Human Resources Officer

Job Description:

Human resources (HR) officers hire, develop and look after employees in a company - plan policies, advise on company benefits etc.

Job Category:
Professional Services

What you will do:

Your day-to-day tasks may include:

  • leading an organisation’s HR team (leadership skills)
  • supporting managers in getting the best out of their staff
  • planning staff policies
  • designing and advising on company benefits packages
  • training and developing staff
  • handling complicated HR issues
  • working to improve employee relations
  • managing budgets

Skills:

You’ll need:

  • knowledge of human resources and employment law
  • business management skills
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

As well as:

  • administration & organisational skills
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
  • the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
  • excellent written communication skills
  • sensitivity and understanding
Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

You’ll usually need human resources (HR) experience, and an HND or degree in HR management, business management or a related subject. Some companies have general management or HR graduate training schemes.

In the UK, it’s also common to have a qualification from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

You could find work in an HR department as an administrator and work your way up.

Working Hours and Environment:

You’ll work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. You may sometimes have to work extra hours to meet deadlines.

You’ll be mainly office-based, but with some travel to meetings, especially if you work for a company with more than one site.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience, you could set up your own consultancy offering recruitment services, training, or advice on HR strategy and policy planning.