“How much does HR make?” That is the million-dollar question for anyone working in human resources (or considering a career in HR). Fortunately, you do not have to assume or guess what your boss or colleagues earn. In this article, I provide a detailed list of HR roles and their current salary. With forethought and strategic planning, you can use this knowledge to plan your HR career path and growth, just like this group of upwardly mobile workers did.

McKinsey’s decade-long study of nearly four million workers analyzed career advancement and lifetime incomes. The researchers discovered that those who earned much more over time did two things differently. First, they changed jobs more often. Second, when switching jobs, they took on new roles that required much different and more sophisticated skills. 

If you are readyto make your own ambitious career choices, keep reading to discover more about top HR salaries and the skills required to succeed in these positions.

Key Takeaways

• HR professionals are responsible for employee relations, payroll, benefits, and training.
• HR professionals also assist companies in maintaining a competitive edge by attracting, developing, and retaining their industry’s top performers.
• Factors that affect HR salary are: location, experience, specialization, industry and certifications.

What Do Human Resources Do?

Human resources, as a field, deals with the complex and broad realm of employer-employee relationships. You could say that We are the people who manage the people. We are in charge of the employee’s entire life cycle, from hiring to leaving the organization, and all in between. 

“The overarching goal is to make an employee’s work as comfortable and efficient as possible,” explains Belitsoft’s senior HR manager, Darya Zhih. “But the exact activities might differ from company to company.”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), HR professionals are responsible for employee relations, payroll, benefits, and training. They also recruit, screen, interview, and place employees. However, the job extends far beyond the “steps” of employment. If an employee has a problem with their management, we are here to assist. We can help people better understand their health insurance coverage. 

Jennifer Muszczynski, a talent management consultant at Combined Insurance, describes human resources as precisely what it sounds like. “A resource for employees of all levels in a number of areas. Think of human resources as the organization’s heart; without us, there is no pulse.”

Why Should You Pursue a Career in HR?

Forget the idea that HR is all about “working with people.” It is much more than that; it provides a variety of career paths and specializations to challenge and advance your professional growth. It also demands continual learning to remain on top of evolving technologies and regulations. 

Sidenote: My advice to beginners? Never Stop Studying!

HR professionals are strategic partners that create realistic plans to align a company’s workforce with its goals. We also assist companies in maintaining a competitive advantage by attracting, developing, and retaining their industry’s top performers.

HR is also at the forefront of organizational transformation, driving initiatives and adopting technology that influences the company’s culture and future. Ultimately, our efforts have a direct impact on employee well-being and satisfaction, which promotes a productive work environment and influences business growth and sustainability.6

See Also: Is Human Resources a Good Career Choice for You? A Detailed Guide for Your HR Journey

Types of Human Resources Careers 

If you are looking for HR career opportunities, you’ll have plenty of options. HR professionals often play many roles in smaller or fast-growing businesses, assuming the job of HR Generalist. 

However, as businesses grow, HR functions become more niche, creating interesting opportunities for specialization. This includes:

• Strategic HR: Entails working with the organization to align its people strategy with the company’s overall goals. 
• Recruitment and Talent Acquisition: Focuses on developing the employer brand and attracting and retaining top candidates to fill open positions. 
• Compensation and Benefits: This involves creating programs to attract and retain top workers by providing competitive packages and bonuses. 
• Diversity and Inclusion Effort: Aim to create a workplace in which everyone feels respected and valued. 
• Talent Management: This entails managing the entire employee lifecycle. 
• Training and Development: Provide employees with the skills they require to succeed and improve. 
• Organizational Development: Involves implementing changes and transformations. 
• Data Analytics: Analyzes workforce data to make more informed HR choices, optimize processes, and assess program effectiveness. 
• Industrial Relations: Includes managing employer-employee interactions, addressing issues, mediating disputes, and negotiating with unions.
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensures legal and regulatory compliance.

See Also: 14 Entry-Level Human Resources Jobs: All You Need to Know

How Much Does Human Resources Make?

Being informed of HR salary ranges can help you negotiate more favorable pay, maximize your career achievement, and ensure financial stability. Let’s learn about each HR designation’s responsibilities and average yearly income in the United States.

