The Department of Labor (DOL) handbook also states that demand may be particularly strong for certain specialists. For example, employers are expected to devote greater resources to job-specific training programs in response to the increasing complexity of many jobs and technological advances that can leave employees with obsolete skills. Additionally, as highly trained and skilled baby boomers retire, there should be strong demand for training and development specialists to impart needed skills to their replacements. In addition, increasing efforts throughout industry to recruit and retain quality employees should create many jobs for employment, recruitment, and placement specialists.
HR Management Salaries
Annual salary rates for human resources workers vary according to occupation, level of experience, training, location, and firm size. In 2006 the median annual earnings of compensation and benefits managers was $74,750. The average was between $55,370 and $99,690 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $132,820.
The median salary for training and development managers was $80,250. The average ranged between $58,770 and $107,450 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $141,140.
HR Management Education and Certification Requirements
College graduates who have earned certification have the best job opportunities. Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in human resources, human resources administration, or industrial and labor relations are in demand; those with a technical or business background or a well-rounded liberal arts education will also find opportunities.
Many colleges and universities have programs leading to a degree in personnel, human resources, or labor relations. Some offer degree programs in human resources administration or human resources management, training and development, or compensation and benefits. Depending on the school, courses leading to a career in human resources management may be found in departments of business administration, education, instructional technology, organizational development, human services, communication, or public administration, or within a separate human resources institution or department.
An advanced (master's) degree is increasingly important for some jobs. Many labor relations jobs require graduate study in industrial or labor relations. A strong background in industrial relations and law is highly desirable for contract negotiators, mediators, and arbitrators; in fact, many people in these specialties are lawyers. A background in law also is desirable for employee benefits managers and others who must interpret the growing number of laws and regulations. A master’s degree in human resources, labor relations, or in business administration with a concentration in human resources management is highly recommended for those seeking general and top management positions.
In addition to a college degree, certification is seen as a sign of competence and credibility that can enhance your employment and advancement opportunities.
Next Step?
Visit the Military.com School Finder to find an accredited school that can help you get the degree and certification you need to help you start a career HR Management.
