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Senior Compensation Analyst

Company Description

At Western Digital, our vision is to power global innovation and push the boundaries of technology to make what you thought was once impossible, possible.

At our core, Western Digital is a company of problem solvers. People achieve extraordinary things given the right technology. For decades, we’ve been doing just that—our technology helped people put a man on the moon and capture the first-ever picture of a black hole.

We offer an expansive portfolio of technologies, HDDs, and platforms for business, creative professionals, and consumers alike under our Western Digital®, WD®, WD_BLACK™, and SanDisk® Professional brands.

We are a key partner to some of the largest and highest-growth organizations in the world. From enabling systems to make cities safer and more connected, to powering the data centers behind many of the world’s biggest companies and hyperscale cloud providers, to meeting the massive and ever-growing data storage needs of the AI era, Western Digital is fueling a brighter, smarter future.

Job Description

Western Digital is seeking a highly motivated experienced Senior Compensation Analyst to join our fast-paced Compensation team. This ideal individual that will provide compensation guidance to internal clients and collaborates with HR partners in the planning, development, implementation, and administration of major compensation initiatives and/or programs, compensation policies and practices. The ideal individual must possess strong financial modeling and excel skills, have the ability to analyze large amounts of data and utilize that data to help tell the story and influence decision making. Participate in salary surveys and studies labor markets to determine compensation trends. Applies job evaluation techniques to establish equitable compensation rates within the organization as compared with market. The right candidate will have the ability to analyze complex problems, multi-task and meet deadlines. The successful candidate is highly collaborative, displays excellent communication skills – both written and verbal – is an active listener, who can synthesize different data and viewpoints and understands the global context and workplace trends in our competitive environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Carries out complex analysis assignments involving the development, implementation and administration of broad-based compensation.
  • Evaluates jobs using standard job evaluation techniques; determines grades and supports the development and modeling of salary ranges.
  • Manages focal reviews such as merit, short-term and long-term incentives including processes from inception to completion. Partner with internal stakeholders to ensure data and system readiness to deliver such processes. Workday experience preferred.
  • Administration of our global LTI compensation programs including time-based equity (Restricted Stock Units-RSUs) and cash plans, vesting schedules, award agreements, and equity plan governance. 
  • Administration of our global Rewards & Recognition program to include budgeting, resolving program issues and working closely with our 3rd party vendor to maintain our tool.
  • On-going evaluation of the effectiveness of existing global compensation program design and guidelines.
  • Utilizes survey management tool to effectively administer global compensation programs.
  • Participates in salary surveys conducted by third parties such as Aon Radford, Mercer and etc.
  • Remains current on all personnel policies, programs and practices and stays informed of new (and pending) laws and regulations.
  • Act as internal consultant/advisor to managers and other HR staff. Makes recommendations to managers and HR Business Partners on all compensation issues; and interprets local, state, and federal laws regulating compensation practices.
  • Create materials to effectively communicate compensation programs, policies and practices to employees and leaders.
  • Conduct market and best practice research to formulate and support compensation recommendations.

Qualifications

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor’s degree plus equivalent work experience and relevant qualifications; CCP preferred.
  • Proven experience working in a global environment and partnering across countries and regions to achieve results in a fast moving, dynamic environment preferably within high-tech or manufacturing industries.
  • Advanced proficiency working with Microsoft Suite and good familiarity in Workday HCM and Advanced Compensation module.
  • Strong understanding of global compensation principles, general industry practices, regulations, and both historical and current market trends.
  • Extensive work experience in base pay, short term incentives, equity programs, and work experience in sales and executive compensation.
  • Working knowledge of high-tech surveys such as Aon Radford, Mercer and Compa.
  • Self-starter and have the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines and large-scale projects.
  • Demonstrated ability to act with discretion, confidentiality, and good judgment.
  • Required to conduct business with the highest legal and ethical standards.
  • Ability to lead global compensation projects.
  • Ability to think creatively and strategically to align compensation goals to the needs of the business.
  • Must have effective decision-making/critical thinking skills and be creative and results oriented.
  • Analytical mindset and ability to manage large, complex data sets.

