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Compensation Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Program Manager III

Poway, CA · On-site

$112K - $205K/yr

This position reports to a senior program manager and is responsible for elements of support to our ... This position is eligible for the Individual Compensation Program (ICP) bonus. * This position is ...

Program Manager II

Poway, CA · On-site

$90K - $162K/yr

Tasks include the management of material, equipment / parts, logistics, maintenance, training ... This position is eligible for the Individual Compensation Program (ICP) bonus. * This position is ...

Program Manager III

Poway, CA · On-site

$112K - $205K/yr

Manages programs which have well defined program plans and delivery methodologies. Leads all phases ... This position is eligible for the Individual Compensation Program (ICP) bonus. * This position is ...

Compensation Consultant

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$90K - $95K/yr

Analyze, design and administer the organization's compensation program. * Monitors the ... Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize as necessary and leverage resources throughout the ...

Program Manager III

Poway, CA · On-site

$112K - $205K/yr

Manages programs which require the development of well-defined program plans and delivery ... This position is eligible for the Individual Compensation Program (ICP) bonus. * This position is ...

Manage Compensation programs, such as participating in benchmarking and surveys, to calibrate and maintain Brex's market positioning * Oversee annual merit cycle to ensure pay parity and competitive ...

Program Manager III

Poway, CA · On-site

$112K - $205K/yr

Manage all phases of the program(s) from conceptualization through completion, including ... This position is eligible for the Individual Compensation Program (ICP) bonus. * This position is ...

Role and Responsibilities: 1. Compensation Strategy & Program Management * Support the development and refinement of compensation strategies in alignment with company goals and market practices.

Senior Compensation Manager

Livermore, CA · On-site

$179K - $228K/yr

Role and Responsibilities: 1. Compensation Strategy & Program Management * Support the development and refinement of compensation strategies in alignment with company goals and market practices.

Program Manager III

Poway, CA · On-site

$112K - $205K/yr

Manages programs which have defined program plans and delivery methodologies. Leads all phases of ... This position is eligible for the Individual Compensation Program (ICP) bonus. * This position is ...

Program Manager III

Poway, CA · On-site

$112K - $205K/yr

Manages programs which have defined program plans and delivery methodologies. Leads all phases of ... This position is eligible for the Individual Compensation Program (ICP) bonus. * This position is ...

Program Manager

Brea, CA · On-site

$76K - $80K/yr

Program Manager Benefits: Gexpro Services offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes ... Competitive compensation plus annual bonus * Flexible work schedule, currently hybrid because of ...

Compensation Supervisor

Irvine, CA · On-site

$136K - $170K/yr

If you are energized by market analysis, job architecture, compensation program design, cross ... Supporting the Department Manager of Compensation in implementing department strategy by ...

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Showing results 1-20

Compensation Program Manager information

See California salary details

$36.3K

$109.7K

$172.7K

How much do compensation program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for compensation program manager in California is $109,655.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,600.00 and $141,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a compensation program manager?

A compensation program manager is a professional responsible for designing, implementing, and managing employee compensation strategies, including salary structures, bonuses, and benefits. They analyze market data, ensure pay equity, and often use compensation management tools to align pay practices with company goals and compliance standards.

How does a Compensation Program Manager typically collaborate with HR and business leaders to ensure competitive and equitable pay practices?

Compensation Program Managers work closely with HR teams and business leaders to design, review, and adjust pay structures that align with organizational goals and market trends. They often facilitate discussions to ensure internal equity and external competitiveness, interpret compensation data, and provide guidance on pay decisions. Regular collaboration includes analyzing job roles, benchmarking salaries, and ensuring compliance with legal regulations. These cross-functional partnerships are essential for developing compensation programs that attract and retain top talent while maintaining fairness and transparency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Compensation Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Compensation Program Manager, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of compensation strategies, and typically a bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Finance, or a related field. Familiarity with HRIS systems, market pricing tools like PayScale or Radford, and certifications such as CCP (Certified Compensation Professional) are highly valued. Exceptional communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills help you navigate complex pay structures and influence stakeholders. These capabilities are essential to ensure competitive, equitable, and compliant compensation programs that attract and retain top talent.

What is the difference between Compensation Program Manager vs Compensation Analyst?

AspectCompensation Program 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 EnvironmentStrategic planning, program development, cross-department collaborationData analysis, salary surveys, reporting, and policy implementation
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in HR departments across various industries for managing compensation programsCommonly found in HR teams focusing on salary structures and data analysis

The Compensation Program Manager focuses on designing and managing compensation strategies and programs, while the Compensation Analyst primarily analyzes salary data and supports compensation policies. Both roles require similar credentials and are integral to HR teams, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What does a compensation manager do?

A compensation manager develops and manages salary structures, incentive programs, and benefits to ensure competitive and equitable pay practices within an organization. They analyze market data, ensure compliance with regulations, and collaborate with HR and leadership to align compensation strategies with company goals. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of compensation tools are essential for this role.

What does a Compensation Program Manager do?

A Compensation Program Manager is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing an organization's compensation strategies and programs. This role ensures that employee salaries, bonuses, and benefits are competitive, compliant with legal requirements, and aligned with the company's business goals. Compensation Program Managers analyze market data, develop salary structures, and work closely with HR and leadership to attract and retain top talent. They also evaluate the effectiveness of compensation programs and recommend improvements as needed.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, Compensation Program Managers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive roles like CEOs, investment bankers, or specialized surgeons. High compensation in these roles often depends on experience, industry, company size, and performance bonuses. Senior-level positions in finance, technology, or healthcare may reach or exceed this level with bonuses and stock options.

