How to become a human resources specialist

Recruit, screen, interview, or place individuals within an organization. May perform other activities in multiple human resources areas.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not..A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

What human resources specialists do

• Address employee relations issues, such as harassment allegations, work complaints, or other employee concerns.
• Hire employees and process hiring-related paperwork.
• Maintain current knowledge of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and affirmative action guidelines and laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Prepare or maintain employment records related to events, such as hiring, termination, leaves, transfers, or promotions, using human resources management system software.
• Review employment applications and job orders to match applicants with job requirements.
• Interpret and explain human resources policies, procedures, laws, standards, or regulations.

Skills that matter most

• Speaking
• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Writing
• Critical Thinking
• Active Learning
• Learning Strategies
• Monitoring

Is human resources specialist a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 49% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• District of Columbia $110,970
• Massachusetts $85,630
• Washington $84,550
• New York $84,380
• Maryland $83,910

Human Resources Specialists salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.