Compensation Philosophy

Total Compensation Philosophy

Salt Lake County’s Total Compensation Philosophy is to attract, motivate, and retain quality employees who support the County mission of providing high-quality, cost-effective public services. We believe in a transparent, performance-based approach to compensation. Our goal is to compete in comparable markets for high-performing employees and recognize that public service has rewards beyond a base salary.

We strive to provide employees with competitive compensation, benefits, and retirement programs that reflect current market practices and are fiscally responsible. Our employees enjoy a superior work culture, career development, and growth opportunities, and the satisfaction of serving the public.

Guiding Principles

Salt Lake County competes with a mix of public and private sector organizations and recognizes that geographic wage differentials and areas of expertise may impact the market for talent.

Salt Lake County’s total compensation program is performance-based and incorporates civil service protections as defined by state statute.
A transparent approach to compensation will help us achieve a culture of excellence.

Rewarding employee achievements, developing employee talent, and fostering career progression reinforces a productive work climate and the County’s core values.