Additional Information

Western Digital is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants and employees and will not discriminate based on their race, color, ancestry, religion (including religious dress and grooming standards), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), gender (including a person’s gender identity, gender expression, and gender-related appearance and behavior, whether or not stereotypically associated with the person’s assigned sex at birth), age, national origin, sexual orientation, medical condition, marital status (including domestic partnership status), physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, protected medical and family care leave, Civil Air Patrol status, military and veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. We also prohibit harassment of any individual on any of the characteristics listed above. Our non-discrimination policy applies to all aspects of employment. We comply with the laws and regulations set forth in the Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law poster.

Western Digital thrives on the power and potential of diversity. As a global company, we believe the most effective way to embrace the diversity of our customers and communities is to mirror it from within. We believe the fusion of various perspectives results in the best outcomes for our employees, our company, our customers, and the world around us. We are committed to an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive through a sense of belonging, respect and contribution.

Western Digital is committed to offering opportunities to applicants with disabilities and ensuring all candidates can successfully navigate our careers website and our hiring process. Please contact us at [email protected] to advise us of your accommodation request. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

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Compensation & Benefits Details

  • An employee’s pay position within the salary range may be based on several factors including but not limited to (1) relevant education; qualifications; certifications; and experience; (2) skills, ability, knowledge of the job; (3) performance, contribution and results; (4) geographic location; (5) shift; (6) internal and external equity; and (7) business and organizational needs.
  • The salary range is what we believe to be the range of possible compensation for this role at the time of this posting.  We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and this range is only applicable for jobs to be performed in California, Colorado, New York or remote jobs that can be performed in California, Colorado and New York.  This range may be modified in the future.
  • You will be eligible to participate in Western Digital’s Short-Term Incentive (STI) Plan, which provides incentive awards based on Company and individual performance.  Depending on your role and your performance, you may be eligible to participate in our annual Long-Term Incentive (LTI) program, which consists of restricted stock units (RSUs) or cash equivalents, pursuant to the terms of the LTI plan. Please note that not all roles are eligible to participate in the LTI program, and not all roles are eligible for equity under the LTI plan. RSU awards are also available to eligible new hires, subject to Western Digital’s Standard Terms and Conditions for Restricted Stock Unit Awards.
  • We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid vacation time; paid sick leave; medical/dental/vision insurance; life, accident and disability insurance; tax-advantaged flexible spending and health savings accounts; employee assistance program; other voluntary benefit programs such as supplemental life and AD&D, legal plan, pet insurance, critical illness, accident and hospital indemnity; tuition reimbursement; transit; the Applause Program, employee stock purchase plan, and the Western Digital Savings 401(k) Plan.
  • Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company’s sole discretion, consistent with the law.
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Average salary estimate

$105000 / YEARLY (est.)
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$90000K
$120000K

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What You Should Know About Senior Compensation Analyst, Western Digital

At Western Digital, we're driven by a passion for innovation and technology, making the impossible possible. As a Senior Compensation Analyst based in sunny San Jose, CA, you'll play a critical role in our dynamic Compensation team. This isn't just about crunching numbers; it’s about storytelling through data! You’ll provide compensation guidance to our internal clients while collaborating closely with HR partners to roll out major initiatives and policies that shape our workplace culture. Your expertise will help us remain competitive, as you analyze labor market trends and evaluate jobs using standard evaluation techniques to ensure we maintain equitable compensation rates. We're looking for someone who thrives on tackling complex challenges, is a skilled communicator, and can deftly manage multiple priorities. Your role will include administering our global Long-Term Incentive (LTI) and Rewards & Recognition programs, as well as conducting market research to refine our compensation practices. With your advanced Excel skills and experience in Workday, you'll partner with various teams to ensure our compensation processes run smoothly. If you're a self-starter who appreciates creativity and strategy in achieving business objectives, you’ll find a fulfilling career path at Western Digital. Join us in fueling a brighter, smarter future!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Senior Compensation Analyst Role at Western Digital
What responsibilities does a Senior Compensation Analyst at Western Digital have?

As a Senior Compensation Analyst at Western Digital, you will be responsible for various tasks such as conducting complex analyses for broad-based compensation programs, evaluating job positions to determine grades and salary ranges, and administering work processes for merit and incentives. You will also engage in external salary surveys to ensure competitiveness in compensation practices, communicate policies effectively, and act as an internal advisor on compensation issues.

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What qualifications are required for the Senior Compensation Analyst role at Western Digital?

