Compliance Manager Job Description (Responsibilities, Skills, Duties and Sample Template)

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If you’ve Googled “Compliance Manager job description,” you’ve probably come across dozens of pages that look exactly the same.

Bullet points. Buzzwords. No personality. And nothing that actually helps you hire someone great.

Here’s the problem: most job descriptions online aren’t written to attract top talent—they’re written to fill space. They list generic duties like “ensure compliance with laws and regulations” without ever explaining what kind of candidate the company really needs, what success in the role looks like, or what makes the opportunity exciting.

That’s why most job posts get ignored by the best candidates.

In this guide, we’re doing things differently. You’ll get:

  • A plain-English definition of what a Compliance Manager really does

  • Two customizable job description templates (one for experienced hires, one for entry-level candidates)

  • A breakdown of why good posts work—and where most go wrong

  • A copy-paste version you can tweak fast

  • And real tips to make your job post stand out and attract the right people

If you want to write a job post that brings in qualified, mission-aligned candidates—and not just checkbox applicants—keep reading.

And if you haven’t already, I highly recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/  . It explains why most templates fail, and how a great post can transform your hiring results.

Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.

WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.

What a Compliance Manager Actually Does - Their Roles

A Compliance Manager is the person who makes sure your company follows the rules.

That includes everything from internal policies to government regulations, industry standards, and ethical practices. But it’s not just about avoiding fines or audits. A great Compliance Manager protects your company’s reputation, builds trust with customers and regulators, and helps your team operate with confidence.

In practice, they might be creating compliance programs, training employees, reviewing contracts, handling risk assessments, or leading investigations when something goes wrong. They’re part detective, part advisor, and part educator—all rolled into one.

If your business is growing, expanding into new regions, or operating in a heavily regulated industry, a Compliance Manager isn’t just a nice-to-have—they’re essential.

The best ones don’t just check boxes. They think ahead, simplify the complex, and make sure everyone on the team understands what’s expected.

Two Great Compliance Manager Job Description Templates

We’ll provide two tailored job description options:

1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.

2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.

🔹 Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Compliance Managers

Job Title: Compliance Manager – Keystone Capital Advisors | New York, NY (Hybrid) | $85,000–$105,000

🎥 Meet Your Hiring Manager
 Watch this quick video from our Director of Operations to get a sense of our culture and what we’re looking for:
 👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link Here]

About the Role
 We’re looking for an experienced Compliance Manager to help us navigate regulatory frameworks, reduce business risk, and ensure we operate with clarity and integrity at every level. If you’re someone who thrives in fast-paced environments and knows how to build systems that empower—not slow down—great work, we want to hear from you.

Who We Are
 Keystone Capital Advisors is a boutique investment advisory firm based in New York City. We help high-growth startups and family-owned businesses build lasting financial strategies that go beyond quarterly returns. We believe in clear communication, disciplined execution, and ethical decision-making. Our team works with integrity and discretion—and we expect the same from everyone we hire.

What You’ll Do

  • Develop and manage our internal compliance program

  • Track and interpret relevant regulations (SEC, FINRA, etc.)

  • Conduct periodic risk assessments and internal audits

  • Train staff on compliance standards and protocols

  • Handle regulatory filings and maintain accurate documentation

  • Investigate and resolve compliance-related issues

  • Liaise with legal counsel and external regulatory bodies

What We’re Looking For

  • 3–5+ years in compliance, risk, or legal roles (preferably in finance or professional services)

  • Deep understanding of U.S. financial regulations (e.g., SEC, FINRA, AML/KYC)

  • Proactive communicator who can make complex requirements easy to follow

  • Bachelor’s degree in Law, Business, or Finance (CAMS or CRCM is a bonus)

  • Strong organizational and documentation skills

Why This Role Is a Great Fit
 This isn’t a check-the-box compliance role. You’ll be part of strategic conversations and have the trust to build systems from the ground up. You’ll work closely with the leadership team and have direct input into how we scale responsibly. Your work will directly impact how we grow—and how we protect our clients’ trust.

