Job Comparison Calculator
Holistically assess two different job offers by comparing not just salary, but also benefits, commute costs, and other financial factors.
Quick Use Samples
Compare Job Offers
| Details | ||
|---|---|---|
| Base Salary | $ | $ |
| Annual Bonus | $ | $ |
| Super Rate (%) | % | % |
| Annual Leave (weeks) | ||
| Annual Commute Cost | $ | $ |
| WFH Days/Week | ||
| Other Benefits | $ | $ |
Comparison Results
Based on total compensation, Senior Developer at Company B is the strongest offer with a value of $127,008. This is $16,919 more than the next best offer. This calculation includes base salary, super, bonuses, and the value of benefits like leave and work-from-home savings.
| Metric | Software Developer | Senior Developer |
|---|---|---|
| Base Salary | $85,000 | $95,000 |
| Bonus | $5,000 | $8,000 |
| Superannuation | $9,350 | $11,400 |
| Annual Leave Value | $6,538 | $7,308 |
| Net Savings | $2,200 | $3,800 |
| Other Benefits | $2,000 | $1,500 |
| Total Compensation | $110,088 | $127,008 |
Winning Offer
Senior Developer at Company B
$16,919 more than the next best offer.
Non-Financial Factors
- Company Culture & Values
- Work-Life Balance
- Career Growth Opportunities
- Team & Management
- Learning & Development
Compensation Breakdown
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What is a Job Comparison Calculator?
A Job Comparison Calculator is a tool designed to provide a holistic assessment of two different job offers. It moves beyond just the base salary to include the financial value of other benefits and costs, such as superannuation, bonuses, commute expenses, and paid leave, to help you determine which offer is truly better for you financially.
Behind the Formula
The calculator creates a 'total remuneration package' value for each job. It starts with the base salary, adds the monetary value of bonuses and extra superannuation contributions, and then subtracts negative financial factors like the annual cost of commuting. By comparing the final adjusted income for both jobs, it provides a more accurate financial picture than looking at salary alone.
Expert Insights
- Non-financial factors are just as important. A higher-paying job might not be worth it if it comes with a toxic work culture, poor work-life balance, or limited opportunities for growth. These should be weighed heavily alongside the financial comparison.
- A higher superannuation contribution is a powerful, often overlooked benefit. A company offering 15% super instead of the standard 11% is providing a significant boost to your long-term wealth that a simple salary comparison would miss.
- Consider the value of extra leave. An extra week of annual leave has a direct monetary value (your weekly salary) and an indirect value in terms of improved well-being and reduced risk of burnout.
Actionable Tips
- Don't be afraid to negotiate. If one job offer is financially better but you prefer the other role, use the data from the comparison to see if they can match the competing offer, for example, by increasing the super contribution or offering a sign-on bonus.
- Ask for the 'total rewards statement' from HR. Many large companies provide this document, which outlines the full value of your salary, benefits, and other perks.
- Think long-term. A job with a slightly lower starting salary but with clear pathways for promotion, a strong training budget, and a better title might be more valuable for your career trajectory than a job that pays more now but offers no growth.
Real-World Examples
Public Sector vs. Private Sector
A job in the public sector offers a lower salary ($90k) but a 15.4% superannuation contribution and more paid leave. A private sector job offers $100k but only the standard 11% super. The calculator shows the total package for the public sector role is actually more valuable.
Startup vs. Corporate
A startup offers a higher salary and potential stock options but no bonus. A corporate job offers a lower salary but a guaranteed 10% annual bonus. The calculator helps to compare the guaranteed income from the corporate role against the higher-risk, higher-potential-reward startup offer.
Considering the Commute
Job A is closer to home with a commute cost of $2,000/year. Job B pays $5,000 more but has a commute cost of $8,000/year. The comparison calculator highlights that Job A is financially better once the commute is factored in, even with the lower salary.
Glossary of Terms
Total Remuneration Package
The complete financial value of a job offer, including base salary, superannuation, bonuses, allowances, and other benefits.
Superannuation
Australia's retirement savings system. Employers must pay a percentage of an employee's earnings into a nominated super fund.
Sign-on Bonus
A one-time payment made by a company to a new employee as an incentive to join the company.