#1. Chief People Officer (CPO) 

A Chief People Officer (CPO), also known as a Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), is a C-suite executive who develops an organization’s overall people strategy. Large, forward-thinking organizations that value talent management usually hire an HR Director who oversees day-to-day HR operations and reports to the CPO. 

A successful CPO is data-driven and uses analytics to make strategic decisions. They also have good leadership and communication skills. Their primary focus is on aligning HR with overall business goals and turning HR strategy into measurable business results. 

How Much Does a CPO Make?

The average CPO earns $370,947 in total compensation, with an estimated salary and bonus range of $283,000 to $498,000.

#2. HR Manager 

An HR Manager is usually in charge of all day-to-day employee functions, including recruitment, training, employee relations, and benefits. HR Managers have a wider portfolio than HR Specialists, as they manage multiple functions and personnel. 

An HR Manager also oversees HR Assistants and Coordinators who do administrative work and support basic HR responsibilities. Strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills are desirable qualities for an HR Manager. They should also be familiar with employment laws and regulations. 

How Much Does an HR Manager Make?

The average salary and bonus for an HR Manager is $116,037, with an estimated pay range of $87,000 to $156,000.

See Also: HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER JOBS: Thrive in Human Resources Managerial Roles!

#3. HR Director 

An HR Director is in charge of the entire HR department, including employee-related responsibilities. This includes strategy planning, budgeting, and labor law compliance. The director oversees HR Managers, HR Specialists, and Employee Relations Specialists. 

Their essential skills include strategic thinking to predict future workforce needs, proactive problem-solving, and fostering a positive company culture to build high-performing and motivated staff. 

How Much Does an HR Director Make?

The typical total pay for an HR Director is $211,645 with a salary and bonus range of $159,000 to $287,000.

#4. Benefit Manager 

A Benefits Manager is in charge of ensuring that employee benefit programs follow regulations and suit the needs of employees. They research plans, negotiate with providers, and explain benefit information to employees. It is necessary to have strong communication and negotiation skills, as well as knowledge of benefit plans and HR rules. 

What distinguishes an HR Benefits Manager from other HR positions is their expertise in benefit trends and data analysis, which they use to create cost-effective and appealing packages for the organization. 

How Much Does a Benefits Manager Make?

The average Benefits Manager earns $130,714 in total, with a salary and bonus range of $99,000 to $174,000.

#5. HR Business Partner 

An HR Business Partner (HRBP) serves as a strategic counsel to specific divisions within an organization. They operate as a liaison between human resources and business units in larger organizations, ensuring that HR processes are in line with departmental goals and contribute to the company’s overall success. 

An HRBP must have great business acumen and a grasp of how HR affects the bottom line. To develop good relationships with business executives, they must also possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills. This position also values strategic thinking and experience as an HR Generalist. 

How Much Does an HRBP Earn?

The average HRBP earns $169,444 in salary and incentives, while entry-level and highest total pay ranges from $131,000 to $222,000.

#6. Talent Manager 

A Talent Manager is in charge of managing talent supply and demand within the company, in accordance with talent requirements and workforce planning. They are in charge of developing, implementing, and establishing succession planning strategies, talent management, and development programs to maximize employee potential and fulfill future business requirements. 

A Talent Manager also helps design and implement career development strategies, tools, and resources. They must be experts in the internal talent market for a wide range of functions and can advise business teams on trends and possibilities. 

How Much Does a Talent Manager Make?

The average Talent Manager earns $138,057 in total income, with an estimated salary and bonus range of $63,000 to $138,000k.

#7. HR Operations Manager 

An HR Operations Manager oversees the HR department’s day-to-day operations, ensuring that payroll, benefits administration, and record-keeping run smoothly. This position requires experience with HR software as well as strong organizational skills. Additionally, knowledge of employment law and an aptitude for problem-solving are beneficial. 

How much does an HR Operations Manager make? 

The average Senior HR Operations Manager earns $190,257 in total, with salaries and incentives ranging from $131,000 to $268,000.

#8. Learning and Development Manager 

A Learning and Development Manager builds a skilled workforce by identifying employee learning needs and developing training programs to meet them. They plan and organize sessions, manage budgets, and assess effectiveness to ensure that employees have the information and skills necessary to excel in their roles and contribute to the company’s goals. Strong communication and instructional design skills, as well as experience with adult learning, are required for this position. 