Perks and Benefits

  • $85,000–$105,000 salary (based on experience)

  • Hybrid work schedule (3 days in-office, 2 remote)

  • 100% employer-covered health, dental, and vision insurance

  • 401(k) with 4% match

  • 18 PTO days + 10 paid holidays

  • Budget for certifications and compliance training

  • Wellness stipend + commuter benefits

How to Apply
 We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not keywords.
 Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]

🔹 Option 2: Job Description For Entry-Level / Trainable Candidates

Job Title: Junior Compliance Coordinator – Keystone Capital Advisors | New York, NY (Hybrid) | $55,000–$65,000

🎥 Meet Your Hiring Manager
 Watch this quick video from our Director of Operations to see how we work and what we’re excited about for this role:
 👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link Here]

About the Role
 We’re hiring a Junior Compliance Coordinator to support our growing compliance team. If you’re organized, curious, and interested in building a career in finance, this is your chance to get hands-on experience while learning from a team that’s committed to doing things the right way. No prior compliance experience? No problem—we’ll train you.

Who We Are
 Keystone Capital Advisors is a boutique financial advisory firm helping clients make long-term, values-aligned investment decisions. We operate in an industry that demands precision and trust—and we’re proud to meet that standard. Our office runs on teamwork, open communication, and a shared drive to do meaningful work.

What You’ll Do

  • Help update and organize compliance documentation

  • Assist with internal audits and process checklists

  • Track training schedules and compliance reminders

  • Support research into regulatory updates

  • Collaborate with the finance and legal teams on documentation

  • Coordinate compliance calendars and filings

What We’re Looking For

  • Detail-oriented with strong communication skills

  • Comfortable with spreadsheets, tracking systems, and documentation

  • Curious mindset and willingness to learn compliance frameworks

  • Bonus: background in business, finance, or legal studies (not required)

  • Bonus: experience in a professional or regulated environment

Why This Role Is a Great Fit
 You’ll be part of a small but growing team where you’ll get mentorship, real responsibility, and a career path—not just a job. This is a role where your attention to detail, organization, and follow-through will be seen, appreciated, and rewarded.

Perks and Benefits

  • $55,000–$65,000 starting salary

  • Hybrid work environment (3 days in-office, 2 remote)

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance (75% employer-covered)

  • 401(k) with company match

  • 15 PTO days + flexible holidays

  • Paid compliance training and certification support

  • Monthly wellness stipend

How to Apply
 We use WorkScreen to make hiring fair and skill-based.
 Click the link below to complete a short evaluation—no résumé required at this stage.
 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]

Smart Hiring Starts Here

WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results

Breakdown of Why These Compliance Manager Job Posts Actually Work

🔎 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Purpose-Driven

Instead of vague titles like “Compliance Specialist” or “Entry-Level Coordinator,” both posts make it clear what the role is, where it’s located, who it’s for, and what level of experience is expected.

  • “Compliance Manager – Keystone Capital Advisors” immediately signals seniority, company identity, and industry professionalism.

  • “Junior Compliance Coordinator – Entry-Level” reassures newer candidates that this is a growth opportunity—not a job they’ll be rejected from for not having experience.

🔎 2. Each Post Opens with Context, Not Just Tasks

The introductions don’t just say “we’re hiring.” They explain what kind of compliance mindset the company values and what kind of person would thrive there. This humanizes the role and draws in the right kind of candidate.

  • The experienced version emphasizes systems thinking and strategic input.

  • The junior version speaks to curiosity, growth, and support.

This shows candidates that the company has thought about what success in the role looks like—not just what boxes to tick.

🔎 3. A Loom Video Personalizes the Post

Adding a short video from the hiring manager helps break the wall of formality. It gives applicants a chance to “meet” the team and hear the tone of the company before applying.

This small addition increases trust, makes your company stand out, and improves conversion—especially among high-quality applicants who are selective.

🔎 4. The “Who We Are” Section Shows the Mission, Not Just the Facts

Instead of generic filler like “We’re a fast-growing company looking for top talent,” these descriptions include:

  • A company purpose (“values-aligned investment decisions”)

  • How the team works (“trust, transparency, collaboration”)

  • A sense of pride in the work

This lets the candidate decide if they align with the company’s values—filtering in the right people and filtering out the wrong ones.

🔎 5. The Responsibilities Are Framed Around Impact, Not Just Tasks

Instead of listing generic bullet points like “Monitor compliance,” the posts explain why those tasks matter:

  • “Build systems from the ground up”

  • “Help us scale responsibly”

  • “Keep our team operating with clarity and integrity”

  • “Coordinate compliance calendars so nothing gets missed”

This helps candidates see how their work contributes to the bigger picture.

🔎 6. The Hiring Process Is Respectful and Transparent

Both posts explain the process (via WorkScreen) and why it’s used: to evaluate candidates fairly and efficiently. There’s no “send your résumé and wait in the void.” That makes candidates feel respected.

