Human Resources Specialist
Human resources specialists recruit and hire employees, manage benefits and policies, and help with workplace issues and training.
What does a human resources specialist do?
HR specialists handle the people side of an organization. They post jobs, screen candidates, conduct interviews, manage onboarding, answer benefits questions and help resolve workplace concerns. Some specialize in recruiting, benefits, training or compliance. Experienced managers and supervisors often have relevant skills from years of hiring and managing staff.
Typical responsibilities
- Recruit, screen and interview job candidates
- Process new hires and onboarding
- Explain benefits and policies to employees
- Help resolve workplace concerns
- Keep personnel records accurate and confidential
- Support compliance with employment laws
Skills and qualifications
Useful skills
- Interpersonal communication
- Discretion and fairness
- Knowledge of employment laws
- Organization
- HR software and applicant tracking systems
- Problem solving
Common qualifications
- A bachelor's degree is typical, often in human resources, business or communications
- Professional HR certifications are widely recognized and can strengthen applications
- Experience in supervising or administrative roles is often valued
Working conditions
- Where the work happens
- Offices in nearly every industry, staffing agencies and remote or hybrid teams.
- Physical demands
- Mostly desk, phone and meeting work.
- Remote work
- Sometimes available, depending on the employer. Remote human resources jobs
- Part-time work
- Rare. Most of this work is done in person.
- Pay
- Pay varies by employer and location, and we don't estimate it. Current listings that state pay show it on each job. For national figures, see the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (opens in a new tab).
How to get started
- Identify HR-related tasks you have already done, such as hiring, training, scheduling or handling employee concerns.
- Learn the basics of current employment laws and how applicant tracking systems work.
- Consider a recognized HR certification if listings in your area ask for one.
- Start with HR assistant, coordinator or recruiting roles if you are new to the field.
- Small businesses and nonprofits sometimes need part-time or contract HR help.
Experience that transfers
- Management or supervision: Hiring, coaching and handling employee issues are core HR tasks.
- Teaching or training: Employee training and development use the same skills.
- Administrative work: Records, scheduling and confidential paperwork carry over.
- Military personnel roles: Personnel administration and policy experience are relevant.
Frequently asked questions
Can I move into HR after managing people for years?
Yes. Experience hiring, coaching and handling employee issues is relevant. You may need to learn current employment law basics and HR software. A recognized certification can help show formal knowledge. Starting in a recruiting or HR generalist role is common.
Is HR work available part-time?
Less often than full-time. Small businesses sometimes hire part-time or contract HR help, and experienced professionals can consult on policies, hiring or training. Larger employers usually hire HR staff full-time.
Will my age help or hurt in HR?
Experience often helps in HR, where judgment and handling sensitive conversations matter. Ageism exists, though. Show that your knowledge of laws and tools is current. You also understand how hiring works, which can help you present yourself well.