Human resources, recruitment and training: career FAQs

How can I get a job in human resources, recruitment and training?

There are two main entry routes. While some HR graduate training programmes are available, they are rare in Ireland. Alternatively, graduates can gain an entry-level role as a HR administrator where they will have responsibility for matters such as updating files, contracts, scheduling interviews, preparing statistics etc.

What are the different areas of work?

Human resource professionals are involved with recruitment, training, career development, compensation and benefits, employee relations, industrial relations, employment law, compliance, disciplinary and grievance issues, redundancies etc. Generalist HR functions are usually found in small and medium sized companies where the HR manager will deal with the whole range of HR activities. In large multinationals you will often find specialists, for example in learning and development, recruitment or employee relations.

What qualifications and skills do I need to work in human resources, recruitment and training?

While an HR degree is not necessary, it is an advantage, as is the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development (CIPD) qualification. A list of CIPD-accredited programmes in Ireland is available on the CIPD website.

What are the opportunities for professional development?

There are two relevant professional bodies: the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (a professional body for personnel and development in Ireland and the UK) and the Irish Institute of Training and Development (a professional body for human resource training and development in Ireland).

What are the salaries in human resources, recruitment and training?

The gradireland Graduate Salary Survey 2020/21 found that the median starting salary for human resources, recruitment and training (across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland) is €26,500. Salaries in HR increase with the level of experience, responsibility and seniority.