This also shows your company is modern, structured, and values their time—exactly what smart candidates are looking for.

🔎 7. The “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section Sells the Opportunity

This section is your pitch. And in both posts, it does more than just say “you’ll love it here.”

It speaks to ownership, mentorship, growth potential, and alignment with company strategy—without sounding like corporate jargon. It makes people want to apply.

🔎 8. Perks and Benefits Are Clear and Specific

Compensation isn’t buried or vague. Benefits are broken out into their own section for easy scanning. This builds trust with applicants and filters for people who are serious about the role.

A Bad Compliance Manager Job Description (And What’s Wrong With It)

Job Title: Compliance Officer
 Company: ABC Corp
 Location: N/A
 Type: Full-Time
 Salary: Not disclosed

Job Summary
 ABC Corp is seeking a Compliance Officer to ensure the organization follows all applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. The ideal candidate will monitor internal controls, conduct audits, and submit reports to management.

Key Responsibilities

  • Monitor compliance with regulations and policies

  • Maintain documentation

  • Submit reports as required

  • Ensure adherence to company standards

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field

  • 3–5 years of experience in compliance or regulatory roles

  • Good communication and organizational skills

How to Apply
 Submit your CV and cover letter to hr@abccorp.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

🚫 Why This Job Post Fails

1. The Job Title Is Too Generic

“Compliance Officer” says nothing about the company, the level of the role, or the industry. It’s forgettable—and likely to get lost in a sea of similar-sounding posts.

2. There’s No Introduction or Mission

The post jumps straight into tasks without explaining:

  • What the company does

  • Why the role exists

  • How compliance fits into the bigger picture

This makes the job feel like a formality instead of an opportunity.

3. It Hides the Salary

Not including a salary range is one of the biggest red flags for job seekers today. It signals a lack of transparency and discourages qualified candidates from applying.

4. The Responsibilities Are Vague

Phrases like “maintain documentation” and “submit reports” are so broad they’re meaningless. They don’t give the candidate any sense of what they’ll actually be doing day-to-day—or why it matters.

5. There’s No Mention of Culture or Values

There’s nothing in the post that tells the candidate what the team is like, what the work environment is, or what kind of mindset the company values.

This leaves candidates guessing—and top performers don’t guess. They skip.

6. The Application Process Feels Cold

“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is one of the most impersonal phrases you can include. It tells the applicant their effort probably won’t be acknowledged—and that’s a terrible first impression.

7. The Tone Is Robotic

There’s no personality. No warmth. No invitation to connect. It reads like someone copied a compliance post from 2008 and pasted it into a template.

Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out

Even if your job description already looks solid, these small upgrades can make a big difference in how it performs—and who it attracts.

🔐 1. Add a Privacy & Security Notice

Job scams are on the rise, and serious candidates are cautious. Including a clear message about how you handle applications helps build trust.

Example you can use:

“We take the privacy and security of all applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, personal banking information, or sensitive identity documents during the hiring process.”

This one sentence can reassure candidates that your company is legitimate and trustworthy.

🛏️ 2. Mention Paid Leave or Flex Time

Many job posts list compensation but forget to mention rest—and that’s a missed opportunity.

Example:

“Enjoy up to 18 PTO days and 10 paid holidays, so you have the time and space to recharge and come back stronger.”

Even if your policy is standard, mentioning it helps position your company as people-first.

🎓 3. Highlight Training and Career Growth

Especially in entry-level or mid-level roles, candidates want to know: “Will I learn something here?”

Example:

“You’ll get access to ongoing compliance training, certification prep support, and mentorship from our senior leadership team.”

This helps attract motivated candidates who are in it for the long term.

🎥 4. Add a Loom or YouTube Video

Even a 60-second video from the hiring manager adds warmth, clarity, and trust. It gives the post personality—and sets you apart from 99% of employers.

Where to add it:
 Right before the “Who We Are” section (as done in the earlier job descriptions).

Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4

✅ Bonus Pro Tip:

Consider adding a quick note like this before your “How to Apply” section:

“We believe your time is valuable—and your application deserves respect. That’s why we review every submission and respond promptly.”

It costs nothing. But it feels like you care. And that’s what great candidates remember.

Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?

(Here’s How to Use It the Smart Way)

With one click, AI can write you a job description.
 And with that same click… it can drive away top talent.

