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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Human Resources Specialists.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Human Resources Specialists.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 8%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Hire employees and process hiring-related paperwork.
Interpret and explain human resources policies, procedures, laws, standards, or regulations.
Maintain current knowledge of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and affirmative action guidelines and laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Becoming a Human Resources (HR) Specialist means you'll be at the heart of a company, working directly with policies related to employee relations, compensation and benefits, recruitment, and compliance with labor laws. The path to this career involves a combination of education, experience, and certain skill sets.
Most HR Specialist positions require a bachelor's degree in human resources, business, or a related field. Here’s what you should consider:
Experience is key in an HR career. Consider these steps to gain relevant experience:
HR Specialists need a specific set of skills to succeed. Focus on developing the following:
Networking can significantly impact your career as an HR Specialist. Join professional associations such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) (opens in a new tab) and attend local events to meet professionals in the field.
A solid understanding of employment laws is critical for an HR Specialist. Make sure you are familiar with the following:
The HR field is constantly evolving, so staying informed about the latest industry trends is important. Read HR publications, follow thought leaders on social media, and participate in industry forums.
By following these steps, you can build a solid foundation for a successful career as an HR Specialist. Remember to focus on continuous learning and personal development to stay ahead in this dynamic field.
Becoming a Human Resources (HR) Specialist typically requires at least a bachelor's degree. Preferred fields of study include:
Some employers may prefer or require candidates to have a master’s degree, particularly for more senior roles.
Yes, there are several certifications that can enhance your credentials as an HR Specialist:
These certifications often require passing an exam and maintaining continuing education credits.
An HR Specialist needs a mix of soft and technical skills, including:
An HR Specialist's career path may progress as follows:
With experience, some HR Specialists may choose to specialize further or move into consultancy roles.
Yes, HR Specialists are needed across various sectors. You might find opportunities in:
Each industry may have unique requirements and challenges.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of human resources specialists is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to new companies forming and existing companies expanding their human resources operations.
Advancement opportunities include:
Gaining experience, additional qualifications, and building a strong professional network are key strategies for advancement.
Staying updated can be achieved through:
Continued learning is essential for staying relevant in the evolving field of human resources.