What job makes $1,000,000 a year?

In the field of compensation program management, earning $1,000,000 annually is uncommon and typically associated with executive-level roles such as Chief Compensation Officer or other C-suite positions in large corporations. These roles often include performance bonuses, stock options, and other incentives that can significantly increase total compensation. Most compensation managers earn a median salary well below this figure, with top executives reaching higher earnings through additional compensation packages.
What are popular job titles related to Compensation Program Manager jobs in California? For Compensation Program Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Compensation Program Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Compensation Program Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Compensation Program Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Compensation Program Manager job openings:
Manager, Total Rewards - Compensation, Variable & Equity

Manager, Total Rewards - Compensation, Variable & Equity

Qcells

San Francisco, CA

$139K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Qcells rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

POSITION DESCRIPTION: 

Are you passionate about building competitive, data-driven total rewards programs that support a mission-driven organization shaping tomorrow’s future? We are seeking an experienced Manager, Total Rewards who is responsible for the design, administration, and governance of the company’s compensation programs. While this role has primary accountability for incentive compensation programs, it also plays a broad role in managing base pay structures, job architecture, market pricing, and annual compensation processes. The position ensures compensation programs are competitive, equitable, compliant, and aligned with the organization’s talent and business strategies. This position reports directly to the Head of HR for G&ES Business Division. 

RESPONSIBILITIES
Compensation Strategy & Program Management
  • Support the development and ongoing management of the company’s overall compensation philosophy and strategy
  • Design, implement, and administer incentive compensation programs that drive performance and align with business objectives
  • Support the administration of base salary structures, pay ranges, job leveling, and job architecture frameworks
  • Conduct market pricing and benchmarking to ensure external competitiveness and internal equity
  • Partner with HR leaders on compensation decisions related to hiring, promotions, transfers, and retention
Incentive Compensation Administration
  • Lead the design, documentation, and governance of incentive and variable pay plans
  • Manage incentive plan modeling, calculations, validation, and payout processes
  • Maintain incentive compensation systems and tools; ensure data accuracy and system integrity
  • Prepare incentive plan communications, training materials, and participant support resources
  • Analyze incentive program effectiveness, cost, and performance outcomes; provide recommendations for improvement
Annual Compensation Processes
  • Support annual merit, bonus, and incentive planning cycles, including budgeting, modeling, and execution
  • Partner with Finance to ensure accurate compensation forecasting, accruals, and spend management
  • Provide guidance and analysis to leaders during compensation review and planning cycles
Governance, Compliance & Analytics
  • Develop and maintain compensation policies, guidelines, and governance documentation
  • Ensure compensation programs comply with applicable laws, regulations, and internal controls
  • Conduct audits, reconciliations, and reviews to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance
  • Prepare compensation analytics, dashboards, and reports for leadership and HR stakeholders
  • Identify opportunities to streamline processes, improve tools, and enhance compensation program scalability
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field
  • 6+ years of progressive experience in compensation, total rewards, or incentive compensation
  • Experience supporting SaaScompany using subscription-based variable compensation or other high-growth industries.
  • Strong working knowledge of compensation principles, market pricing, and incentive plan design
  • Experience with compensation and HR systems; advanced Excel and analytical skills
  • Ability to manage complex data and provide clear, actionable recommendations
  • Strong communication, collaboration, and influencing skills
  • High level of discretion, attention to detail, and sound judgment
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience supporting SaaScompany using subscription-based variable compensation or other high-growth industries.
  • CCP (Certified Compensation Professional) certification or progress toward certification
  • Experience supporting performance-driven or sales organizations
  • Familiarity with incentive compensation management platforms
  • Experience in a multi-location or global environment
 
Hanwha Q CELLS America Inc. (“HQCA”) is a Qcells company, one of the world’s largest manufacturers and providers of solar photovoltaic (PV) products and solutions.  Headquartered in Irvine, California, HQCA has been rapidly expanding its business in North America through the expansion of products and solutions, including distributed energy solutions, direct-to-homeowner solar sales and financing, and EPC services.  We provide an opportunity to be part of an exciting and growing world-class global business in an interesting and expanding industry of the future.
 
PHYSICAL, MENTAL & ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS: 
To comply with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 the essential physical, mental and environmental requirements for this job are listed below. These are requirements normally expected to perform regular job duties. Incumbent must be able to successfully perform all of the functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.  
Mobility 
Standing 
20% of time  
Sitting 
70% of time  
Walking 
10% of time  
Strength 
Pulling 
up to 10 Pounds  
Pushing 
up to 10 Pounds  
Carrying 
up to 10 Pounds  
Lifting 
up to 10 Pounds  
Dexterity (F = Frequently, O = Occasionally, N = Never) 
Typing 
Handling 
Reaching 
Agility (F = Frequently, O = Occasionally, N = Never) 
Turning 
Twisting 
Bending 
Crouching 
Balancing 
Climbing 
Crawling 
Kneeling 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

The salary range is required by the California Pay Transparency Act and may differ depending on the location of those candidates hired nationwide. Actual compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to, skill set, education, licenses and certifications, essential job duties and requirements, and the necessary experience relative to the job’s minimum qualifications.

*This target salary range is for CA positions only and should not be interpreted as an offer of compensation.

You may view your privacy rights by reviewing Qcells' Privacy Policy or by contacting our HR team for a copy.

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