Human Resources Officer

Human resources (HR) officers hire employees and help develop their careers, and look after employee relations, benefits and welfare.

Typical Salary

£15,000 To £50,000

Typical Hours

38 to 40 a week
between 8am and 6pm

How To Become a Human Resources Officer

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
  • specialist courses run by professional bodies

College / University

You'll usually need a a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree course in:

  • human resources management
  • a combined degree such as business management and human resources
  • a related subject
  • 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in any subj
  • Employers may prefer you to have relevant qualifications like those offered by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

    • CIPD Level 5 Award in Human Resources
    • CIPD Level 5 Certificate/Diploma in Human Resources Management
    • Level 5 Diploma in Business Management and Human Resources

    Apprenticeship

    You can get into this role through an advanced apprenticeship as a HR Consultant.

    Routes into this Career

    You could start as an business administrator in a company's HR department, and work your way up through training and promotion.


    Other Routes

    You can study a range of professional qualifications in human resources, either online or at a training centre approved by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.

    Skills And Knowledge

    You'll need:

    • administration skills
    • knowledge of human resources and employment law
    • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
    • customer service skills
    • the ability to work well with others
    • sensitivity and understanding
    • excellent verbal communication skills
    • the ability to read English
    • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

    Day To Day Tasks

    Your daily tasks may include:

    • dealing with complaints and discipline procedures
    • assisting in the recruitment of new employees
    • working with other managers, improving employees' experiences of the workplace
    • keeping employee records
    • helping people get training and development
    • making sure employees have the right pay and benefits
    • arranging employee services such as welfare and counselling
    • promoting equality, and health and safety
    • advising on matters like pay negotiations, redundancy and employment law
    • developing HR policies and procedures
    • recording and analysing confidential information
    • writing employee handbooks
    • dealing with staff at all levels

    Working Environment

    You could work in an office or from home.

    Career Path & Progression

    You could become a member of CIPD to show your professional status and continue your professional development.

    With experience, you could progress into senior management. You could also set up your own consultancy offering recruitment services or advice on policy planning.

    There are opportunities for human resources specialists in the armed forces. Find out more at:

    Volunteering Opportunities

    Volunteering Opportunities are not listed for this job.

    Tips & Information

    Professional and industry bodies

    You may find it useful to join organisations like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

    Further information

    You can find out more about careers in human resources from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and Personnel Today.

    Restrictions & Requirements

    Restrictions & Requirements are not listed for this job.

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