Occupation Spotlight: Human Resources Managers
When it comes to the smooth functioning of any organization, one crucial element is often overlooked – Human Resources (HR). Human resources managers are responsible for overseeing the administrative operations of an organization’s personnel department, ensuring that the company’s employees are well-supported, respected, and that the organization’s goals align with the needs and expectations of its workforce. In this article, we will dive into the occupation of human resources managers, exploring its responsibilities, some examples of the job, the necessary education or training, advancement opportunities, and how to break into this field.
Responsibilities of Human Resources Managers
Human resources managers hold a vital role within any company, as they handle a broad range of duties related to hiring, employee relations, compensation, benefits, and more. Their responsibilities typically include:
- Developing and implementing HR policies and procedures.
- Overseeing and coordinating the recruitment and hiring process.
- Managing employee benefit programs and ensuring compliance with legal regulations.
- Handling employee relations, including conflict resolution and disciplinary actions.
- Designing and implementing employee training and development programs.
- Developing and maintaining the company’s compensation structure.
- Monitoring employee performance and conducting performance evaluations.
- Administering the organization’s health and safety programs.
- Staying up-to-date with labor laws and industry trends.
Examples of Human Resources Manager Duties
Depending on the size and needs of the organization, human resources managers perform various tasks to ensure the well-being of employees and the success of the company. Here are a few examples of what human resources managers might handle:
- Conducting job interviews and selecting candidates for specific positions.
- Devising and implementing employee engagement programs to boost morale and job satisfaction.
- Negotiating with unions or employee representatives to create collective bargaining agreements.
- Preparing and managing the HR department budget.
- Handling conflicts or issues within the workplace and implementing resolutions.
Education and Training
To become a human resources manager, a combination of education and experience is typically required. While specific requirements vary by employer and position, most companies require a bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field. Some organizations might accept candidates with extensive experience in HR in place of a degree.
Additionally, acquiring relevant certifications can enhance job prospects and demonstrate expertise in specific HR disciplines. Certifications such as the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), offered by the HR Certification Institute, are widely recognized and respected within the HR community.
Advancement and Career Progression
Advancement opportunities for human resources managers often depend on factors such as experience, education level, and the size and complexity of the organization. Entry-level positions in HR typically include roles like HR specialists or HR assistants, where individuals can gain foundational knowledge and experience before progressing to managerial positions.
As HR managers gain more experience and demonstrate leadership abilities, they may advance to roles such as HR directors or vice presidents of human resources. In larger organizations, they might specialize in specific areas, such as compensation and benefits, training and development, or labor relations.
Breaking Into the Field
If you’re new to the field of HR and aspiring to become a human resources manager, here are a few steps you can take:
- Earn a relevant bachelor’s degree in human resources or a related field.
- Consider pursuing certifications to enhance your resume and demonstrate your commitment to professional development.
- Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level HR positions.
- Build a strong network of professionals in the HR industry to learn from and potentially open doors for opportunities.
- Continuously update your knowledge by reading HR magazines, attending seminars, or joining HR-focused communities.
Salary Data
| Occupation | Job Level | Salary (Average) | Salary (Minimum) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human resources managers | Level 09 | $82,908.80 | $73,860.80 |
| Human resources managers | Level 11 | $135,720.00 | |
| Human resources managers | Level 12 | $174,449.60 | |
| Human resources managers | Not able to be leveled | $153,400.00 | $133,140.80 |
| Human resources managers | All levels (Nonunion) | $145,828.80 | $134,513.60 |
| Human resources managers | All levels (Full-time) | $146,328.00 | $135,220.80 |
| Human resources managers | Level 09 (Full-time) | $83,075.20 | $73,860.80 |
| Human resources managers | Level 11 (Full-time) | $135,740.80 | |
| Human resources managers | Level 12 (Full-time) | $174,449.60 | |
| Human resources managers | Not able to be leveled (Full-time) | $154,294.40 | $134,180.80 |
| Human resources managers | All levels (Time-based pay) | $145,808.00 | $134,284.80 |
| Human resources managers (Trenton, NJ) | All levels (Nonunion) | $177,091.20 | $148,678.40 |
| Human resources managers (Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR) | All levels (Time-based pay) | $95,076.80 | $93,932.80 |
Human resources managers play a crucial role in organizations by overseeing and managing the human resources department. They are responsible for coordinating, planning, and directing the administrative functions of an organization. This includes tasks such as recruiting and hiring employees, implementing policies and procedures, handling employee relations, managing benefits and compensation, and ensuring compliance with labor laws.
The salary data provided above indicates the average and minimum salaries for Human resources managers in various job levels and scenarios. The US national average salary for Human resources managers is $82,908.80 at Level 09, $135,720 at Level 11, $174,449.60 at Level 12, and $153,400 for positions that are not able to be leveled. It is important to note that these figures represent the national average and that individual salaries may vary depending on factors such as geographic location and experience.
The effects of unions on Human resources managers’ job can be observed in the data. The national average salary for Human resources managers who are nonunion is $145,828.80, which is slightly higher than the overall national average. This could be attributed to the collective bargaining power that unions provide to workers, leading to better wages and benefits for unionized employees. Additionally, there is a distinction between full-time and part-time Human resources managers’ salaries, with full-time positions generally commanding higher compensation. Full-time Human resources managers earn an average salary of $146,328.00, compared to the overall national average of $82,908.80.
In terms of geographies, Human resources managers in Trenton, NJ, are the best paid with an average salary of $177,091.20. On the other hand, in the Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR, area, Human resources managers earn an average salary of $95,076.80, which is significantly lower compared to the national average. The discrepancy in salaries across different geographies could be attributed to factors such as cost of living, local demand for HR professionals, and the size and competitiveness of the local job market.
In conclusion, Human resources managers play a critical role in organizations, and their salaries can vary depending on factors such as job level, union representation, and geographic location.
