[Remote] Sales Operations, Principal

Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. Zillow is a leading real estate platform in the U.S. seeking a Sales Operations Principal to drive the strategy, design, and execution of sales compensation programs. This role involves partnering with various teams to ensure effective compensation systems that align with business objectives and enhance sales performance.ResponsibilitiesOwn end-to-end compensation strategy and design for Sales, including plan architecture, performance metrics, and incentive structures aligned to business goalsLead scenario modeling and decision-making, evaluating tradeoffs across cost, risk, and behavioral incentives; provide clear recommendations to senior leadershipDrive cross-functional alignment with Sales, Sales Finance, FP&A, HR, and Data teams to ensure compensation plans are well-designed, understood, and effectively executedEstablish and evolve performance frameworks, including quota setting, target-setting methodologies, and plan mechanics that balance motivation, fairness, and financial disciplineInfluence sales strategy through data-driven insights, proactively identifying trends, risks, and opportunities to improve performanceEnsure integrity and scalability of compensation data systems, partnering with Data and Ops to define durable data sources, reporting, and ensure frontline visibilityCommunicate complex compensation concepts clearly to stakeholders at all levels, including Sales leadership and executivesSkills8–10+ years of experience in sales compensation, sales operations, finance, or a related analytical/strategy roleDemonstrated experience owning compensation design end-to-end, not just supporting or administering plansProven ability to make strategic decisions and evaluate tradeoffs in ambiguous, high-stakes environmentsStrong analytical and modeling skills, with experience using data to inform business decisions and influence stakeholdersTrack record of driving cross-functional alignment and influencing senior stakeholders without direct authorityDeep understanding of sales performance metrics, incentive structures, and compensation design principlesHigh attention to detail with strong ownership over data accuracy and system integrityExcellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex analyses into clear business insightsExperience operating in a lead or principal-level IC role with broad ownership and autonomyExperience working closely with Sales Finance, FP&A, and executive leadership teamsFamiliarity with compensation systems (e.g., Xactly), CRM platforms, and BI toolsExperience in high-growth or scaling sales organizationsStrong business judgment and comfort navigating ambiguity and evolving business needsBenefitsIn addition to a competitive base salary this position is also eligible for equity awards based on factors such as experience, performance and location.Employees in this role will not be paid below the salary threshold for exempt employees in the state where they reside.Company OverviewZillow is an online real estate marketplace for finding and sharing information about homes, real estate, and mortgages. It is a sub-organization of Zillow Group. It was founded in 2005, and is headquartered in Seattle, Washington, USA, with a workforce of 5001-10000 employees. Its website is http://www.zillow.com.Company H1B SponsorshipZillow has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 12 in 2026, 179 in 2025, 150 in 2024, 171 in 2023, 256 in 2022, 239 in 2021, 195 in 2020. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.