Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
Compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialists develop and manage pay structures, benefits programs, and job classifications for employers. They work in human resources departments across various industries, analyzing positions, conducting market research on salaries, and designing compensation packages. These specialists ensure organizations maintain competitive and equitable pay systems.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves reviewing job descriptions and salary data, meeting with department managers about position classifications, and analyzing market rates for different roles. Specialists might conduct employee surveys about benefits preferences, prepare compensation reports for leadership, or update pension program documentation. Administrative tasks include maintaining benefits databases and ensuring compliance with compensation policies and regulations.
Who this work suits
Holland code CES. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer structured work with clear procedures and measurable outcomes. You're comfortable with both detailed analysis and strategic business discussions, enjoying the challenge of designing systems that balance organizational budgets with employee fairness. You're detail-oriented and enjoy using data to solve business problems.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | $74,010 | $99,560 | $119,520 | 290 |
| Massachusetts | $76,530 | $95,890 | $125,730 | 3,390 |
| Colorado | $76,800 | $92,560 | $120,330 | 1,980 |
| California | $73,790 | $91,410 | $117,240 | 13,430 |
| District of Columbia | $74,730 | $86,710 | $106,250 | 650 |
| Washington | $78,610 | $86,630 | $107,840 | 3,350 |
| New Jersey | $68,080 | $85,040 | $112,060 | 3,150 |
| New Mexico | $66,840 | $83,540 | $106,200 | 340 |
| Oregon | $69,220 | $83,320 | $101,190 | 1,330 |
| New York | $69,450 | $83,200 | $103,320 | 11,470 |
| Connecticut | $66,620 | $83,100 | $107,190 | 1,140 |
| Virginia | $63,510 | $81,190 | $102,850 | 3,500 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Flexible Compensation Specialist (FCS) — Employers Council on Flexible Compensation
- Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) — International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans
- Certified in Flexible Compensation (CFC) — Employers Council on Flexible Compensation
- Certified COBRA Administration Specialist (CAS) — Employers Council on Flexible Compensation
- Health Savings Account Specialist (HSAS) — Employers Council on Flexible Compensation
- Fundamentals in Group Benefits (FGB) — International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
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Four short assessments and your background, scored against compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-1141.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.