Compensation Specialist

University of Missouri-Columbia; Columbia Township (MO); On-site; USD 58,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Missouri-Columbia seeks an experienced Senior HR Specialist in Compensation & Classification to serve as a trusted HR resource, guiding department partners through pay structures and job classifications. You will analyze positions, apply established methodologies, and maintain records, tools, and documentation to support timely decisions.

This role emphasizes data-driven analysis, collaboration with HRIS and other support teams, and strong communication with customers to deliver

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience with 3+ years in HR
• Proficient with Microsoft Excel; able to work with large data files from multiple sources
• Ability to create visual presentations of organized data analyses
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills

Responsibilities

• Serve as a trusted HR resource for compensation and classification questions; provide guidance and ensure high customer service
• Manage and coordinate compensation work from intake through completion; organize records and resources
• Analyze positions, evaluate responsibilities, and apply established methodologies for classification and pay placement
• Support compensation projects and continuous improvement efforts; develop knowledge resources and reports

Skills

Excel

Data analysis

Presentation skills

HR knowledge

Attention to detail

Verbal communication

Written communication

Customer service

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

HRIS

Job description

Job Description

We're seeking an HR professional who is organized, customer-focused, and comfortable balancing detailed independent work with collaboration and consultation. Successful candidates are able to analyze information, exercise sound judgment, communicate effectively, and manage multiple priorities. This position is ideal for an HR professional who enjoys equal parts problem solving, customer service, organization, and analytical work.

Hiring Department

Compensation & Classification

Key Areas of Responsibility

Serve as a Trusted HR Resource

Partner with HR leaders, HR professionals, and department stakeholders to answer questions, provide guidance, and help navigate compensation and classification processes. You'll build strong relationships, communicate recommendations, and ensure a high level of customer service throughout each request.

Examples Of This Work Include:

• Responding to inquiries and requests
• Explaining processes and recommendations
• Coordinating with HR partners and stakeholders
• Supporting issue resolution and process questions

Manage And Coordinate Compensation Work

Help ensure compensation and classification requests move efficiently from intake through completion by organizing, tracking, and maintaining key records, documentation, and resources.

Examples Of This Work Include:

• Managing incoming requests and assignments
• Maintaining job and position documentation
• Updating compensation resources and tools
• Preparing meeting materials and communications

Analyze Positions and Make Recommendations

Review position information, evaluate job responsibilities, and apply established guidelines to make recommendations regarding classification and pay structure placement. This work requires critical thinking, sound judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to balance consistency with unique circumstances.

Examples Of This Work Include:

• Reviewing position questionnaires and documentation
• Researching market and internal information
• Evaluating positions using established methodologies
• Documenting findings and recommendations

Support Projects and Continuous Improvement

Contribute to compensation initiatives, maintain knowledge resources, and identify opportunities to improve processes, tools, and the customer experience.

Examples Of This Work Include:

• Supporting compensation projects and initiatives
• Developing training and knowledge resources
• Preparing reports, presentations, and communications
• Coordinating solutions with HRIS and other support teams

Shift

M-F 8-5

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 3 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge and proficiency using Microsoft Excel, and experience working with large data files from multiple sources. Experience creating visual presentations of organized analysis of data. Possesses conceptual knowledge in the HR discipline and works toward broadening capabilities in the area. Demonstrated strong attention to detail, analytical and organizational skills, excellent verbal and written communication and customer service skills.

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary Range: $58,000 - $85,000 annually Grade: GGS-10 University Title: Senior Human Resources Specialist

Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Application Materials

Resume, cover letter

Sponsorship Information

Employment visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Community Information

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours’ drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County’s largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/departments-staff/human-resources/benefits-retirement

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.