Compensation and Benefits Leader
Date: Jan 30, 2026
Location: Centennial, CO, US, 80112
Company: United Launch Alliance
Requisition ID: 1629
Standard Weekly Hours: 40.00
Location: ULA - Denver
Relocation: Yes- Relocation may be available
Travel Requirements: 10%
At ULA, success comes through the efforts of a strong, united team.
Thanks for your interest in United Launch Alliance, the world's most experienced and reliable space launch company! Successfully launching more than 155 consecutive missions with 100% mission success doesn't happen by accident. It's a testament to the commitment and dedication of our team of rocket scientists and support employees combined with the systems and processes we use to pull them together. As a ULA employee, you'll have the opportunity to grow in your career while working in a team-oriented culture that combines technology, innovation, ingenuity and a commitment to the extraordinary. Whether you are in college just launching your career, or, have experience and want to come work with the best rocket team in the world, our unshakable unity yields stronger solutions and better results as we carry out our mission to save lives, explore the universe, and connect the world. Our team is excited to meet you!
Job Overview & Responsibilities
The Compensation and Benefits Leader is responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive total rewards strategy that drives business performance and enhances employee engagement. This role partners closely with senior leadership to ensure compensation, benefits, and recognition programs align with organizational goals, reinforce our culture, and support talent attraction and retention. As a key member of the HR leadership team, this individual will bring innovative thinking, strong analytical skills, and a collaborative approach to advance the company’s objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
Compensation Strategy
- Lead the design, implementation, and governance of compensation programs, including base pay, incentive plans, variable compensation, bonus programs, and long-term incentives.
- Ensure market competitiveness and internal equity through regular benchmarking and analysis.
- Develop and manage executive compensation strategies, including preparation of reports for senior leadership and Compensation Committees.
Benefits & Well-being
- Oversee benefits planning and administration, including health and welfare, retirement, and work-life programs.
- Partner with brokers and third-party providers to negotiate and manage cost-effective, high-quality solutions.
- Drive initiatives that promote employee well-being and financial security.
Governance & Compliance
- Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local regulations related to compensation and benefits.
- Participate in salary surveys, job evaluations, and salary structure development to ensure alignment with market trends.
Collaboration & Leadership
- Partner with HR Business Partners and business leaders to reinforce a performance-driven culture with differentiated rewards.
- Build and sustain collaborative relationships across all levels of the organization.
- Provide strategic insights and recommendations to senior leadership on total rewards trends and opportunities.
Technology & Analytics
- Utilize data and analytics to evaluate program effectiveness and inform decision-making.
- May oversee HRIS-related processes and improvements to enhance user experience and support business needs.
- Manage external vendors and negotiate supplier contracts for HR technology solutions and related services.
Required Education
Bachelor
Required Years of Experience
Minimum of 8 years of related work experience
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management, Business Administration, or related field.
- Progressive experience in Total Rewards, including at least 2 years in a leadership role.
- Strong understanding of HR laws and regulations (federal, state, and local).
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to translate complex information into clear, actionable insights.
- Strong business acumen and analytical skills.
- Ability to build trust, foster collaboration, and contribute to an inclusive culture.
- Goal-oriented with the ability to prioritize in a dynamic environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Human Resource Management or related field.
- Aerospace/Defense or Engineering industry experience.
- Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) designation.
- Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or equivalent certification.
- Experience with executive compensation governance.
- Technical understanding of HRIS platforms, including SAP (or similar systems).
- Proven experience managing external vendors and negotiating supplier contracts.
Summary Salary Range (for ULA - Denver only): $127,371.00 - $236,546.00
Please note that the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon a candidate's experience and qualifications, as well as internal equity, market and business considerations. Employees may be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus in addition to base pay.
What makes ULA different?
Because we understand launch success comes through the collective efforts of a team, we seek the best to join us. We value ethics, ingenuity, engagement and professional development for employees at all levels.
We offer our employees competitive pay and benefits including:
- 401(k) match plus an additional employer contribution
- Discretionary annual incentive bonus for eligible employees
- Generous paid time off
- Flexible work environments
Additionally, most salaried ULA team members work a "9/80 schedule," meaning they enjoy every other Friday off.
Benefits and work schedules may vary for union-represented hourly positions and are described in the applicable collective bargaining agreement.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Security Clearance / International Traffic In Arms Regulations (ITAR). This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic In Arms Regulations (ITAR). Therefore, all applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined in ITAR 22 CFR 120.62 (e.g., U.S. Citizen, Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) or protected individual. See 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) and 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) for additional information).
ULA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.
ULA is a participant in the federal E-Verify Program. Posters in PDF format pertaining to this program can be accessed by clicking on the links identified below. E-Verify Participation poster (English / Spanish) and Right to Work Poster (English / Spanish).
Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act requires covered employees to follow a post selection notification process. A hired candidate may opt out of this process by notifying the hiring manager in writing at the time the offer is accepted
Nearest Major Market: Denver