FAQ
HR Assistant FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an HR assistant.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an HR assistant: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about HR assistants
Do HR assistants need a degree?
BLS lists an associate degree as typical.
What is the aPHR?
An entry HR credential from HRCI.
Is it a path to HR?
Yes, a common start.
How much does an HR assistant make?
The median annual wage for HR assistants was $50,610 ($24.33 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $37,340 and the highest 10% earned more than $68,280.
How long does it take to become an HR assistant?
Most people need about Short on-the-job training of training. An associate degree is typical; some employers hire with a high school diploma and experience.
Do you need a degree to be an HR assistant?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
Is HR assistant a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -6.2% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 7,900 openings each year. Upsides include entry to HR careers; a common challenge is that declining employment.
What skills does an HR assistant need?
Key technical skills include hris data entry, recruiting support, i-9 compliance, and records management. Employers also value confidentiality, organization, and friendliness.
What certifications are available for HR assistants?
Common credentials include aPHR, SHRM-CP, E-Verify training, and HR certificate. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the HR Assistant fit quiz, compare with Human Resources Specialist, or explore HR Assistant training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-4161 (Human resources assistants, except payroll and timekeeping).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Human resources assistants, except payroll and timekeeping (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.