The ideal candidate for the Senior Compensation Analyst position at Western Digital should have a bachelor’s degree plus relevant work experience, with a preference for a Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) designation. Additionally, extensive experience in compensation practices, particularly in a global environment, proficiency with tools like Microsoft Excel and Workday HCM, and a strong understanding of compensation regulations are essential.

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What skills are essential for a Senior Compensation Analyst at Western Digital?

Essential skills for a Senior Compensation Analyst at Western Digital include advanced financial modeling and analysis capabilities, superior Excel proficiency, excellent communication skills, and an analytical mindset. You'll also benefit from having problem-solving abilities to manage complex data sets and contribute to strategic decision-making. Experience leading compensation projects and collaborating with cross-functional teams is imperative.

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How does the Senior Compensation Analyst contribute to salary trends within Western Digital?

The Senior Compensation Analyst at Western Digital plays a key role in analyzing labor market data to identify compensation trends that directly influence salary structures. By participating in salary surveys and applying job evaluation techniques, this professional ensures that the organization maintains competitive pay practices, effectively positioning Western Digital as an attractive employer in the tech industry.

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What is the work environment like for a Senior Compensation Analyst at Western Digital?

The work environment for a Senior Compensation Analyst at Western Digital is collaborative and fast-paced, offering ample opportunities for professional growth. The role requires engaging with various HR partners and internal stakeholders, fostering an atmosphere of teamwork and innovation. Being part of a company dedicated to pushing technological boundaries adds a dynamic and fulfilling aspect to your career.

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Common Interview Questions for Senior Compensation Analyst
What experience do you have with compensation analysis?

In answering this question, emphasize your relevant experience in analyzing compensation structures, conducting market surveys, and utilizing tools like Excel and compensation software. Highlight specific instances where your analyses influenced compensation strategies and decision-making, showing your understanding of the impact of data on compensation practices.

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How do you stay updated with compensation trends?

Discuss how you actively participate in industry seminars, follow relevant research firms like Mercer and Aon Radford, read industry publications, and engage with professional networks to keep abreast of the latest trends in compensation. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and professional development in the field.

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Describe a time you faced a challenge in compensation management and how you resolved it.

Showcase your problem-solving skills by providing a specific example where you identified an issue, analyzed relevant data, and executed a solution. Discuss how your approach ensured compliance with compensation policies and satisfied both employee and organizational needs.

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What tools or software do you prefer for compensation analysis?

Mention your familiarity with tools like Excel, Workday HCM, and survey management software. Discuss how you've leveraged these tools to gather, analyze, and present compensation data effectively, illustrating your proficiency in technical skills while also highlighting your analytical capabilities.

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How would you communicate a complex compensation policy to employees?

Explain your approach to simplifying technical information into understandable terms. Highlight the importance of transparency and clarity, and illustrate how you would use visuals, interactive sessions, or written materials to effectively communicate compensation policies, ensuring all employees trust and understand the compensation structure.

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What strategies would you employ to ensure equitable compensation across a diverse workforce?

Discuss how you would leverage data analytics and benchmarking practices to assess and ensure equity in compensation across various employee demographics. Highlight the importance of understanding both local and global compensation norms and how ongoing reviews and adjustments are critical to maintaining equity.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you handle confidentiality in compensation-related matters?

Emphasize your understanding of the sensitivity of compensation information and your commitment to maintaining confidentiality. Discuss your experience implementing secure processes and respecting privacy, which ensures compliance with both internal policies and external regulations.

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Can you describe your experience with Long-Term Incentive (LTI) compensation programs?

Share your knowledge of LTI compensation, mentioning specific types of plans you've managed, such as Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) or cash award plans. Discuss your skills in analyzing performance metrics and collaborating with stakeholders to ensure alignment with company goals.

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What do you think are the most significant trends shaping compensation practices today?

Discuss emerging trends such as pay equity, the rise of remote work, and the importance of flexibility in compensation packages. Show your awareness of how these trends impact compensation strategies and employee satisfaction, highlighting your proactive approach to adapting compensation practices accordingly.

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Why do you want to work as a Senior Compensation Analyst at Western Digital?

Express your enthusiasm for Western Digital's commitment to innovation and technology. Highlight your alignment with the company's values and mission and how your skills and experience uniquely position you to contribute positively to the compensation team. Your answer should reflect a deep understanding of the organization's goals and a desire to be part of its success.

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DATE POSTED
April 4, 2025

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