We are seeking a Compensation Manager to lead the firm’s compensation function, with primary responsibility for salary administration, governance, and decision support. This role partners closely with firm leadership to shape and maintain a compensation approach that is competitive, equitable, and aligned with business priorities—while remaining closely involved in execution.

This is a hands-on role that balances leadership, judgment, and day-to-day ownership of key compensation processes, with a focus on building scalable practices as the function grows.

Kimley-Horn is looking for a Compensation Manager to join our Raleigh, North Carolina (NC) office. This is not a remote position.

• Own and lead the firm’s compensation function, including salary administration frameworks, policies, and governance
• Serve as the primary compensation partner to senior leadership, providing clear, data-driven recommendations and guidance in partnership with our external consultant.
• Administer and evolve the salary structure, including job mapping, pay positioning, and range management
• Lead and actively manage compensation decisions, including offers, promotions, and off-cycle adjustments
• Serve as the escalation point for complex or high-impact pay decisions, providing clear, defensible recommendations
• Lead the annual salary review process, including planning, guidance, and calibration across the firm
• Support bonus administration and ensure alignment to overall compensation programs
• Oversee market pricing and benchmarking to maintain competitive, market-aligned salary ranges
• Analyze compensation data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities (e.g., equity, compression, market gaps)
• Partner with Finance on budgeting, workforce planning, and compensation cost impacts
• Establish and maintain consistent processes, documentation, and controls to support audit-ready, defensible decisions
• Drive process improvements to increase consistency, efficiency, and scalability of salary administration
• Serve as a trusted advisor to HR and office leadership, translating data into practical, actionable guidance
• Mentor and develop compensation analysts while helping build the structure and capabilities of the team over time

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or related field
• 10+ years of experience in compensation, with strong focus on salary administration
• Proven experience managing salary structures, market pricing, and compensation cycles
• Experience advising senior leaders on compensation decisions and trade-offs
• Strong analytical skills with advanced Excel and data interpretation capabilities
• Demonstrated ability to operate at both a strategic and hands-on level
• Strong communication, judgment, and stakeholder management skillsPreferred Qualifications
• Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)
• Experience in a professional services environment
• Experience mentoring or leading team members

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

• Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
• Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
• Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
• Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.