logo
Close
We're open for Clearing
The University of Law ranks 10th in the UK for quality of teaching in National Student Survey 2024. Find out more

careers

Human Resources Officer

What does a human resources officer do?

A role in developing, advising on and implementing policies relating to the effective use of staff in an organisation. The overall goal is for a settled, motivated workforce with the right balance in terms of skill and experience, with training and development opportunities to enhance performance and achieve the company’s business aims.

Relaxed student studying

Apply

Applications are now open for our undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including online, part-time and business options.

Postgraduate apply ➔

Discover our business courses

What skills does a human resources officer need?

  • Organisational skills
  • Commercial awareness
  • Numerical skills - a strong set of IT skills is needed if you’re required to manage or operate payroll and benefits systems
  • A thorough approach to work and strong attention to detail
  • Good interpersonal skills that enable you to form effective working relationships with people at all levels of an organisation
  • Knowledge of HR and employment law
  • Sensitivity and understanding
  • Integrity and approachability so that people feel they can discuss confidential issues with you
  • Administration skills
  • Customer service skills
  • Ability to interpret statistical data
  • The ability to form working relationships with people at all levels
  • Influencing and negotiation skills
  • Willingness to challenge organisational culture where necessary.

What are the responsibilities of a human resources officer?

Human resources officers add value to the company they support and deal with staff at all levels in organisations. 

They could:

  • Plan and put into place employee training and development activities
  • Help recruit new employees
  • Liaise with a range of people involved in policy areas such as staff performance and health and safety 
  • Undertake regular salary reviews
  • Give advice on pay negotiations, redundancy and employment law  
  • Maintain confidential employee information 
  • Keep up to date with equality, health and safety laws
  • Arrange employee support services like welfare and counselling
  • Give advice on sickness absence, performance and employment relations
  • Deal with grievances and implement disciplinary procedures
  • Develop HR planning strategies, which consider immediate and long-term staff requirements 

How to become a human resources officer?

There are many ways to become a human resources officer, from completing an undergraduate degree, to an apprenticeship. Sometimes people may work towards this role once they are already employed by a company. There are also specialist courses offered by professional bodies, which could aid career progression.

Recommended courses

How much does a human resources officer make?

Entry level human resources roles start from £18,000 to £23,000. HR officers can earn up to £35,000, whereas HR managers can make up to £55,000. Salaries for HR directors can reach £80,000.

Useful links

For more information on jobs and what to expect from this career, please visit some of the most widely used sites for careers support.

Employability

Find out how we can support you to get the best start possible to your career.

Discover more

About us

Find out more about us including our mission and vision for the future of education.

Discover more