How to Become a Human Resources Manager
Plan, direct, and coordinate human resources activities and staff of an organization. It typically requires a bachelor's degree, with a median salary of $149,280 per year and faster than average projected job growth.
Median pay
$149,280/yr
Typical range
$88,200 to $267,810
Job growth
5%
Openings / yr
17,900
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Talent Management
- Employment Law
- Compensation and Benefits
- Conflict Resolution
- Leadership
Helpful certifications
- SHRM-CP
- SHRM-SCP
- PHR (Professional in HR)
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
62/100
Work-life balance
64/100
Stress level
48/100
Satisfaction
71/100
Related careers
- Entrepreneur / Business Founder$213,990 median
- Sales Manager$148,270 median
- Purchasing Manager$148,080 median
- Administrative Services Manager$114,130 median
- Facilities Manager$106,660 median
- Operations Manager$105,770 median
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Human Resources Manager make?
The median pay for a Human Resources Manager is $149,280 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). The typical range runs from $88,200 to $267,810, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Human Resources Manager?
The usual entry point is a bachelor's degree. Common majors are Human Resources Management, Business Administration, Psychology, and Organizational Leadership.
Is Human Resources Manager a growing field?
The BLS projects faster than average demand for this role, about 5% over the decade, with roughly 17,900 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Human Resources Manager use most?
Common skills for this role are Talent Management, Employment Law, Compensation and Benefits, Conflict Resolution, and Leadership.
Planning to become a Human Resources Manager?
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.