what is an HR administrator?
As an HR administrator, your work is a blend of administrative responsibilities and human resources functions. Some companies assign the HR administrator role primarily to handle administrative tasks, while others require you to cover both areas. Technically, the role of an HR administrator is less about direct employee services and more focused on managing company policies, handling data, and overseeing employee relations.
what are the responsibilities of an HR admin?
Many people often confuse an HR administrator with an HR generalist, but these are separate roles. For example, an HR generalist handles all employee-related issues, while an HR administrator supports the HR manager with daily tasks such as processing new hires, managing HR data systems, and documenting policies. In large organizations, the HR administrator role is divided into specialized areas, such as payroll administration or data entry. However, in smaller companies, your role as an HR administrator will encompass all HR functions, including recruitment, training, and employee relations. Because of this, HR administrators in smaller organizations gain broader exposure and a wider range of experience.
As an HR administrator, you need to understand the complexity of data management. Since you play a crucial role in handling the flow of information between employees and managers, strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential.
Do you think your data management skills are suitable for a career as an HR administrator? Keep reading to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to excel in this role.
find jobsthe average salary of an HR administrator.
According to Paylab and Randstad Romania's internal resources, the average salary for an HR administrator is approximately 5,000 - 5,500 RON net per month. Initially, your earnings start from around 3,000 - 3,500 RON net per month, but as you gain experience and knowledge, your salary increases and can even exceed 6,800 RON net per month.
In addition to the base salary, most companies offer bonuses and benefits such as private health insurance, allowances, or transportation reimbursements. Some companies also provide year-end bonuses and overtime pay for extended work hours.
factors that affect the salary of an HR administrator.
There are several factors that determine your salary as an HR administrator. If you want to improve your compensation package, you need to develop your credentials. Becoming an HR administrator requires formal training, and your level of education influences your salary. For this reason, obtaining additional certifications or qualifications can make you eligible for a salary increase. Besides salary, the scope of your responsibilities also impacts your earnings. For example, if you manage a small team of employees, you'll earn less than an HR administrator responsible for hundreds or even thousands of employees.
Some responsibilities of the position also come with a range of benefits. Typically, if you're handling complex HR issues, you receive a higher salary. Even the location impacts the compensation package due to variations in the cost of living and the demand for HR services in different areas. Large cities offer better opportunities for HR managers and tend to have a higher cost of living, which is reflected in higher salaries. Smaller towns have a lower cost of living, which generally results in a lower compensation package.
types of HR administrators.
As an HR administrator, you can specialize in one of the responsibilities. Some of the types of HR administrators include:
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HR coordinator
As an HR Coordinator, you facilitate human resources programs. Your responsibilities include scheduling onboarding sessions, coordinating training sessions, and managing employee issues. Additionally, you analyze industry trends and help the company develop better HR processes.
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employee relations
The HR administrator is responsible for employee relations and maintaining a harmonious work environment. This includes addressing inappropriate behavior in the workplace and finding ways to resolve conflicts between employees. Additionally, you are responsible for onboarding new hires, managing documentation, and processing personnel files.
career as an HR administrator.
If you're interested in a career as an HR administrator, keep reading to learn about the working hours and specific responsibilities.
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job description for HR administrator
Each organization has its own unique tasks and responsibilities for an HR administrator, but the general duties include:
- Maintaining Employee Records: As an HR administrator, you are responsible for updating and securely storing employees' mandatory documents. You need to record the necessary details, ensure they are up-to-date, and provide them when required. In addition to validating the records, you must also input them into the company's HR information system.
- Organizing Interviews: The HR administrator works closely with recruiters to ensure they have the necessary resources to conduct interviews. This involves compiling the list of pre-selected candidates and making sure the hiring manager has all the required documents. Additionally, you’ll coordinate interview spaces and communicate with the shortlisted candidates. An HR administrator maintains contact with potential candidates throughout the entire selection process.
- Maintaining company policies and procedures: Whenever managers update the organization’s HR policies and procedures, these changes are communicated to the HR administrator. Your role is to document the updates and inform employees about the changes. Sometimes, you may need to organize training sessions to ensure employees are familiar with the new procedures.
- Onboarding Process Preparation: As an HR administrator, you ensure that new employees feel welcomed by organizing the onboarding process. You will conduct office tours and IT setup, prepare their workspace, and identify any additional skills or training they may need.
- Payroll Data Management: Your task is to gather the necessary data for processing salaries. This means verifying accuracy and ensuring that the payroll team has all the relevant information.
- Employee Request Management: As an HR administrator, you are the first point of contact between employees and management. Your role is to relay employee requests and questions to the manager. Additionally, you may clarify any questions that arise regarding company policies or procedures.