Here’s the reality:
 AI tools like ChatGPT, Workable, and Manatal can help you save time. But when used without the right input, they produce posts that are vague, boring, and generic—exactly what you’re trying to avoid.

❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone

  • You’ll end up with lifeless, checkbox content filled with buzzwords like “detail-oriented” and “team player.”

  • The job post won’t reflect your company’s real voice, culture, or values.

  • It attracts the wrong candidates—those applying to anything, not those aligned with your mission.

  • And worst of all, it reflects poorly on your brand. A bland post gives off the impression that your company is bland, too.

✅ The Smarter Way to Use AI

AI works best when you bring the ingredients.

Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Write down what makes the role and your company unique:

  • What your company does

  • What the role will help the team accomplish

  • What your culture feels like

  • What kind of person succeeds on your team

  • Your salary range, perks, and benefits

  • Your hiring process (especially if you’re using WorkScreen)

Step 2: Prompt the AI with that context.
 Here’s a sample prompt you can copy:

“Help me write a job description for [Insert Job Title] at [Insert Company Name]. We’re a [describe your company briefly]. The role will help with [insert key responsibilities]. Our culture is [insert culture tone], and we’re looking for someone who [insert traits]. We offer [insert benefits and salary range]. Here’s our hiring process: [insert steps].”

Step 3: Feed the AI your notes

“Here are a few bullet points I’ve written [paste notes here]. Use these as the foundation and help me polish the tone and structure.”

Step 4: Edit the output
 Make sure it sounds human. Adjust the tone to reflect your brand voice. Add a video link, reword the CTA, and tailor the intro.

Bottom Line:
 AI is a tool—not a replacement for your judgment.

If you want a job post that attracts high-quality candidates, you still need to do the thinking.
 Let AI handle the polishing, not the positioning.

Don’t let bad hires slow you down.

WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.

Copy-Paste Compliance Manager Job Description Templates

Need a quick, ready-to-use job description?

We get it—sometimes you’re in a hurry. You understand what makes a strong post (especially if you’ve read this far), but you still want something solid to start with.

That’s what these are.

✏️ Important Reminder:
 Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
 This is a foundation, not a final draft.
 Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.

In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.

Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.

  • Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
  • Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.

✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)

Job Title: Compliance Manager | [Company Name] | [Location] | [Salary Range]

🎥 Watch a Quick Message from Your Hiring Manager
 Here’s a short video from the person you’ll be reporting to. Get a feel for how we work and what success in this role looks like:
 👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube link]

About the Role
 We’re looking for a Compliance Manager to help us stay sharp, ethical, and confident as we grow. You’ll take the lead in building systems, translating regulations into clear policies, and making sure the entire team understands what compliance looks like in action—not just on paper.

Who We Are
 [Company Name] is a [brief company description: what you do, who you serve, and what your values are]. We believe in long-term thinking, high standards, and doing the right thing—even when it’s hard. That’s why we see compliance not as a checkbox, but as a core part of how we operate.

What You’ll Do

  • Build and maintain the company’s compliance systems and documentation

  • Monitor and interpret relevant laws, regulations, and industry changes

  • Conduct risk assessments and internal audits

  • Lead training and onboarding for compliance best practices

  • Partner with operations, HR, legal, and leadership to reduce risk

  • Manage incident response and reporting

What You’ll Need

  • 3–5 years of experience in compliance, legal, or regulatory roles

  • Strong working knowledge of [insert relevant frameworks—e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, SOX]

  • Excellent attention to detail and ability to document processes

  • Comfortable translating complex policies into simple language

  • [Insert degree/certification, if required]

Why This Role Is a Great Fit
 This isn’t a box-checking job—it’s a strategic role where your input shapes how the business operates. You’ll work directly with decision-makers and help define what responsible growth looks like. If you’ve ever wanted to build something meaningful and long-lasting, this is your opportunity.

Perks and Benefits

  • Salary range: [Insert Salary Range]

  • Job Type: [Full-Time or Part-Time]

  • Health, dental, and vision coverage

  • Paid time off and sick leave

  • Remote or hybrid work options (if applicable)

  • Learning and development budget

  • [Other perks: mental health support, wellness stipend, etc.]

