Human resources professionals

Strong job outlook

Overview

Human resources professionals develop, implement and evaluate human resources and labour relations policies, programs and procedures and advise employers and employees on human resources matters. They are employed throughout the public and private sectors, or they may be self-employed.

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • Plan, develop, implement and evaluate human resources and labour relations strategies including policies, programs and procedures to address an organization's human resource requirements

  • Advise employers and employees on the interpretation of human resources policies, compensation and benefit programs and collective agreements

  • Negotiate collective agreements on behalf of employers or workers, mediate labour disputes and grievances and provide advice on employee and labour relations

  • Research and prepare occupational classifications, job descriptions, salary scales and competency appraisal measures and systems

  • Plan and administer staffing, total compensation, training and career development, employee assistance, employment equity and affirmative action programs

  • Manage programs and maintain human resources information and related records systems

  • Hire and oversee training of staff

  • Coordinate employee performance appraisal programs

  • Research employee benefit and health and safety practices and recommend changes or modifications to existing policies.

Job titles

  • bargaining agent
  • benefits consultant
  • benefits coordinator
  • certified disability management professional
  • claims manager - compensation and benefits
  • classification officer - human resources

Employment prospects

Source: BC Labour Market Outlook 2024 edition

Annual salary

Low

$53,391

Median

$85,510

High

$134,354

Job openings

Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.

Strong job outlook

British Columbia

2,049

expected job openings (5-year forecast)

Education and training

Employment requirements

  • A university degree or college diploma in human resources management or a related field, such as business administration, industrial relations, commerce or psychology or completion of a professional development program in human resources administration is required.

  • Some employers may require human resources professionals to hold a Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation.

Additional information

  • Progression to management positions is possible with experience.

Certification requirements

Optional: The following certifications are optional to practice as Human resources professionals in B.C.

  • Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) - HR Professionals
  • Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) Designation - HR Professionals

Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) - HR Professionals

To receive the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation, you must be registered with the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) in good standing. Eligibility is achieved through completion of the required coursework, relevant exams, and the Job Ready Program offered by the HRPA.

Visit website

Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) Designation - HR Professionals

Please confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.

To work in human resources in B.C., you may choose to pursue the Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation. Eligibility is achieved by completing requisite education requirements or passing the National Knowledge Exam, and by proving sufficient work experience.

Visit website

Post-secondary programs in B.C.

Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.

Other careers