are seeking a highly analytical and dynamic Compensation Manager to serve as a key driver across both broad-based corporate compensation and sales incentive design. In this role, you will operate ...

Manage compensation related projects, as assigned. Qualifications/Requirements * Bachelor's degree is required, focus on Human Resources preferred * 5+ years of compensation experience * 3+ years of ...

New

We are seeking a highly analytical and dynamic Compensation Manager to serve as a key driver across both broad-based corporate compensation and sales incentive design. In this role, you will operate ...

Stefanini is looking for a Compensation Manager in Chicago, IL (Hybrid) For quick apply, please reach out to Johvie Cuan Call: +1 (248) 582-6508 / Email: Johvie.Cuan@stefanini.com Open for W2 ...

Stefanini is looking for a Compensation Manager in Chicago, IL (Hybrid) For quick apply, please reach out to Johvie Cuan Call: +1 (248) 582-6508 / Email: Johvie.Cuan@stefanini.com Open for W2 ...

Stefanini is looking for a Compensation Manager in Chicago, IL (Hybrid) For quick apply, please reach out to Johvie Cuan Call: +1 (248) 582-6508 / Email: Johvie.Cuan@stefanini.com Open for W2 ...

Stefanini is looking for a Compensation Manager in Chicago, IL (Hybrid) For quick apply, please reach out to Johvie Cuan Call: +1 (248) 582-6508 / Email: Johvie.Cuan@stefanini.com Open for W2 ...

Stefanini is looking for a Compensation Manager in Chicago, IL (Hybrid) For quick apply, please reach out to Johvie Cuan Call: +1 / Email: Open for W2 candidates only! Work Location: 200 E Randolph ...

Sr Compensation Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$50 - $54/hr

Job Title: Sr. Compensation Manager Location: Chicago, IL 60601 Job Summary: * We are seeking a Sr. Compensation Manager to lead compensation strategy and programs across North America Operations and ...

Senior Compensation Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

About This Role We're looking for a Senior Compensation Manager to lead compensation strategy and operations for the firm. This role owns the day-to-day design, analysis, and administration of our ...

Senior Compensation Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

About This Role We're looking for a Senior Compensation Manager to lead compensation strategy and operations for the firm. This role owns the day-to-day design, analysis, and administration of our ...

Be Seen First

* The Sr. Manager, Compensation will play a critical role in driving compensation strategy and decision-making across North America Operations and Procurement. * Reporting to the Director of North ...

New

Manager, Compensation

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Who you are Metropolis is seeking a Compensation Manager to serve as a strategic compensation partner supporting both our Operations and Growth organizations. This hybrid role bridges two critical ...

Who you are Metropolis is seeking a Compensation Manager to serve as a strategic compensation partner supporting both our Operations and Growth organizations. This hybrid role bridges two critical ...

New

Who you are Metropolis is seeking a Compensation Manager to serve as a strategic compensation partner supporting both our Operations and Growth organizations. This hybrid role bridges two critical ...

New

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Showing results 1-20

Compensation Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$36.6K

$118.2K

$174.6K

How much do compensation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for compensation manager 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 is a compensation manager?

A compensation manager is part of a corporate HR team which researches and develops the pay policies in a company. They use research to help determine fair pay scales for all the company employees. Duties include helping the business with recruiting and integrating new employees. At a small company, they might be responsible for all aspects of the pay system, while at a larger company they may have specific responsibilities, such as doing market research or surveying workers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a compensation manager?

To thrive as a Compensation Manager, you need expertise in compensation analysis, benefits administration, and compliance, often supported by a degree in human resources or business and relevant certifications such as CCP (Certified Compensation Professional). Familiarity with HRIS systems, data analytics tools, and compensation benchmarking software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you design competitive pay structures and collaborate with stakeholders. These skills ensure fair, data-driven compensation practices that support employee satisfaction and organizational goals.

What are some common challenges compensation managers face when designing competitive pay structures?

Compensation Managers often navigate the challenge of balancing internal equity, market competitiveness, and budget constraints when designing pay structures. They must ensure that compensation packages attract and retain top talent while staying compliant with regulations and maintaining fairness across the organization. Additionally, Compensation Managers regularly analyze market data, manage employee expectations, and collaborate with HR and leadership to support organizational goals. These complexities require strong analytical skills, communication, and the ability to adapt to changing market trends.

What is the difference between Compensation Manager vs Compensation Analyst?

AspectCompensation ManagerCompensation Analyst
CredentialsBachelor's degree, often HR or Business; certifications like CCP or CBPBachelor's degree in HR, Business, or related; certifications like CCP beneficial
Work EnvironmentOversees compensation strategies, manages teams, collaborates with HR leadershipAnalyzes salary data, prepares reports, supports compensation programs
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large organizations across various industriesCommon in HR departments, especially in finance, healthcare, and tech sectors

The Compensation Manager focuses on developing and managing overall compensation strategies, policies, and team leadership. In contrast, the Compensation Analyst primarily conducts data analysis, prepares reports, and supports compensation program implementation. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in scope and responsibilities within the compensation function.

What degree do you need to be a compensation manager?

A compensation manager typically needs a bachelor's degree in human resources, business administration, finance, or a related field. Many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree or professional certifications such as the Certified Compensation Professional (CCP). Relevant skills include data analysis, knowledge of compensation laws, and experience with HR software.

What are the most commonly searched types of Compensation jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Compensation jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Compensation Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Compensation Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Compensation Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Compensation Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Compensation Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Compensation Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Compensation Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $118,189 per year, or $56.8 per hour.

Compensation Manager

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Resource 1 is seeking an experienced Compensation Manager to provide day-to-day leadership of compensation programs for a large university. This role will manage operational compensation activities while supporting the organization''s transition to a new job architecture and leveling framework.

The ideal candidate is a strong, hands-on compensation professional who is highly organized, comfortable managing a high-volume environment, and able to work independently with HR leaders and business stakeholders.

Responsibilities

  • Manage day-to-day compensation activities, including promotions, salary changes, title changes, and job changes.
  • Develop and maintain compensation structures, salary ranges, and frameworks.
  • Review compensation requests and provide recommendations to HR leadership and university stakeholders.
  • Support departments and business units as they adopt the new job architecture and leveling model.
  • Provide follow-up and ongoing support related to job architecture implementation.
  • Manage and develop one Compensation Analyst.
  • Support compensation projects, process improvements, and other initiatives as needed.

Qualifications

  • Strong experience in compensation management and administration.
  • Experience developing and maintaining compensation structures and salary frameworks.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills.
  • Ability to manage a high-volume, process-driven compensation environment.
  • Strong communication and stakeholder-management skills.
  • Experience working with an HCM platform such as Workday, SuccessFactors, PeopleSoft, or similar systems.
  • Ability to operate independently and provide sound compensation recommendations.

Higher education or nonprofit experience is a plus, but not required.

Medical insurance and a 401(k) plan is offered to all eligible W2 employees.