Companies have an almost constant need to attract talented and skilled workers and managers to their organization. A larger company may have its own dedicated recruiting department that hires recruiting specialists, but there are also companies that specialize exclusively in recruiting; these companies also employ recruiting specialists and subcontract their services to companies.

Specialists are typically tasked with filling jobs that are management level or that otherwise require specific skills, education, or certifications. The specialist works with the various department heads and human resources (HR) managers to determine what positions may need filling and in what time frame. He or she identifies clearly all aspects of the positions, including a detailed job descriptions, location, compensation, and benefits. The specialist then takes this information and initiates contact with qualified prospective employees and begins the interview process.

Much of the recruiting specialist’s job is spent searching and communicating online. A recruiter must possess excellent skills and familiarity with social media and job-search websites, as many of the contacts he or she makes may occur through postings on employment-related sites. The specialist must also be an excellent communicator, as contact work in this field is done through email, phone, and even traditional physical letter-writing. In most cases, the specialist performs initial screening interviews by phone or in person and then passes on the most qualified candidates to specific department managers for final interviews.

To work as a recruiting specialist, a bachelor's degree is generally required, with preference given to persons with degrees in business, human resources, psychology, or another relevant field. Specialists typically work in an office environment during regular business hours. Due to some requirements for face-to-face interviews, recruiting specialists may be required to travel as part of the job. (Copyright 2018 PayScale.com)

Recruiting Specialist Tasks

• Establish and maintain relationships with hiring managers to stay abreast of current and future hiring and business needs.
• Advise managers and employees on staffing policies and procedures.
• Arrange for interviews and provide travel arrangements as necessary.
• May be involved in writing and placing advertising for open positions in publications; online and print.
• Source, screen and interview applicants to obtain information on work history, training, education, and job skills for open positions; may utilize ATS.