Human resources specialists and managers deal with people as an essential part of the job. These individuals recruit and interview employees, and advise on hiring decisions in accordance with policies and requirements that have been established in conjunction with top management.  Many human resources specialists and managers work a standard 35- to 40-hour week.  Not all of them work in an office; some travel extensively or even work at home. 

   Human resources specialists and managers held about 544,000 jobs in 1996, being employed in virtually every industry.  About 15,000 specialists were self-employed, working as consultants to public and private employers.  The private sector accounted for about 86 % of salaried jobs.  Federal, State and local governments employed 14% of salaried human resources specialists and managers. 

   In filling entry- level jobs, employers generally seek college graduates.  Some employers prefer applicants who have majored in human resources, personnel administration, or industrial and labor relations; others look for college graduates with a technical or business background; and still others feel that a well-rounded liberal arts education is best.  An advanced degree is increasingly important for some jobs including labor relation jobs that require a graduate study in industrial or labor relations. 

   The job market for human resources specialists and managers is likely to remain competitive through 2006,due to an abundant supply of qualified college graduates and experienced workers.  Employment demand should be strong among firms involved in management, consulting, and personnel supply.  Job growth could be limited by the widespread use of computerized human resources information systems that make workers more productive. 

   According to a salary survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, bachelor’s degree candidates majoring in human resources, including labor relations, received starting offers averaging $25,300 a year in 1996; master’s degree candidates, $39,900.  Personnel specialists with limited experience had median earnings of $23,700 to $28,500 a year.  Personnel supervisors/managers with limited experienced earned between $54,000 and $65,200 a year.

Mary McCaskey