How to Become a Compliance Officers in Washington
Compliance Officers in Washington earn a median salary of $86,200/year, which is 10% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a compliance officers takes home approximately $4,340/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a compliance officers can afford in Washington
Becoming a compliance officers in Washington
Meet education requirements
Compliance Officers positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many compliance officers positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for compliance officerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 10,820 compliance officers. The highest concentrations are in Bellingham and Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue.
Compliance Officers salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bellingham | $102K | $48.98/hr | 650 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $95K | $45.87/hr | 6,090 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $91K | $43.83/hr | 390 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $82K | $39.45/hr | 970 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $78K | $37.65/hr | 110 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $78K | $37.55/hr | 110 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $77K | $36.86/hr | 740 |
| Longview-Kelso | $76K | $36.5/hr | 80 |
| Yakima | $75K | $36.25/hr | 270 |
| Walla Walla | $72K | $34.59/hr | 60 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $66K | $31.95/hr | 220 |
Compliance Officers salary range in Washington
Compliance Officers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a compliance officers make in Washington?▼
The median compliance officers salary in Washington is $86,200 per year ($41.44/hr). This is 10% above the national median of $78,420. Salaries range from $56,670 to $138,840.
What are the requirements to become a compliance officers in Washington?▼
Compliance Officers positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a compliance officers afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $86,200, a compliance officers in Washington would take home approximately $5,752/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 24.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for compliance officers in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for compliance officers in Washington are Bellingham ($101,870), Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($95,410), Kennewick-Richland ($91,160). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for compliance officers?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means compliance officers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.