What is an HR administrator?
An HR administrator acts as the first port of call to employees and external partners for all HR related queries. They help manage the human resources department from answering employee questions, preparing HR documents to updating personnel records.
How to become an HR administrator?
There is no set entry route to become a human resources assistant but it may be useful to do a relevant subject like:
- Level 3 Award in Human Resources Essentials
- Level 3 Certificate in Human Resources Practice
- Level 3 Diploma in Skills for Business Human Resources
You can also get into this role through an advanced apprenticeship in HR support. This will typically take 18 to 24 months to complete.
HR administrator duties
HR administrator duties are diverse and depend on the employer and specialty, but some responsibilities are common to most:
- Maintain physical and digital personnel records like employment contracts and PTO requests
- Update internal databases with new hire information
- Create and distribute guidelines and FAQ documents about company policies
- Process internal arrangements such as travel, training sessions, and team-building events
- Maintain internal records, which may include preparing, issuing and filing company documentation (e.g. sick leave, maternity leave, etc.)
- Setting up interviews and corresponding with prospective employees in a timely manner
HR Administrator skills
To be an effective HR administrator, you’ll need certain skills and competencies. The following are often cited in job vacancies:
- Excellent telephone, verbal, and written communication skills
- Sound knowledge of labor laws and practices
- The ability to keep sensitive information confidential
- Must be approachable and helpful
- Strong critical thinking skills
- Good ethical judgment
- Strong administration skills
- Familiarity with business software such as Microsoft Office
- The flexibility and willingness to learn
How to find an HR administrator job
These jobs are advertised online, in local newspapers and at your local jobcentre. To find all the HR administrator jobs near you, you need to:
- Search for HR administrator jobs on popular job websites such as; Indeed, Total Jobs and CV Library
- Use the DWP’s Find A Job Service
- Check local newspapers and local Facebook groups, especially groups dedicated to local jobs
What does a HR administrator do?
The job of a HR administrator varies depending on the job role and the company you’re working for. Check the duties and responsibilities of HR administrator job advertisements to find jobs that best suit your skills and experience.
The day-to-day tasks of a HR administrator include;
- Answer enquiries
- Maintain computerised staff records
- Write documents like letters and reports
- Update employee holiday and sickness records
- Produce staff handbooks and newsletters
- Record discussions during disciplinary procedures
- Organise meetings and take minutes
- Set up recruitment and training events