Total Rewards Specialist

First Western; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 71,000 - 107,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan with employer match

Paid parking

Comprehensive health benefits

HSA and FSA

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

First Western Trust is seeking a Total Rewards Specialist to design, administer, and execute compensation and benefits programs. You will conduct market research, pay analysis, and job evaluation to ensure competitive and equitable pay practices, while managing core benefits operations and enrollment processes.

The role also covers leave administration, ADA accommodations, audits, and maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements, delivering accurate data and exceptional service to

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, HR, or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in benefits administration, compensation, or related experience.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret compensation and market data.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Office tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion.
• SHRM-CP or PHR within 180 days of hire preferred.
• CCP/CBP or similar in 2 years preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee benefit programs and vendor relationships.
• Design, administer, and maintain compensation programs, including pay structures and guidelines.
• Conduct market analysis, compensation research, and pay equity assessments.
• Manage new hire and promotion pay rate recommendations and related tools.
• Coordinate the annual merit cycle with data accuracy and communication.
• Lead benefit enrollment processes for new hires and open enrollment.
• Perform payroll audits and approvals for pay and benefits transactions.
• Maintain/update job descriptions and job architecture processes.
• Serve as primary contact for leave of absence and ADA accommodations.
• Support internal and external audits with required documentation.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Discretion with confidential info

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business/HR or related field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Salary: $71,000 - $107,000/YR *Actual offer will be based on experience, location, education, and/or skills*

Applications should be submitted for consideration no later than 08/31/2026.

Who We’re Looking For

You’re a detail-oriented Total Rewards professional who enjoys blending analytical work with associate-facing support. You bring a strong understanding of compensation and benefits programs and take pride in delivering accurate, equitable, and competitive rewards. You’re comfortable managing sensitive information, working across teams, and serving as a trusted resource for associates. If you enjoy supporting pay equity, benefits administration, and compliance while providing excellent service, this role is for you.

About the Role

The Total Rewards Specialist supports the design, administration, and execution of First Western Trust’s compensation and benefits programs. This role conducts market research, pay analysis, and job evaluation activities to ensure competitive and equitable pay practices. You will also manage core benefits operations, oversee enrollment processes, and serve as a key resource for leave administration and ADA accommodations. The position plays a critical role in maintaining compliance, supporting audit readiness, and ensuring that Total Rewards programs are delivered with accuracy, consistency, and exceptional service.

What You’ll Do

• Oversee benefit programs and vendor relationships, ensuring offerings remain competitive and aligned with organizational needs.


• Design, administer, and maintain compensation programs, including developing and communicating pay structures, job architecture, and compensation guidelines.


• Conduct market analysis, compensation research, and pay equity assessments to ensure competitiveness and compliance with regulatory requirements.


• Manage new hire and promotion pay rate recommendations, including oversight of role-based grid (range-based guidelines) and related compensation tools.


• Coordinate and administer the annual merit cycle, ensuring accuracy of data, workflows, and communications.


• Lead benefit enrollment processes for new hires and annual open enrollment, including employee education and support.


• Perform compensation and benefits related payroll audits and approvals to ensure accurate processing of pay and benefit transactions.


• Maintain and update job descriptions and support job evaluation and job architecture processes.


• Serve as the primary point of contact for leave of absence administration and ADA accommodation coordination, ensuring compliance and a positive associate experience.


• Support internal and external audits by preparing required documentation, reports, and compliance records.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Human Resources, or related field (required).


• 3–5 years of experience in benefits administration, compensation, or related experience (required).


• Strong analytical skills with ability to interpret compensation and market data.


• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Office tools.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.


• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.


• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion.


• SHRM-CP or PHR within 180 days of hire preferred.


• Certified Compensation Professional (CCP), Certified Benefits Professional (CBP), or similar within 2 years of hire preferred.

What We Offer

• 401(k) plan with employer match.


• Paid parking and transportation benefits.


• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including:
  
  
  
  • Health savings accounts (HSA)
  
  
  • Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
  
  
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  
  
  
  


• Generous paid time off and bank holidays.


• Access to training and professional development programs.


• Sponsorship and support for obtaining professional certifications.


• A culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and shared success.

First Western Trust is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace where every team member is valued and given the opportunity to thrive. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. For accommodation requests, please contact [e-mail].