Senior Compensation Partner

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

8d • $116,000 - $123,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

At USC, we’re reimagining how compensation drives equity, competitiveness, and organizational strategy across one of the world’s leading research universities. We’re seeking a Senior Compensation Partner who thrives at the intersection of data, strategy, and influence— translating complex insights into decisions that shape how we attract, retain, and reward talent. This is not a transactional role. You’ll serve as a trusted advisor to HR and leadership, guiding high-impact compensation decisions across diverse academic and administrative functions. Note: USC is actively hiring for multiple Senior Compensation Partner openings. Candidates may be considered for current and upcoming roles within our Compensation team. Work Arrangement: This hybrid role is based in Los Angeles, with an expectation of approximately two days per week on-site. Work arrangements may be adjusted over time based on business needs. What Sets This Role Apart High visibility across a complex, decentralized organization Opportunity to influence equity and workforce strategy at scale Blend of hands-on analytics and consultative partnership Exposure to organizational design and strategic decision-making Hybrid work environment based in Los Angeles

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree
• 6 years of job-related experience or transferable skills
• Solid compensation skills and experience as an analyst in a corporate or university environment.
• Thorough knowledge of compensation best practices, principles, methodologies and wage and hour regulations, skilled in analyzing and evaluating job content.
• Ability to identify and solve problems creatively.
• Knowledge of compensation market data benchmarking and analysis for providing guidance to business partners on pay recommendations.
• Excellent analytical, customer service and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to interface and communicate with all levels of employees.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to multi-task and set priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Detail oriented.
• In addition, the successful candidate must also demonstrate, through ideas, words, and actions, a strong commitment to USC’s Unifying Values of integrity, excellence, community, well-being, open communication, and accountability.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration or in related field(s)
• 8 years of job-related experience or transferable skills
• Experience providing guidance and direction to compensation analysts.
• Certified Compensation Professional – CCP (WorldatWork)

Responsibilities

• Advise & Influence: Partner with HR leaders and departments to guide compensation decisions on structure, pay, and organizational design
• Drive Pay Equity & Strategy: Lead analyses on internal equity, market competitiveness, and pay practices—translating data into actionable recommendations
• Own Complex Compensation Work: Lead reclassifications, promotions, and organizational changes with a high degree of autonomy
• Tell the Story with Data: Build compelling, executive-ready narratives that inform leadership decisions
• Shape Programs & Practices: Contribute to the evolution of compensation programs, policies, and job architecture
• Ensure Compliance & Integrity: Maintain alignment with wage regulations, institutional policies, and best practices
• Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

Benefits

• USC offers a wide variety of benefits and programs that support our staff and their families, promoting work-life balance and overall well-being.
• Our employees are connected by the traditions and history that make us proud to be Trojans, and our culture is built on mutual respect, trust, and collaboration.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level