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Compensation Program Manager Jobs in Columbia, SC

Sr Compensation Analyst

Gaston, SC · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Partner with Senior Manager of Compensation, Talent Acquisition, and Human Resources Business ... programs, including eligibility reviews, calculations, validations, and reporting. * Review and ...

Sr Compensation Analyst

Columbia, SC · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

... programs. Zeus Industrial Products, headquartered in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is the world ... Strong project management skills, ability to meet strict guidelines, and navigate a fast-paced ...

Sr Compensation Analyst

Gaston, SC

$79K - $102K/yr

... programs. Zeus Industrial Products, headquartered in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is the world ... Strong project management skills, ability to meet strict guidelines, and navigate a fast-paced ...

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Compensation Program Manager information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$35.6K

$99.4K

$145.2K

How much do compensation program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for compensation program manager in Columbia, SC is $99,416.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $122,600.00 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 job categories do people searching Compensation Program Manager jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Compensation Program Manager jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Compensation Program Manager jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Compensation Program Manager job openings:
Office Director (Program Manager II) - 60024274

Office Director (Program Manager II) - 60024274

State of South Carolina

West Columbia, SC • Hybrid

$79K - $143K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Responsibilities The mission of the South Carolina Department of Education is to serve students, support teachers, empower parents, and engage the community so that every student graduates prepared to reach their full potential. Job Purpose: Under limited supervision, the general responsibilities of the position encompass the supervision and management of high level, flexible professional teams in the areas of Career and Technology Education, Work-Based Learning opportunities, Education and Economic Development Act, and the appropriate expenditures of state and federal funds. Responsibilities: Provide direction to meet federal and state mandates in Career Technical Education (CTE) in South Carolina by providing direction, leadership, coordination, and vision for Career Technical Education, including programmatic components and business industry partnerships in South Carolina and directing all fiscal, personnel, and professional development activities of the office with documented evidence.

Lead the development, implementation, and management of electronic systems used to disseminate and collect Local Education Agencies (LEA) local plans and progress reports. Provide technical assistance and monitoring of department and district programs to ensure compliance with state, federal and South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) policy and regulations pertaining to CTE. Coordinate State Department of Education Career and Technology Education and work-based learning initiatives with other relevant constituents: districts, business and industry partners, colleges and universities, and other state agencies.

Lead the development and planning of a statewide Career Technical Education Leadership Team (advisory council) for the purpose of evaluating and refining the CTE Program of Study and Career Pathways. Monitor financial and personnel management activities to ensure compliance with state and federal laws, rules, and regulations governing Career and Technical Education. Develop and monitor budget for all state and federal funds flowing through the OCTE.

This includes budget allocations to LEAs, Technical Colleges, and others. Lead state and federal reporting for OCTE to include the strategic plan and state plan. Develop, coordinate, and monitor the performance standards and measures for CTE programs.

Monitor implementation of Economic Education Development Act (EEDA). Perform related job duties as assigned by the deputy or state superintendent. This position is located in the Office of Career Readiness.

Minimum and Additional Requirements A bachelor's degree and relevant program management experience. Preferred Qualifications A bachelor's degree in education or management and six (6) years' experience in career and technology programs (applied technology and career education) and work-based learning initiatives. A master's degree in education or management and eight (8) years' experience in applied technology, career education, and work-based learning initiatives; or comparable education and experience.

Additional Comments As a part of a generous compensation package, we offer comprehensive benefits that include generous paid time off, preeminent health care benefits, professional development opportunities, pension, a 401(k), and a hybrid work schedule with opportunity for remote work. The South Carolina Department of Education offers an exceptional benefits package that includes: Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children. 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year.

15 days sick leave per year. 13 paid holidays. State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs.

ONLY THOSE APPLICANTS CHOSEN FOR AN INTERVIEW WILL BE NOTIFIED BY LETTER THAT THE POSITION HAS BEEN FILLED. http://www.ed.sc.gov/jobs/human-resources/title-ix-nondiscrimination/


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About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

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