1.8: Working in Human Resources
- Evaluate human resource management as a career
The go-to site for evaluating occupations is the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook , an online publication that describes occupations and summarizes data projections for (currently) the 2016–2026 timeframe. [1]
Human resource positions profiled include the following:
- Human Resources Specialist. Provide development and administrative support for one of the human resource functions.
- Labor Relations Specialist. Interpret and administer labor contracts regarding issues such as wages and salaries, healthcare, pensions, and union and management practices.
- Training & Development Specialist. Help plan, conduct, and administer programs that train employees and improve their skills and knowledge.
- Compensation & Benefits Manager. Plan, develop, and oversee employee compensation programs.
- Human Resources Manager. Plan, direct, and coordinate human resources functions broadly, including strategic planning and advice and employee relations.
A summary of key data for these roles in included in Table 1 Note that although the BLS site uses the term human resources specialist to refer to specialists, generalists and recruiters, the roles are generally distinct. A human resources specialist usually focuses on one of the four human resource management functions whereas a generalist supports all four functions and a recruiter focuses the recruiting function.
| Job Title | 2018 Salary /1 | Growth Rate /2 | Entry-Level Education | Relevant Work Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Resources Specialist | $60,880 | 7% | Bachelor’s degree | None |
| Training & Development Specialist | $60,870 | 11% | Bachelor’s degree | Less than 5 years |
| Compensation, Benefits & Job Analysis Specialist | $63,000 | 9% | Bachelor’s degree | Less than 5 years |
| Labor Relations Specialist | $67,790 | –8% | Bachelor’s degree | Less than 5 years |
| Compensation & Benefits Manager | $121,010 | 5% | Bachelor’s degree | 5 years or more |
| Human Resources Manager | $113,300 | 9% | Bachelor’s degree | 5 years or more |
| 1/ Median pay | ||||
| 2/ Projected change in employment from 2016-2026. The average growth rate for all occupations is 7%. |
For additional perspective on salaries—in particular, for specific positions, employers and/or markets (for example, geographic area or industry), use company review and salary reporting site Glassdoor.com, compensation data site Salary.com or associated job postings.
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"Occupational Outlook Handbook." Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed July 29, 2019.
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
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