what is an HR coordinator?

As an HR coordinator, you support the functions of the company's human resources (HR) department. You work with the human resources manager, assisting in departmental activities like employee recruitment, orientation and payroll administration. While you don't take part in strategic decision-making, you implement human resources policies and create a good working environment for staff by ensuring the HR processes run smoothly.

Your duties range from administrative to clerical tasks, like managing HR records by preparing contracts, reviewing performance and handling employee benefits forms. Since most HR departments use human resources information systems (HRIS) to track employee data, you maintain the system to ensure accurate information is made available to the management team for informed decision-making. While you don't participate in recruitment, you support recruitment activities by assisting with creating job postings and performing reference checks. After the interviews, you write and send job offers to successful candidates.

Due to the sensitive nature of employee records, you act professionally and tactfully. You are also the link between the management and the employees, so it's important to portray a positive attitude and be approachable and friendly.

Would working as an HR coordinator suit your exceptional people and communication skills? If so, read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in an HR coordinator role.

HR coordinator jobs
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average HR coordinator salary

According to Job Bank, the average salary of an HR coordinator in Canada is $64,997 per year. Your earnings vary depending on various factors, including education, location and experience. When starting your career as an HR coordinator, you take home a salary of $48,750 yearly. With experience and additional certifications, your earnings increase gradually, and you can take home over $146,014 annually.

how to increase your earnings as an HR coordinator

Your salary depends on your experience and external factors like company size and location. Your professional qualifications determine your salary since employers are interested in the expertise and skills you bring to the company. Having additional certifications in human resources can boost your earnings. While HR coordinator is an entry-level role, having prior HR working experience improves your salary potential. After gaining years of experience, your value to the company goes beyond performing daily job duties, and you consistently contribute to company growth. Hence, you can negotiate a higher salary that's equivalent to your experience.

The industry and budget of your employer could also influence your earnings. In a labour-intensive industry that relies on many employees, such as restaurants, construction and healthcare, you coordinate multiple HR functions compared to industries with automated processes. When making hiring decisions, employers set a budget, determining how much they are willing to pay for your skills.

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types of HR coordinators

As an HR coordinator, you handle employee-related issues in various areas of the human resources department. You can focus on any of the following areas:

  • Recruitment and selection: you assist the recruitment team with administrative tasks, like researching potential candidates for various positions. You also write job postings and compose follow-up letters for unsuccessful candidates. After recruitment, you coordinate employee onboarding programs and ensure they complete the right paperwork before starting their jobs.
  • Employee compensation and benefits: you coordinate various employee pay and benefits activities, including administering payroll and managing employee health and benefits paperwork. You also ensure employees are registered to benefits plans, including the Canadian Pension Plan (CPP).
  • Training and development: you plan and organize training programs for employees. While you don't conduct the training, you find the training sites and research the best trainers. You also set up the training venue and ensure employees have the necessary training materials.
  • Employee relations: in a unionized employment setting, you should have labour relations skills. Part of employee relations is handling conflicts and documenting them after resolution. As an HR coordinator, you are responsible for safety-related tasks, from conducting safety training to preparing incident reports.
woman smiling
woman smiling
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working as an HR coordinator

If you have a cooperative team approach and the ability to earn the trust of employees, consider becoming an HR coordinator. Let’s explore the duties, responsibilities and work environments of HR coordinators.

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HR coordinator skills and education

To work as an HR coordinator, you require the following educational qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree: most employers require a bachelor's degree in human resources or business administration to work as an HR coordinator. A degree in social science, such as psychology or sociology, will prepare you for the role of an HR coordinator.
  • Certifications: you may require certification to work in some provinces throughout Canada. For instance, in Quebec, you should be a Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP), while in Saskatchewan, you can obtain a Chartered Professionals in Human Resources certificate from CPHR Saskatchewan. You can also boost your HR knowledge with professional certification from CPHR Canada (formerly CCHRA).

competencies and characteristics of HR coordinators

  • A career as an HR coordinator requires a balance of educational qualifications and personal attributes. You need the following skills to excel in the role:
  • Knowledge of HR software: as an HR coordinator, your job involves managing the digital copies of employee records. You require extensive knowledge of HR software, such as employee management and applicant tracking systems. Having basic technical skills helps you maintain up-to-date records.
  • Solid communication skills: you handle inquiries from employees and communicate them to the management team. You require good communication skills to relay information clearly. Having good listening skills is also important when handling issues affecting employees.
  • Organization skills: most of your tasks involve planning and coordinating activities, which requires organization and time management skills. Having good organizational skills helps you plan and coordinate various activities.
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FAQs

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

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Make sure your resume is up-to-date, including information about your technical skills and certifications. Then share it with us to connect with a recruiter and be matched with job opportunities.

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