Skill path
How to become a HR Specialist
How to become a HR Specialist: skill roadmap with 5 core skills, degree usually required, courses and salary data. Updated weekly.
Education & experience requirements
- Education
- Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
- Experience
- A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.
- On-the-job training
- Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Foundations
Skills assumed by employers — the base to build on
- HR laws and regulationsFoundation
Legal rules governing employment, including labor rights and anti-discrimination. HR specialists ensure organizational compliance. Learn through legal updates, HR certifications, and human resources education.
- HRIS systemsFoundation
Human Resources Information Systems for managing employee data. HR specialists use these for efficient record-keeping and reporting.
- Recruitment principlesFoundation
Methods to attract, screen, and select suitable candidates. HR specialists use these principles to hire effectively. Learn through HR education and practical recruitment experience.
- Employee relations basicsFoundation
Managing workplace relationships and addressing conflicts. HR specialists use these skills to maintain a positive work environment. Learn through interpersonal skills training and conflict resolution techniques.
Core skills
The skills that define the role today
- Data PipelinesHigh demand
Automated processes that move data between sources and destinations. Employers need reliable data flow for analytics. Learn by building simple pipelines with workflow tools.
- WorkdayHigh demand
Cloud-based software for HR, finance, and planning. Employers seek it for integrated data management and real-time analytics. Learn by practicing in Workday test environments and reviewing official documentation.
- ExperimentationHigh demand
Conducting controlled tests to gather data. Professionals use this to validate hypotheses and optimize processes or products.
- Design ToolsHigh demand
Software for creating visual content and layouts. Art directors and designers use these to develop branding and marketing materials.
- Machine LearningHigh demand
AI that learns from data to make predictions or decisions. Used by scientists and managers to analyze complex data and automate tasks.
Tools in demand
Specific tools that appear in live postings
- Applicant trackingIn demand
Using software to manage job postings and resumes. HR specialists use it to streamline hiring workflows. Learn through software tutorials and HR system usage.
- WorkdayIn demand
Cloud-based software for HR, finance, and planning. Employers seek it for integrated data management and real-time analytics. Learn by practicing in Workday test environments and reviewing official documentation.
- ATSIn demand
Applicant tracking system for recruitment. Needed to manage candidates. Learn via system-specific training.