How Much Does a Learning and Development Manager Earn?

The typical total pay for a Learning and Development Manager is $137,852, with salary and bonuses ranging from $55,000 to $130,000.

#9. HR Project Manager 

An HR Project Manager directs and oversees initiatives within the HR department. They plan, develop, and carry out projects to improve or grow HR programs, such as introducing new software or redesigning the recruitment process. 

Success in this position necessitates HR expertise and project management skills. Strong communication, research, and analytical skills are required, as well as experience managing budgets and deadlines. 

How Much Does an HR Project Manager Make?

The typical total pay for an HR Project Manager is $154,827, with salary and incentives ranging from $119,000 to $205,000.

#10. Payroll Manager 

A Payroll Manager is responsible for all aspects of employee compensation, including accurate and timely payments, deductions, and tax filings. They also manage payroll software, employee benefits, and labor law compliance. Strong accounting and financial expertise, as well as experience with appropriate payroll software, are critical skills. 

How Much Does a Payroll Manager Make?

The average Payroll Manager earns $76,127 in total pay, with salary and incentives ranging from $50,000 to $106,000.

#11. HR Scrum Manager 

An HR Scrum Manager integrates HR practices into the Agile Scrum framework. They support HR procedures, manage Scrum teams within HR, and ensure that recruitment, onboarding, and training operations run smoothly. Human resource expertise, Scrum certification, and good communication and cooperation skills are all important. An HR Scrum manager must also be able to lead teams and meet tight project deadlines. 

How Much Does an HR Scrum Manager Earn?

The average HR Scrum Manager earns $181,500 in total, with salaries and incentives ranging from $147,000 to $228,000.

#12. Compensation and Benefits Specialist 

A Compensation and Benefits Specialist is in charge of designing competitive compensation packages, including salary and benefits, to recruit and retain top talent. This includes conducting research, analyzing data, and staying up to date on employment laws. This role is usually found in larger companies with complex structures. 

A Compensation and Benefits Specialist must have strong analytical skills to crunch numbers, an in-depth understanding of the job market, and exceptional communication skills to explain complex benefit packages to employees. 

How Much Does a Compensation and Benefits Specialist Make?

The average Compensation Benefits Specialist earns $99,441 in total, with a salary and bonus range of $76,000 to $132,000.

#13. HR Generalist 

In the realm of human resources, an HR Generalist is an all-rounder. They handle a variety of activities, including recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, and benefits administration. HR generalists are commonly found in small and medium-sized companies that do not require dedicated specialists for each HR function. 

To manage employee issues, an HR Generalist must possess both hard skills such as data analysis and payroll, as well as soft skills such as communication. To flourish in this role, an HR Generalist must be knowledgeable about HR regulations and adept at navigating HR information systems. 

How Much Does an HR Generalist Make?

The typical total pay for an HR Generalist is $77,129, with salary and incentives ranging from $69,000 to $85,000.

#14. Industrial Relations Specialist 

An Industrial Relations Specialist (also known as an Employee Relations Specialist) serves as a diplomat within the organization, addressing employee issues, fairness, and conflict resolution. They also serve as mediators in labor disputes. 

Industrial Relations Specialists build relationships with employees, management, and unions, enforce labor laws, and handle employee grievances and disputes. Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills, as well as a thorough understanding of employment laws, are required for this position. 

How Much Does an Industrial Relations Specialist Make?

The typical total pay for an Industrial Relations Specialist is $94,612, with salary and bonuses ranging from $72,000 to $126,000.

#15. Talent Acquisition Specialist 

A Talent Acquisition Specialist (also known as a Recruitment Specialist) is responsible for of finding skilled workers to fill vacant positions. Their primary responsibilities include finding applicants via online platforms and professional networks, reviewing résumés, conducting interviews, and organizing the hiring process. 

A Talent Acquisition Specialist must possess excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Using applicant tracking systems (ATS) and social media for recruiting also requires technical knowledge. 

How Much Does a Talent Acquisition Specialist Make?

The typical total pay for a Talent Acquisition Specialist is $112,320, with salary and bonuses ranging from $86,000 to $149,000.

