A company's compliance officer generally is in charge of supervising and handling issues related to compliance with laws or regulations, including making sure that the company is up to date with its licensing requirements. Often, they must report their findings to the organization's governing body and recommend any needed changes. This job is particularly essential in heavily regulated industries such as health care and financial services.

Compliance officers can work directly for the company they are servicing or for a contracting company. There are a wide range of work environments for compliance officers, who may work in an office or in the field.

This position typically requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree. Depending on the requirements of the specific field with which the compliance officer works, prior experience may be necessary. Most positions require some sort of a certification, such as a Certified Medical Compliance Officer credential for the healthcare field,or a Certified Compliance and Regulatory Professional credential for overseas banks operating in the United States. Compliance officers usually must take continuing education programs to stay up to date with laws and other information they need for effectively monitoring compliance. (Copyright 2018 PayScale.com)

Compliance Officer Tasks

• Assess product, compliance, or operational risks and develop risk management strategies.
• Conduct periodic internal reviews or audits to ensure that compliance procedures are followed.
• Conduct or direct the internal investigation of compliance issues.
• Oversee and monitor activities for compliance with company, state and federal regulations.