Compensation & Benefits Specialist Salary in Ames
Manages employee pay structures, benefits programs, and job classification systems.
Ames ranks #357 of 530 U.S. metro areas for compensation & benefits specialist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $2,707 below the national average.
Ames vs National Average
| Level | This Metro | National Avg | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level I (Entry) | $47,549 | $50,256 | $-2,707 | -5.4% |
| Level II | $58,240 | $61,931 | $-3,691 | -6.0% |
| Level III (Mid) | $68,910 | $73,605 | $-4,695 | -6.4% |
| Level IV (Senior) | $79,602 | $85,280 | $-5,678 | -6.7% |
Other metros in Iowa
| Metro Area | Level I | Level IV | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Rapids | $51,730 | $91,686 | $78,499 |
| Omaha | $50,606 | $90,085 | $77,064 |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls | $52,478 | $84,490 | $73,923 |
| Dubuque | $49,421 | $84,843 | $73,154 |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines | $48,818 | $82,451 | $71,365 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average compensation & benefits specialist salary in Ames?
The average compensation & benefits specialist salary in Ames is $69,035 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Ames at rank #357 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.
What do entry-level compensation & benefits specialists earn in Ames?
Entry-level compensation & benefits specialists (Level I) in Ames earn $47,549 per year. Level II (early career) earns $58,240, reflecting growing independence and experience.
How does Ames compare to the national average for compensation & benefits specialist salaries?
Ames ranks #357 of 530 U.S. metro areas for compensation & benefits specialist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $2,707 below the national average. The national average compensation & benefits specialist salary is $73,722, while Ames workers average $69,035 — a difference of -6% overall.
Data source: Salary data sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, which surveys employers nationwide to collect wage data by occupation and geography. The four experience levels reflect DOL standardized tiers. Data reflects the most recently published survey cycle. SOC code: 13-1141.