Human Resources Manager
O*NET-SOC: 11-3121.00
Plans, directs, and coordinates the administrative functions of an organization, overseeing recruiting, employee relations, compensation, benefits, training, and regulatory compliance.
About this Role
Human resources managers oversee the people side of an organization, handling everything from hiring and onboarding to pay, benefits, employee disputes, and compliance with employment law. They spend much of their day in meetings: discussing staffing needs with department heads, interviewing candidates for open roles, mediating workplace conflicts, and briefing senior leaders on workforce trends like turnover rates or hiring timelines. Between meetings, they review resumes, draft job postings, update employee handbooks, and work in HR software systems to track headcount, compensation data, and performance reviews.
A Day in the Life
8:00 AM
Review staffing reports
Check the HR system for open positions and recent resignations, then prioritize which roles need to be filled first based on business needs.
9:00 AM
Conduct recruitment interviews
Lead a panel interview for an open role, evaluate candidates against the job requirements, and compare notes with hiring managers.
11:00 AM
Handle an employee relations case
Meet with an employee who filed a workplace complaint, gather facts from both sides, and begin drafting a resolution that follows company policy.
12:30 PM
Lunch break
Eat lunch while scanning industry newsletters for changes in employment law that might affect company policies.
1:30 PM
Analyze workforce data
Pull turnover and retention numbers from the HR system, spot trends, and prepare a summary for the leadership team.
3:00 PM
Facilitate a training session
Run a workshop for new hires covering company values, workplace conduct expectations, and available employee resources.
4:30 PM
Update policies
Revise the onboarding checklist to reflect recent changes in benefits offerings, then send it to legal for review.
5:30 PM
Team check-in
Meet briefly with HR staff to delegate open tasks and answer questions about payroll or benefits issues before the end of the day.
Tools & Technologies
ERP Systems
- PeopleSoft
- SAP
- Deltek Vision
- Infor ERP SyteLine
- Kronos Enterprise Workforce Management
Office Suites
- Microsoft Office
- Corel WordPerfect Office Suite
Spreadsheets
- Microsoft Excel
- IBM Lotus 1-2-3
Email
- Microsoft Outlook
- IBM Notes
Presentations
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Mentimeter
Time Tracking
- Kronos Workforce Timekeeper
- ADP ezLaborManager
- ADP Pay eXpert
- Data Management TimeClock Plus
- Exact Software Macola ES Labor Performance
Salary Details
Certifications, Training & Memberships
Essential
Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
HR Certification Institute (HRI)
Demonstrates knowledge of HR fundamentals including employment law and strategy.
Certified Federal HR Professional
National Institutes for Government HR Officers
Covers government-specific HR practices like merit systems and public sector compliance.
Recommended
Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
HR Certification Institute (HRI)
Focuses on strategic HR management and leadership in complex organizations.
SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)
Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
Tests competencies in HR behaviors and knowledge areas relevant to all sectors.
Helpful
SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)
Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
Emphasizes advanced strategic and operational HR leadership.
Professional Memberships
International Public Management Association for HR (IPMA-HR) Membership
IPMA-HR
Provides networking and resources tailored to public sector HR professionals.
Work Environment
- Remote Work
- Hybrid (Remote + Office)
- Work Setting
- Traditional office / indoor
- Physical Activity
- Mostly sedentary
- Social Interaction
- Highly collaborative — frequent team interaction
- Schedule
- Extended hours common
Your Skills & Attributes
Skills & Competencies Matches (46)
- Active ListeningStrong Match
- Reading ComprehensionStrong Match
- SpeakingStrong Match
- Management of Personnel ResourcesStrong Match
- WritingStrong Match
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Human Resources Manager a good career?
Human Resources Manager can be a rewarding career choice. Based on current data, the median salary is $130K and job outlook is stable (5% projected growth). Whether it's a good fit depends on your skills, interests, and values — take our quiz to find out how well you match.
What degree do you need to become a Human Resources Manager?
The typical education requirement for a Human Resources Manager is a Bachelor's Degree. However, requirements can vary by employer and specialization. Some professionals enter the field with alternative credentials or relevant work experience.
How long does it take to become a Human Resources Manager?
Becoming a Human Resources Manager typically requires about 4 years of undergraduate study. Additional time may be needed for certifications, internships, or on-the-job training depending on the specific role and employer requirements.
What is the work-life balance like for a Human Resources Manager?
The work-life balance for a Human Resources Manager is moderate, with some periods requiring extended hours or flexibility. Individual experiences vary based on employer, specialization, seniority level, and geographic location.
What is the job outlook for Human Resources Manager?
The job outlook for Human Resources Manager is stable. Employment is projected to grow by 5% over the coming decade. Labor market conditions can vary by region and specialization.