Title: Compensation Analyst

Executive Area: Human Resources

College/School/MBU: Human Resources

Department: Human Resources

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Full Time

Work Arrangement: Hybrid or Remote

Job Summary

The Compensation Analyst works as part of a team to administer UMass Amherst’s compensation programs including job design, classification, market pricing, pay analysis and policy application, ensuring alignment with applicable laws and collective bargaining agreements. Consults with campus partners and HR Business Partners on compensation-related matters and supports projects and initiatives.

Essential Functions

Performs job analysis and classification for a wide variety of jobs across job families and bargaining units, applying established guidelines and utilizing internal and external equity factors.

Provides guidance to campus partners on compensation policies and practices, supporting understanding of the University’s classification systems and applicable federal and state requirements. Collaborates with HR Business Partners to support resolution of compensation-related matters for assigned client groups.

Analyzes requests for departmental equity reviews, pay changes, and salary offers, including research and preparation of appropriate internal and external salary data. Identifies potential impact of compensation decisions and escalates complex considerations as appropriate.

Coordinates the classification appeal process for non-exempt employees, ensuring adherence to collective bargaining agreements and applicable state guidelines. Conducts desk audit interviews, documents findings and issues recommendations regarding appropriate job classifications. Communicates classification processes and outcomes to employees and supervisors and participates in appeal hearings as needed.

Supports the administration and continuous improvement of pay programs by identifying process enhancements and efficiencies. Maintains data integrity by entering and auditing position and job-related information within HR systems.

Assists with compensation projects, contributing to activities from conceptualization to implementation.

Designs and delivers compensation training and materials to campus partners. assists in communicating regulatory updates.

Assists in the administration of performance evaluation and annual increase processes. Conducts data preparation and provides implementation support.

Prepares regular and ad hoc compensation reports as needed or requested.

Participates in annual salary surveys, ensuring accuracy and completeness of job matches and data submission.

Other Functions

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and two (2) years of compensation or related analytical experience.

Knowledge of principles, theories and concepts for administering compensation programs, including working knowledge of compensation procedures, best practices, and applicable laws and regulations (Fair Labor Standards Act, Massachusetts Equal Pay Act, etc.).

Highly analytical with the ability to conduct job audits and perform detailed data analyses. Strong technical aptitude and attention to detail.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively with others at various levels of the organization.

Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate difficult conversations effectively.

High level of discretion, tact, and professionalism; capable of maintaining confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications

Professional certification (CCP, SHRM-CP, etc.).

Experience in a unionized environment, preferably in higher education or the public sector.

Familiarity with Massachusetts public sector compensation practices.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a standard office or indoor university environment and involves minimal physical exertion.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Monday through Friday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM.

This position has the opportunity for a hybrid work schedule, which is defined by the University as an arrangement where an employee’s work is regularly performed at a location other than the campus workspace for a portion of the week. As this position is non-unit, it is subject to the terms and conditions of the University of Massachusetts Board of Trustees Non-Unit (Professional/or Classified) Employee Personnel Policy.

This position has the opportunity for a remote work schedule, which is defined by the University as an arrangement where the employee’s work location is to work from a site other than the UMass Amherst campus. As this position is non-unit, it is subject to the terms and conditions of the University of Massachusetts Board of Trustees Non-Unit (Professional/or Classified) Employee Personnel Policy.

Salary Information

Pay Grade: PSSAP Grade 26

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Special Instructions for Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.