HR Administrative Assistant: Job Duties and Requirements

Human resources (HR) administrative assistants support management-level staff and perform a variety of tasks related to employee record-keeping within organizations. They often handle sensitive employee and company information, which requires that they maintain a high level of professionalism and confidentiality.

View 18 Popular Schools

Job Duties for HR Administrative Assistants

Human resources administrative assistants often provide both HR-specific and general administrative and secretarial support, depending on the size of their company or HR department. Entry-level positions may require HR administrative assistants to file employee-related documents, answer department telephones, relay messages and distribute information to employees. They provide direct support to executives by scheduling meetings and appointments, making travel arrangements and processing expense reports.

HR administrative assistants with intermediate office skills may be responsible for editing documents and presentations, entering and updating employee information into company databases, preparing employment packages, handling benefits information and processing termination paperwork. These professionals also assist HR staff with specified projects, such as planning company events.

At the advanced level, administrative assistants in HR create forms, templates and other HR-related documents. They explain company policies and procedures to employees. Supervised by an HR manager, they may also perform payroll and timekeeping functions. Some HR administrative assistants handle essential recruitment tasks, including posting job openings, reviewing resumes, calling candidates and scheduling interviews.

Job Requirements

Many companies request that applicants have two or more years of general administrative experience or a human resources background. Employers also desire candidates who have strong computer and time management skills, a basic understanding of the HR role and experience using productivity software. Individuals with an associate's degree from an accredited college or technical school program may have a competitive edge over those with a high school diploma.

While on-the-job training is generally available, some companies prefer applicants to have a working knowledge of HR-specific software and information systems. Other desirable traits include demonstrated teamwork and customer service skills. Candidates with the ability to meet tight deadlines, perform multiple tasks and work well under pressure may be in high demand for HR assistant positions.

Employment Outlook and Salary Information

In 2013, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported an annual median salary of $49,290 for executive secretaries and executive administrative assistants who support management-level staff. These workers were projected to see a decline of 1%, from 2012-2022, compared to the 12% projected increase for secretaries and administrative assistants in general.