Noun
A thing given in recognition of service, effort, or achievement.
Verb
Make a gift of something to (someone) in recognition of their services, efforts, or achievements.
Synonyms
noun. remuneration - recompense - prize - requital - premium
verb. requite - recompense - remunerate - repay - compensate
So he should be ok as long as no-one 'recognises' his efforts.