Compensation Analyst

We are looking for a Compensation Analyst to join a higher education organization in Newark, New Jersey on a Contract basis. This role focuses on compensation analysis, market pricing, and merit program support while partnering closely with HR and business leaders to maintain fair, accurate, and competitive pay practices. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical skills, advanced Excel capabilities, and experience managing compensation data across complex employee populations.

Responsibilities:

• Perform compensation studies for current and proposed roles by analyzing external market data and internal pay relationships.

• Review position details and assess appropriate salary placement to support consistent job leveling and pay decisions.

• Contribute to salary survey participation and compensation research to help maintain competitive compensation programs.

• Assist with annual merit review activities for union and non-union groups, including data checks and calculation validation.

• Provide support for compensation administration, including salary recommendations, equity analysis, and related program activities.

• Partner with HR team members and department leaders to offer guidance on compensation questions and pay-related decisions.

• Conduct job assessments and classification reviews to support organizational consistency and compensation alignment.

• Prepare and review compensation and demographic reports, ensuring data integrity and actionable analysis.

• Support Workday compensation transactions, reporting needs, and special projects tied to compensation operations.

• At least 3 years of experience in compensation, payroll analysis, or a closely related function.
• Demonstrated background in compensation benchmarking, market pricing, and compensation administration.
• Experience supporting annual merit increase processes across varied employee groups, including union environments.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including PivotTables, XLOOKUP, IF formulas, and complex spreadsheet analysis.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while collaborating effectively with HR professionals and business leaders.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Experience with Workday is preferred but not required.