what is an HR administrator?

An HR administrator is responsible for overseeing various aspects of employee relations within an organisation. HR administrators are essential to the functioning of any company, as they handle tasks that directly contribute to employee welfare, recruitment and training. If you have a knack for organisation and enjoy working with people, a career as an HR administrator could be a great fit for you.

As an HR administrator, you are in charge of managing employee records, implementing HR policies and assisting with employee recruitment. Additionally, you might be responsible for coordinating employee training programmes, benefits administration and handling employee grievances. HR administrators play an essential role in the success of any organisation, as they help manage the most valuable resource – its employees. Being an HR administrator means handling various tasks related to employee management and working with a diverse group of people, from new hires to experienced professionals.

If you like the description of being an HR administrator, read on to find out more about the profession, including the skills you'll need and the opportunities available to you.

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average salary of an HR administrator

According to Payscale, the average salary of an HR administrator is ₹337,426 per year. Typically, an entry-level HR administrator can expect to earn upwards of ₹180,000 per annum. As you gain experience and advance in your career, your earnings can increase significantly, with senior HR administrators earning upwards of ₹770,000 annually.

factors that affect an HR administrator’s pay

Several factors can influence the salary of an HR administrator. Experience is one of the most significant determinants of salary. As you gain experience and take on more responsibilities, your salary can increase considerably. Education and certifications also play a role in determining salary. Those with relevant HR certifications and degrees are typically more attractive to employers and can command higher salaries.

Location is another key factor. HR administrators in cities with a higher cost of living, such as Mumbai or Delhi, tend to earn more than those in smaller towns. Regional variations in salary can be significant, and organisations in metropolitan areas generally offer better compensation packages.

The size of the employer also impacts salary. Larger organisations typically have more complex HR needs and, therefore, offer higher salaries for HR administrators. In contrast, smaller companies may have limited budgets for HR personnel, which can affect the earnings of HR administrators.

Skills and competencies are crucial in determining the salary of an HR administrator. Demonstrating strong interpersonal skills, proficiency with HR software and a thorough understanding of labour laws will make you more valuable to potential employers, resulting in a higher salary.

Three colleagues having a meeting in a meeting room.
Three colleagues having a meeting in a meeting room.
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types of HR administrators

The most common types of HR administrators include:

  • recruitment administrator: this role involves handling tasks related to employee recruitment, such as posting job advertisements, reviewing applications and arranging interviews. Recruitment administrators also work closely with hiring managers to ensure a smooth recruitment process and the efficient onboarding of new employees.
  • training and development administrator: in this capacity, you are responsible for coordinating employee training programs, scheduling workshops and evaluating training effectiveness. You may also be tasked with identifying training needs within the organisation and finding suitable resources to address those needs.
  • benefits administrator: as a benefits administrator, you manage employee benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans and paid leave. You help employees understand their benefits, resolve any issues they may have, and ensure that benefits are administered fairly and according to company policy.
  • payroll administrator: in this role, you manage payroll operations, ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time. Payroll administrators are also responsible for handling tax deductions, benefits calculations and compliance with labour laws related to payroll.
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working as an HR administrator

Working as an HR administrator involves managing various aspects of employee relations, such as recruitment, training, benefits and payroll. If you're organised, enjoy working with people and have a flair for administration, this could be an exciting career choice for you. Read on to find out more.

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education and skills

Some of the academic qualifications for HR administrators include:

  • bachelor's degree: most employers require HR administrators to have at least a bachelor's degree, preferably in human resources, business administration or another related field. This foundational education provides you with the necessary knowledge to handle HR tasks effectively.
  • HR certifications: obtaining HR certifications, such as the Society for Human Resource Management-Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or the Professional in Human Resources (PHR), can enhance your credibility and make you more attractive to potential employers. These certifications demonstrate your expertise and commitment to staying updated on HR trends and best practices.
  • HR software proficiency: proficiency in HR software, such as HRIS or ATS, is often required by employers. These tools help streamline HR processes, manage employee records and enhance overall efficiency. Familiarity with commonly used HR software is a valuable asset for an HR administrator.

HR administrator skills and competencies

Some of the qualities of an HR administrator include:

  • interpersonal skills: as an HR administrator, you interact frequently with employees, managers and other HR professionals. Strong interpersonal skills are essential for building positive relationships and effectively handling HR-related queries and concerns.
  • organisational skills: managing employee records, coordinating HR activities and implementing policies require excellent organisational skills. Being organised helps you stay on top of your tasks and ensures efficient HR management.
  • communication skills: clear and effective communication is crucial for an HR administrator. Whether you're conducting interviews, addressing employee concerns or disseminating information about HR policies, strong communication skills are key to success in this role.
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FAQs about working as an HR administrator

Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of an HR administrator.

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