Resource Manager

Education and Training: Bachelor’s degree in human resource management, labor relations, or related field
Average Salary: $35,814-$89,932 per year
Job Outlook: Very good

A resource manager is often referred to in organizations as a human resources manager and works with the human resources department to implement policies and procedures established by the company. The job duties of a resource manager vary with industry type and organization size. Duties may include recruiting and hiring new employees, training and briefing personnel, developing and updating employee handbooks and manuals, and creating compensation and promotion plans.

Resource managers must be experts in the organization and provide a wealth of information to employees. Experience is a must when it comes to working successfully as a resource manager. Strong leadership and interpersonal skills are needed in dealing with employee conflict resolution and conveying company expectations.

Education and Training Requirements

Most resource managers are college graduates holding a degree in human resources, labor relations or a related field. Many successful job candidates possess a bachelor’s or master’s degree. College courses required of resource managers may include human relations, psychology, business planning, organizational leadership, and business administration.

Getting the Job

Internships are often offered for college students and recent graduates to participate in. Once the intern has a foot in the door, full time employment is readily accessible when an opening arises. Some job openings are advertised within while others are open to the public. Job openings may be posted on internet job boards, classified sections of the newspapers, or the organization’s own website.

Job Prospects, Employment Outlook and Career Development

According to the United States Department of Labor, resource manager positions are on the rise and job growth is expected to be favorable over the next decade. The growth is expected to rise above the national average for all occupations, due to a growing workforce that requires more resource managers.

In larger firms and businesses advancement is more likely than with smaller organizations. With a proven track record of success and leadership, resource managers may move up the ladder into executive and administrative positions. Many who work for smaller companies move up the ranks by moving to different companies at higher levels.

Working Conditions and Environment

Resource managers typically work in a comfortable office setting and spend a majority of their time meeting with people on the phone or in person. Interpersonal and communication skills are highly required due to the continual interaction with people. Most resource managers work forty hours per week and are rarely called to work nights or evenings. Local and regional travel may be required as resource managers often participate in job fairs, college campus visitations, and professional seminars and workshops.

Salary and Benefits

The salary for a resource manager varies primarily due to the experience an individual has in the human resources field. The median salary range is from $35,814-$89,932 per year according to the United States Department of Labor. The highest paid resource managers typically worked in excess of 20 years, while the lowest paid earned the entry level pay. Salaries vary depending on the size, industry, and location of the business.

Most organizations and businesses offer full benefit packages that include health and medical insurance, retirement plans or 401(k), life and disability insurances, paid time off for vacation and sick leave. Profit sharing options may be available.

Where to Go for More Information

American Society for Training and Development
1640 King St.
Box 1443
Alexandria, VA 22313-2043
http://www.astd.org/

International Public Management Association for Human Resources
1617 Duke St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
http://www.ipma-hr.org/

Society for Human Resource Management
1800 Duke St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
http://www.shrm.org/