what is an HR assistant?
A human resources assistant plays a key role in supporting HR functions within a company. Their primary responsibilities include assisting with recruitment, employee relations, payroll administration, and workplace compliance. HR assistants serve as a crucial link between employees and management, helping to resolve conflicts, facilitate training programs, and ensure company policies align with employment laws.
see all jobsaverage HR assistant salary
Your salary as an HR assistant varies depending on experience, industry, location, and the type of company you work for.
- Entry-Level Salary: $38,000 - $45,000 per year
- Mid-Level Salary (5+ years experience): Up to $70,000 per year, especially for those with specialized skills in payroll, compliance, or talent acquisition.
Average Salary in the US:
- Annual: $40,500
- Monthly: $3,375
- Weekly: $780
- Hourly: $19.50
Top-paying states for HR Assistants:
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access our tooltypes of HR assistant
Your specific role as an HR assistant depends on the area of human resources you support. Some common HR assistant roles include:
- Generalist HR Assistant – Provides administrative support across all HR functions, including scheduling meetings, managing employee records, and assisting with policy implementation.
- Payroll HR Assistant – Supports payroll processing by maintaining accurate employee records, tracking hours worked, and assisting with benefits administration.
- Employee Relations HR Assistant – Helps ensure compliance with labor laws, updates policies, and assists in conflict resolution between employees and management.
- Talent Acquisition HR Assistant – Supports the hiring process by screening resumes, scheduling interviews, and coordinating onboarding activities.
working as an HR assistant
As an HR assistant, you handle a variety of administrative and employee-focused tasks, such as:
- Assisting with recruiting, onboarding, and training new employees.
- Managing employee records and HR databases.
- Processing payroll and benefits enrollment.
- Ensuring compliance with federal and state employment laws.
- Assisting with conflict resolution and employee relations.
- Supporting HR managers with reports and policy updates.
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what does an HR assistant do?
As an HR assistant, you handle a variety of administrative and employee-focused tasks, such as:
- Assisting with recruiting, onboarding, and training new employees.
- Managing employee records and HR databases.
- Processing payroll and benefits enrollment.
- Ensuring compliance with federal and state employment laws.
- Assisting with conflict resolution and employee relations.
- Supporting HR managers with reports and policy updates.
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work environment of a HR assistant
HR assistants typically work in office settings within a company's HR department. Some roles may offer hybrid or remote work options, especially for administrative-focused HR functions.
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who are your colleagues?
As an HR assistant, you work closely with HR managers, recruiters, payroll specialists, and employee relations professionals. You assist with hiring, payroll processing, and compliance with workplace policies. Your role also involves collaborating with department managers and employees to ensure efficient HR operations.
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work schedule
Most HR assistants work full-time, Monday to Friday, with standard business hours. However, some companies may offer flexible schedules depending on workload and company policies.
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career opportunities as a HR assistant
Since HR assistant roles are entry-level, they provide excellent opportunities for career advancement. With experience and additional education, you can move into specialized HR roles such as:
- HR Generalist
- Recruiter/Talent Acquisition Specialist
- Payroll Specialist
- Employee Relations Manager
- HR Manager/HR Director
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advantages of finding a job as a HR assistant through randstad
Working with Randstad offers you a range of benefits.
always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
HR assistant skills and education
Most HR assistant roles require at least an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field. Some employers may also require certifications or prior HR experience.
Key Skills for HR Assistants:
- Proficiency in HR software (HRIS, ATS, payroll systems).
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Basic knowledge of employment laws and HR best practices.
- Organizational and multitasking abilities.
- Problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills.
Certifications That Can Boost Your Career:
- Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
- Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)
- Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)
FAQs about HR assistant jobs
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about human resources assistant jobs.
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what skills are required for an HR assistant?
While a degree is often preferred, some companies accept candidates with relevant work experience or HR certifications.
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what does an HR assistant do?
The tasks assigned to a human resources assistant vary depending on the company's specific needs. To excel in this role, you should possess or develop the following key skills and qualities:
- Excellent listening and oral/written communication skills.
- Strong understanding of workplace behavior and conflict resolution.
- Ability to recognize and address relational issues among employees.
- Capability to build trust between managers and staff.
- Proficiency in office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
- Knowledge of finance, economics, and corporate laws.
- Comfort using various communication tools (phone, email, social media, video conferencing, etc.).
- Diplomacy and discretion when handling sensitive matters, such as warnings, reprimands, or dismissals.
- Bilingualism is a strong asset; many companies prefer HR assistants who speak both English and Spanish or French.
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how much does an HR assistant make in US?
HR assistants in the US typically earn between $38,000 and $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. The average salary is around $40,500 annually or $19.50 per hour. Salaries tend to be higher in states like California, New York, and Massachusetts.
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do you need a degree to be an HR assistant?
In the U.S., most employers prefer HR assistants to have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field. However, some companies hire candidates with relevant work experience, HR certifications (such as PHR or SHRM-CP), or strong administrative skills. Gaining experience with HR software and understanding employment laws can also help you qualify for this role.
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how long does it take to become an HR assistant?
Becoming an HR assistant in the U.S. typically takes 2-4 years, depending on your education and experience. Earning an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in human resources or a related field can take two to four years. However, some candidates enter the field more quickly by gaining administrative experience, completing HR certifications like PHR or SHRM-CP, or securing an internship to build relevant skills.
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how do I find a job as an HR assistant?
Finding an HR assistant job in the U.S. starts with having a strong resume highlighting your HR skills, education, and certifications. You can search for job openings on online job boards, company career pages, and networking sites like LinkedIn. Gaining experience through internships, temp positions, or administrative roles can also help you break into the field. Working with a staffing agency specializing in HR roles, like Randstad, can connect you with top employers and provide career support.
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