Human resources assistants support the hiring, onboarding, and employee relations work that keeps organizations running. You organize records, communicate across departments, and help managers with people-focused tasks. A bachelor's degree is typical for this role.
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You handle the behind-the-scenes work that supports human resources teams. Your day involves organizing employee files and records, processing information, and communicating with supervisors and staff about hiring and onboarding. You establish relationships with employees and managers, help coordinate recruitment efforts, and maintain the systems that track personnel matters. You read and write documentation, listen carefully to questions and concerns, and think critically about how to solve problems that come up in day-to-day HR operations.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping earn a median of $50,610 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is softer here. Employment is projected to fall 7 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 9,000 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most positions require a bachelor's degree, which typically takes four years to complete. During your studies, focus on courses in human resources, business administration, and communications. You'll develop skills in reading comprehension, active listening, writing, and critical thinking that employers value. Look for internships or entry-level roles in HR departments while you study. These experiences help you understand the work and build professional relationships that can lead to your first full-time position after graduation.
Most paths to this role involve earning a bachelor's degree, so timing and school choice matter. If you are deciding between programs or want to map out the steps from here to your first HR role, Pathly can map the human resources assistant, except payroll and timekeeping path that fits you and work through it with your counselor to build a plan that fits your situation.
You do not need a license to work as a human resources assistant, except payroll and timekeeping, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You like order and systems. You are comfortable with details, organized processes, and clear procedures. You work well with people and enjoy supporting others through structured, methodical work.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).