What Does a Human Resources Manager Do?
Human Resources Managers are generally employed by mid-size companies or large corporations that have a dedicated Human Resources department to oversee staffing policies, improve employee retention and motivate staff through creating employee wellness initiatives. Human Resources Managers ensure compliance with industry regulations, keep detailed records of job descriptions, schedule interviews for job candidates and conduct onboarding and new employee orientation. They field complaints from employees and use a structured system to respond to any issues within an organization. Human Resources Managers also manage benefits administration, update payroll and communicate with staff about policy changes.
Human Resources Manager Skills and Qualifications
A high-quality candidate for a Human Resources Manager position will have an array of skills and qualifications. The skills people need for the role include both soft, transferable skills and hard skills, such as knowledge of specific software. Job listings may include educational requirements and a specified number of years of relevant work experience. A list of qualifications and skills may include:
- A bachelor’s degree in human resources, labor relations, organizational development, business or related area; relevant work experience may be a substitute
- Effective verbal and written communication skills
- Demonstrated proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite
- Experience with the human resources information system (HRIS) used by your company, such as Workday, Zoho People, Cloud HR, SmartRecruiters and others
- Knowledge of a broad range of human resource strategies and practices, including compensation, performance management, safety, hiring and employee relations; able to apply these strategies and practices in compliance with employment regulations
- Ability to create a culture of diversity, inclusivity, collaboration and teamwork
- Experience with analyzing data to guide strategic employment planning
Human Resources Manager Salary Expectations
The average salary for a Human Resources Manager is $73,400 per year. The salary can range from $22,000 to $155,000, depending on the size of the company and its geographic location.
Human Resources Manager Education and Training Requirements
Human Resources Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as human resources, business or even finance. Coursework in information technology and conflict management can be helpful as well. A Human Resources Manager doesn’t usually need certifications, but professional associations such as The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) provide programs for voluntary certifications that may make candidates more appealing. A job posting may include that these certifications aren’t necessary but are preferred.
Human Resources Manager Experience Requirements
Candidates for this managerial position will have previous experience in the human resources field with demonstrated competence in leading teams and organizing and executing strategic plans. Previous work experience for Human Resources Managers often includes roles such as Human Resource Specialist or Labor Relations Specialist. Candidates should be able to show how their previous jobs gave them experience with employment and labor laws, conflict resolution, compensation strategy and other human resources programs.
Job Description Samples for Similar Positions
Is the human resources manager job description not quite what you’re looking for? Here are some job description templates for similar positions.