Human Resources Specialist

What is a Human Resource Specialist?

A human resource specialist is responsible for the routine employee management tasks necessary within most companies. These professionals handle the hiring of new workers, onboarding practices, payroll management, training, and more. Depending on the size of the company, a human resource specialist may focus on a particular aspect of this career, such as training, or they may handle all human resource tasks. 

As a human resource specialist, it’s important to have strong people skills. This job may involve delicate negotiations and problem solving. Employees who are unhappy with a company’s business practices or with the actions of a co-worker will typically turn to the human resources department to help resolve the issue. A human resource specialist, then, is responsible for finding a diplomatic solution. This may involve addressing shortcomings in business policy, handling an employee’s breach of conduct, or helping management find better ways of working efficiently and amicably with others. 

Job Responsibilities

• Screening job applicants 
• Interviewing potential hires 
• Contacting applicants’ references 
• Verifying applicants’ educational and professional backgrounds 
• Hiring new workers 
• Organizing the onboarding process for new employees 
• Maintaining employment paperwork 
• Setting up training activities 
• Processing payroll 
• Administering benefits packages 
• Ensuring that companies adhere to legal requirements 
• Assisting with employee relations 
• Educating employees on policies and procedures 

What is the Career Outlook for Human Resource Specialists? 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment of human resources specialists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.  

About 78,700 openings for human resources specialists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.  

Employment growth is expected as human resources specialists are needed to explain increasingly complex employment laws and benefit options. At the same time, some companies may outsource human resources functions to organizations that provide these services, rather than directly employing human resources specialists. 

Where do Human Resource Specialists Work? 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that Human resources specialists generally work full-time in office settings. Some, particularly recruitment specialists, travel to attend job fairs, visit college campuses, and meet with applicants. 

What Training Do I Need to be a Human Resource Specialist? 

Human resource specialists are usually required to have a relevant degree for employment in this field. This background is essential to give job applicants the education needed to properly navigate the potentially complex field of human resources. If you’re interested in getting on the fast track to a career in human resources, consider the AAS Human Resource Specialist degree from Bryant & Stratton College. 

This program has 39 major requirements that cover topics like accounting, business law, ethics, business principles, compensation, benefits, workplace mathematics, employment law, labor relations, and more. It culminates in an internship/capstone experience. 

Relevant certifications can increase your employment opportunities as a human resource specialist as well. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has Certified Professional and Senior Certified Professional certifications. Some employers will require these certifications. Obtaining them voluntarily can increase your opportunities even when these certifications aren’t mandatory. 

For more insights into the AAS Human Resource Specialist degree and your career opportunities with this background, visit the human resources section of our blog. Here you’ll find a wealth of information about the possibilities awaiting you with an associate’s degree in this field.