Career Videos

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Applicant interviews… labor negotiations… employee training… salary setting. Human resources specialists perform a wide range of tasks related to ensuring an organization has the employees it needs… to achieve its goals. Human resources—or HR—specialists meet with managers to determine the qualifications they need for new employees. Then they screen applicants and conduct job interviews with the top candidates. Once an applicant is hired, HR specialists conduct employee orientations, answer questions about policies, keep employment records, and provide information on employment benefits, such as health insurance or paid vacation. HR specialists also ensure the organization complies with government regulations. Many are HR generalists, who are trained in all human resources disciplines and perform tasks throughout all areas of the department. Others specialize in a particular area, such as administering benefits and compensation, or on training and development, strategic planning, or hiring. Human resources specialists generally work full time in offices during regular business hours. HR specialists work in all kinds of organizations, including employment services, government, healthcare, and manufacturing. Those who focus on recruiting new employees often travel extensively to visit college campuses and attend job fairs. Human resources specialists usually need a bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, or a related field. Related work experience is required for some positions.