How to Apply
 We use WorkScreen to create a fair and streamlined hiring process.
 👉 Click here to start your short application and skill evaluation: [Insert WorkScreen link]

📄 Option 2: Structured Job Description Template (Traditional Format)

Job Title: Compliance Manager
 Job Type: [Full-Time or Part-Time]
 Location: [Location or Remote]
 Salary: [Insert Range]

Job Brief
 [Company Name] is hiring a Compliance Manager to oversee and improve our internal compliance systems. You’ll be responsible for ensuring we meet industry regulations, maintain ethical standards, and minimize operational risk as the company grows.

Who We Are
 [Company Name] is a [short company description—what you do and why it matters]. Our team values transparency, accountability, and clarity in everything we do—from how we operate internally to how we serve our clients.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and implement internal compliance procedures

  • Monitor regulatory developments and update policies accordingly

  • Conduct internal audits and generate reports for leadership

  • Organize compliance training across departments

  • Manage incident tracking and ensure resolution

  • Maintain detailed and accurate documentation of all activities

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Law, Business, or related field

  • 3–5 years of experience in compliance or regulatory affairs

  • Familiarity with [insert specific regulations relevant to your industry]

  • Excellent communication and organizational skills

  • Analytical mindset and strong documentation habits

Perks and Benefits

  • Competitive salary: [Insert Range]

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • PTO, sick leave, and holidays

  • Professional development support

  • Flexible work arrangements (if available)

How to Apply
 We use WorkScreen to identify the most qualified applicants quickly and fairly.
 👉 Start your evaluation and application here: [Insert WorkScreen link]

Why You Should Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step

Writing a strong job post is just the beginning.
 Now comes the hard part: figuring out who’s actually qualified—and who just knows how to say the right things.

That’s where WorkScreen comes in.

WorkScreen helps you:

Spot top candidates without guesswork

WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.

Test for real-world skills—fast

With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.

Eliminate low-effort and AI-generated applications

WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.

Create a hiring experience candidates actually respect
 Because WorkScreen isn’t just built for companies—it’s built for humans. Every applicant gets a fair shot based on performance, not bias or background.

The takeaway:

 If you want to hire smarter, faster, and with more confidence, let WorkScreen do the heavy lifting.
 It’s the modern way to build great teams—without wasting time or settling for mediocre hires.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Compliance Manager

Beyond knowledge of laws and regulations, a great Compliance Manager needs strong soft skills and critical thinking abilities. Here are the key traits to prioritize:

  • Attention to detail: Compliance work lives in the details—small oversights can lead to big risks.
  • Analytical thinking: They should be able to interpret complex regulations and apply them practically within your business.
  • Clear communication: Explaining policies across teams (legal, HR, operations) requires the ability to simplify and influence.
  • Integrity and discretion: You need someone you trust to make decisions that protect your business—even when no one’s watching.
  • Proactive mindset: Great Compliance Managers don’t wait for problems—they anticipate and prevent them.

Salaries vary based on industry, experience, and location. That said, here’s a general overview (U.S. averages):

  • Entry-level Compliance Coordinator: $55,000–$70,000
  • Mid-level Compliance Manager: $85,000–$105,000
  • Senior Compliance Lead / Director: $115,000–$150,000+

Industries like healthcare, finance, and SaaS tend to offer higher salaries due to stricter regulations and higher risk.

You should consider hiring a Compliance Manager when:

  • You’re operating in a regulated industry (finance, healthcare, legal, etc.)
  • Your team is growing and can no longer rely on ad hoc compliance practices
  • You’re entering new markets with unfamiliar regulations
  • You’ve experienced—or want to avoid—legal, audit, or reputational risk

Hiring early helps you build a foundation that scales with your business.

While the titles are sometimes used interchangeably, they can reflect different levels of responsibility:

  • Compliance Officer is often an individual contributor role focused on executing compliance tasks.

  • Compliance Manager typically leads compliance strategy, manages systems, and may oversee a team or cross-functional efforts.

If the person is setting the structure and influencing business decisions, “Manager” is often the more accurate title.

 

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Author’s Details

Mike K.

Mike is an expert in hiring with a passion for building high-performing teams that deliver results. He specializes in streamlining recruitment processes, making it easy for businesses to identify and secure top talent. Dedicated to innovation and efficiency, Mike leverages his expertise to empower organizations to hire with confidence and drive sustainable growth.

Hire Easy. Hire Right. Hire Fast.

Stop wasting time on unqualified candidates. WorkScreen.io streamlines your hiring process, helping you identify top talent quickly and confidently. With automated evaluations , applicant rankings and 1-click skill tests, you’ll save time, avoid bad hires, and build a team that delivers results.

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