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work environment
As an HR administrator, your work primarily takes place in an office setting. You spend your day reviewing HR data and preparing the necessary documents at the office. Occasionally, you may need to travel to organize training sessions or interviews if they are held at external locations. Typically, as an HR administrator, you work internally, providing services to a single employer. However, some HR administrators are employed by HR consulting firms and serve multiple clients. This means you may need to visit your clients from time to time.
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who are your colleagues?
As an HR administrator, your colleagues may include the hiring manager, the compensation and benefits manager, and HR specialists, depending on the organization's resources. You might also work closely with HR business partners, HR directors, and HR strategists, as well as other professionals such as recruiters or recruitment consultants, accountants, and team leaders.
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work program
Your work schedule as a HR Admin Specialist depends on whether you choose full-time or part-time employment. Depending on the company and role, your hours will range from 35 to 40 hours per week. A full-time HR administrator typically works standard office hours, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. As a HR Aadministrator, you may occasionally work on weekends, especially if the company is hosting training sessions or orientation programs. There may also be opportunities to work in the evenings for company events, employee celebrations, or holiday parties. Part-time positions for HR administrator are available at consulting firms.
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career perspective
In large organizations, the role of HR administrator is an entry-level position in the human resources field. From here, you can advance to a management role or specialize in various areas within HR. Most HR administrator enhance their skills and become HR managers, HR strategists, and eventually HR directors. Alternatively, there are different specializations available for HR administrators, such as payroll specialists, employee relations specialists, or recruiters. With expertise and years of experience, you can also move into consulting.
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the advantages of finding an HR administrator job through randstad
Finding a job as an HR administrator through Randstad offers significant advantages such as:
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a wide variety of training and development opportunities
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a contact person, experienced and available to get in touch with if needed.
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a wide range of opportunities
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temporary and permanent contracts
Are you looking for a permanent contract? A temporary job as an HR administrator is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent position. Every year, thousands of people secure permanent contracts with trusted employers thanks to temporary jobs found through Randstad. Plus, many companies also recruit their permanent staff through Randstad!
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education and training required for HR administrator.
There are several ways to start a career as an HR administrator.
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university
You can earn a bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Management, or Psychology.
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apprenticeship
After earning your diploma, you can now gain experience as an intern in a general administrative role or in the human resources department.
Although most HR administrators receive on-the-job training, some employers also require a Human Resources Inspector course. This will maximize your chances of landing the role you want.
skills and competencies.
An HR administrator needs a solid set of skills, including soft skills, to succeed, including:
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computer skills
As an HR administrator, you need basic computer skills to assist with data management and other HR functions. Knowledge of MS Office applications like Excel, PowerPoint, and Word makes your work easier.
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organizational skills
Your role involves juggling multiple tasks, and some may fall behind without strong organizational skills. Administrative abilities help you prioritize tasks and boost your efficiency.
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communication skills
As an HR administrator, you need strong communication skills to assist employees with their questions and requests. Most of your tasks also involve interacting with job candidates, so good communication abilities will be very helpful.
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integrity and approachability
You need to be approachable and trustworthy so that employees feel safe. This way, they’ll feel comfortable discussing sensitive issues with you. Additionally, you should provide employees with good advice regarding their questions.
frequently asked questions (FAQs).
Frequently asked questions about a career as an HR administrator.
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what does an HR administrator do?
An HR administrator handles all administrative functions within the human resources department. Their responsibilities include compiling employee data and monitoring company procedures and policies.
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what qualifications are needed to become an HR administrator?
To become an HR administrator, you need to have a qualification as a Human Resources Inspector or a bachelor's degree in Human Resources. Alternatively, you can participate in on-the-job training programs.
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what is the salary of an HR administrator?
The salary varies depending on expertise and area of responsibility. As an HR administrator, you can expect an average net monthly salary of 5,000 to 5,500 RON. An HR Admin with minimal experience will earn around 3,000 to 3,500 RON net per month, and with more experience, it’s possible to earn over 6,800 RON net per month.
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is there a difference between a HR generalist and a HR administrator?
The difference between a HR Generalist and a HR administrator lies in their responsibilities. HR Admin focuses on office functions and data management, while HR Generalist handles all aspects of human resources.
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why would you want to be an HR administrator?
The role of HR administrator is an interesting career if you enjoy working with people. If you like working in an office environment, this position could be a good fit for you.
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how can I apply for a role as an HR administrator?
Applying for a HR administrator job is easy: create a profile on Randstad and browse our HR administrator positions in your area. Then, simply send us your CV. If you don’t have a CV yet, no worries we’ll help you create one. Need assistance with your application? Check out all our career tips here! Want to stay updated on the latest trends and insights in the job market? Download the newest reports and research here.