#16. HR Officer 

An HR Officer (also known as an HR Representative) wears several hats. This is typically an entry-level position in the HR department that can lead to higher-level HR positions. An HR Officer is often responsible for recruiting, screening, and interviewing people, as well as managing contracts and paperwork. 

In addition, they onboard new employees and answer inquiries regarding benefits and policies. HR Officers often work with both employees and management, therefore they must have great communication and interpersonal skills. 

How Much Does an HR Officer Make?

The typical total pay for an HR Officer is $77,129, with salary and incentives ranging from $69,000 to $85,000.

#17. HR Coordinator 

An HR Coordinator is an entry-level HR professional who assists the HR department with administrative tasks. They serve as liaisons between employees and HR, answering questions, processing paperwork, managing HR data, assessing employee relations, and guaranteeing smooth HR operations. Strong organizational, administrative, and interpersonal skills are required in this role. 

How Much Does an HR Coordinator Make?

The typical total pay for an HR Coordinator is $53,394, with salary and incentives ranging from $48,000 to $59,000.

#18. HR Data Administrator 

An HR Data Administrator is responsible for ensuring that the organization’s HR information is accurate and accessible. They oversee the full employee data lifecycle, from collection and analysis to storage and retrieval in the HR system. 

This involves keeping an orderly electronic filing system for easy access and using HR technology to generate reports. They also play an important role in helping HR colleagues, managers, and stakeholders by ensuring that HR information systems work efficiently. 

How Much Does an HR Data Administrator Make?

The typical total income for an HR Data Administrator is $72,213, with a salary and bonus range of $56,000 to $94,000.

#19. HR Administrator 

An HR Administrator is the cornerstone of the HR department. They handle important administrative responsibilities. This role is usually entry- or mid-level, depending on the size and complexity of the company. 

They manage personnel information, help with new hire onboarding, answer HR policy questions and occasionally aid with payroll. This work requires strong organizational, communication, and computer skills. 

How Much Does a Human Resources Administrator Make?

An HR Administrator’s total income averages $60,750, with salary and bonuses ranging from $55,000 to $67,000.

Factors Affecting Human Resources Salary 

Several factors influence individual HR salary, including location, skills and experience, specialization, and HR certifications. 

Location 

Location is a key factor in determining HR salaries. In general, salaries in the United States are higher than in Canada or the United Kingdom. 

This trend continues in the United States, with larger cities with higher costs of living, such as New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, generally paying higher salaries.

Years of Experience

Years of experience, like with most occupations, play an important role in determining salary. 

For example, when I was an HR manager with less than two years of experience, I was paid a lot less than what I earn now with more than six years of experience.

Specialization 

An HR manager who specializes in a particular area, such as succession planning, recruitment, or organizational design, could earn higher pay. 

Critical HR Skills that pay well. Source: Indeed.

Industry 

According to Glassdoor, the highest-paying industry for HR professionals is pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.

The highest-paying industry for HR professionals. Source: Glassdoor

Certifications 

Another factor that can impact an HR manager’s salary is whether they hold any certifications. There are several ways to become a certified HR manager. 

Many schools and universities provide bachelor’s degrees and diplomas in human resource management. Many approved institutions provide shorter certificate programs, and many human resource organizations provide their own certification programs. Certifications gave me a major boost in my career and salary too.

In Summary

Knowing the HR industry’s salary standards will help you plan a fulfilling career with opportunities for growth and fair compensation. Use the information in this article to set goals, improve your skills, and pursue opportunities that will help you move up the HR salary and career ladder.

FAQs

Does HR Make a Lot of Money?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), human resources professionals earn an average annual salary of more than $100,000.

Is Human Resources a Good Career?

Yes!! Human resources is one of the fastest-growing career paths in the United States. In addition to high earning potential, a career in human resources can be personally fulfilling and long-lasting. It can even lead to an executive-level position within an organization.

What Do HR People Do?

HR functions are typically divided into five functions: talent management, compensation and benefits, training and development, compliance, and workers’ safety.

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• WHO IS A HUMAN RESOURCE GENERALIST: Skills & Qualities of a HR Generalist
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• What Is Human Resource Development: Positive Impact of HRD

References

• Glassdoor.com
• Aihr.com
• Peoplemanagingpeople.com