As a human resources coordinator, you play a vital role in an organization’s staffing and employee development efforts. You are often the first person in your company that a potential employee comes into contact with, so you are the public “face” of the organization.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of human resources managers and specialists is projected to increase by 22% through 2018. This growth bodes well for human resources coordinators seeking to establish a long-term career in this popular field.
Human resources coordinators assist the senior members of the organization’s human resources team in helping to maintain accurate records, coordinating recruiting activities, reviewing resumes, scheduling employment interviews, and checking backgrounds and references.
Additionally, they may help conduct benefits seminars and answer questions about enrolling in company-sponsored health insurance, dental, life insurance and 401(k) programs. Human resources coordinators also help ensure that all company policies and procedures continue to comply with federal and state laws.
Most human resources coordinators are required to keep a close eye on employee turnover rates and may prepare turnover and retention reports for upper management. They may also play a role in helping employees and managers measure performance factors or implement proper disciplinary actions.
Human resources coordinators generally work a 40-hour week, and enjoy vacation time, sick leave and other benefits. Depending on the size of the company, they may accompany senior human resources personnel to other job sites to assist with benefits enrollment or other activities.
According to PayScale.com, as of July 2010, human resources coordinators around the country can expect median salaries in the following ranges:
| New York | $39,620 - $51,087 |
| Houston | $36,572 - $49,795 |
| Chicago | $35,326 - $50,575 |
| Atlanta | $34,525 - $45,991 |
| Dallas | $34,169 - $44,154 |
| San Francisco | $40,855 - $53,153 |
| Los Angeles | $39,597 - $56,644 |
Associate’s degree holders often begin their careers at the lower end of the salary scale. However, further education, experience and certification can lead to the best job opportunities and higher salaries.
Human resources coordinators need to be responsive, flexible and diplomatic in working with a variety of personalities throughout the company. Key skills include a clear speaking voice, solid interviewing techniques, advanced computer proficiencies and discretion. The first step for those looking to become a human resources coordinator can be an associate’s degree in the liberal arts.
A typical AA in Liberal Arts program allows students to:
As a liberal arts degree holder, you’ll be a stronger candidate for jobs and promotions – and you’ll have the flexibility to pursue a wide variety of career paths. A liberal arts degree is valued by many employers because it represents a well-rounded education.
If you like interacting with a wide range of people and personalities, handling different projects every day, managing a great deal of responsibility and being in charge of administrative duties, then a human resources coordinator job may be an excellent career choice for you.
