Total Rewards Specialist

Location: Denver, CO (In-Office) Job Type: Full-Time Exempt Salary: $71,000 - $107,000/YR Actual offer will be based on experience, location, education, and/or skills Applications should be submitted for consideration no later than 08/31/2026.

Who We’re Looking For You’re a detail-oriented Total Rewards professional who enjoys blending analytical work with associate-facing support. You bring a strong understanding of compensation and benefits programs and take pride in delivering accurate, equitable, and competitive rewards. You’re comfortable managing sensitive information, working across teams, and serving as a trusted resource for associates. If you enjoy supporting pay equity, benefits administration, and compliance while providing excellent service, this role is for you.

About the Role

The Total Rewards Specialist supports the design, administration, and execution of First Western Trust’s compensation and benefits programs. This role conducts market research, pay analysis, and job evaluation activities to ensure competitive and equitable pay practices. You will also manage core benefits operations, oversee enrollment processes, and serve as a key resource for leave administration and ADA accommodations. The position plays a critical role in maintaining compliance, supporting audit readiness, and ensuring that Total Rewards programs are delivered with accuracy, consistency, and exceptional service.

What You’ll Do

Oversee benefit programs and vendor relationships, ensuring offerings remain competitive and aligned with organizational needs. Design, administer, and maintain compensation programs, including developing and communicating pay structures, job architecture, and compensation guidelines. Conduct market analysis, compensation research, and pay equity assessments to ensure competitiveness and compliance with regulatory requirements. Manage new hire and promotion pay rate recommendations, including oversight of role-based grid (range-based guidelines) and related compensation tools. Coordinate and administer the annual merit cycle, ensuring accuracy of data, workflows, and communications. Lead benefit enrollment processes for new hires and annual open enrollment, including employee education and support. Perform compensation and benefits related payroll audits and approvals to ensure accurate processing of pay and benefit transactions. Maintain and update job descriptions and support job evaluation and job architecture processes. Serve as the primary point of contact for leave of absence administration and ADA accommodation coordination, ensuring compliance and a positive associate experience. Support internal and external audits by preparing required documentation, reports, and compliance records.

What You Bring

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Human Resources, or related field (required). 3–5 years of experience in benefits administration, compensation, or related experience (required). Strong analytical skills with ability to interpret compensation and market data. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Office tools. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. High attention to detail and strong organizational skills. Ability to manage confidential information with discretion. SHRM-CP or PHR within 180 days of hire preferred. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP), Certified Benefits Professional (CBP), or similar within 2 years of hire preferred.

What We Offer

Competitive base salary: $71,000 - $107,000/YR, plus strong bonus potential.

401(k) plan with employer match.

Paid parking and transportation benefits.

Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including

Health savings accounts (HSA)

Flexible spending accounts (FSA)

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Generous paid time off and bank holidays.

Access to training and professional development programs.

Sponsorship and support for obtaining professional certifications.

A culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and shared success.

Who We Are At First Western Trust, we’re more than just a financial institution—we’re a team of forward-thinkers committed to excellence, innovation, and impact. Our culture thrives on teamwork and mutual respect, grounded in the belief that diverse perspectives fuel creativity and help us tackle challenges in fresh, effective ways. We celebrate each other’s successes, welcome new ideas, and take personal ownership in everything we do. A genuine desire to positively impact our clients, communities, and one another drives our work. We meet challenges with a growth mindset, act with urgency and accountability, and constantly strive to raise the bar for ourselves and our clients. Leadership at First Western means setting an example and fostering a culture of trust, transparency, and respect. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or bringing years of experience, you’ll find a welcoming community where your contributions are valued and your potential is boundless.

We expect our people to

Demand and reward excellence. Take action and responsibility. Collaborate, communicate openly, and give/receive feedback with trust. Go above and beyond to do what’s right—always. If that sounds like you, you’ll fit right in. Learn more at myfw.com or email Talent.Management@myfw.com.

Equal Opportunity Employer

First Western Trust is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace where every team member is valued and given the opportunity to thrive. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. For accommodation requests, please contact Talent.Management@myfw.com.

Region A Pay Range

Pay Range $71,000—$107,000 USD