Human resources (HR) assistants use their skills to assist the human resource departments of companies to facilitate the functioning of the workspace and ensure development of the workforce. HR assistants assist HR departments with daily and special tasks, including facilitating communication between employees and company executives and providing employs with essential access to information. HR assistants may be required to complete a number of responsibilities, including maintaining programs to increase employee safety and efficiency, new employee training and orientation, and promoting company culture.
HR assistants often work with compensation and benefits for employees, as well as record keeping and providing other employee services. HR assistants support many areas of new employee hiring, including scheduling initial interviews, completing reference checks and changes in personnel. They may also spend time assisting with executive administration.
HR assistants generally work indoors in office settings during daytime hours, but may be required to attend outside events for employee orientation, training, workshops and team enrichment activities. Most HR assistants complete their work with the use of computerized systems of information management. HR assistants work closely with HR departments and with individual employees, are tasked with answering questions for employees regarding policy and procedures, and may refer employees to a specialist when needed. HR assistants are required to compile and present statistical data on employees; assist in projects, events and open enrollment; arrange for meetings; and facilitate communication amongst departments and employees. The position generally requires mental acuity and very little physical labor. A high school diploma or experience working in an office setting is usually required.
Human Resources (HR) Assistant Tasks
- Supports employment area with scheduling interviews, handling reference checks and personnel changes.
- Provides overall administrative support to the HR department, including maintaining, processing documentation and records.
- Compiles and prepares data for statistical reporting.
- Answer employee questions about policy and procedures, and refers to specialist as needed.
- Assist in projects, such as; HR events, benefits open enrollment, employee communications and company-wide meetings.