If you’re passionate about people and technology, an HRIS role could be your perfect career fit. As the bridge between human resources and information technology, HRIS professionals play a vital role in managing a company’s human resources information system and ensuring smooth operations behind the scenes.
Whether you’re already in HR or IT—or just starting your career journey—this field offers a dynamic blend of problem-solving, data management, and innovation. Read on to discover the types of HRIS jobs available, key responsibilities, and how to become a top candidate in this fast-evolving industry.
What are HRIS jobs?
HRIS jobs are HR positions for people working with a company’s human resources information system (HRIS). These systems store and manage your people data, including information on payroll, benefits, and performance.
HRIS professionals fill the role of IT and data experts within HR departments. From leveraging data for powerful HR analytics to providing technical support, HRIS teams help optimize workforce management and decision-making.
Why HRIS roles are important for organizational success
HRIS systems—and the HRIS professionals who manage them—help automate core HR processes like payroll, onboarding, and performance management.
HRIS professionals also conduct advanced data analytics to help teams make informed decisions about workforce planning, process optimization, compliance, and more. With the right HRIS team, companies can identify trends, improve their team members’ experiences, and ensure data-driven decisions align with long-term business goals.
Where can you find HRIS jobs?
The demand for HRIS professionals usually has to do with a company’s size. Larger organizations with more people typically require robust HRIS systems to manage complex HR tasks like payroll, benefits, performance management, and compliance.
HRIS job overview
In an HRIS job, you’ll blend technical expertise with HR insights to create efficient processes, provide valuable analytics, and ensure systems run smoothly to support strategic decision-making across the organization. Let’s explore what this job entails and how it contributes to a company’s success.
HRIS career path
An HRIS career path can be highly rewarding, offering multiple opportunities for advancement and specialization.
Entry-level HRIS roles often include positions like HRIS administrator or HRIS analyst, where professionals focus on data entry, reporting, and basic system support. Professionals can move into senior roles, such as HRIS manager or senior HRIS analyst, where responsibilities expand to include system strategy, stakeholder engagement, and project management for larger HR initiatives.
For those with leadership ambitions, the path can lead to executive roles like Chief HRIS Officer or HRIS directors. In these high-level positions, professionals oversee the HRIS function across the organization, guiding system strategy and ensuring the HRIS aligns with the company’s broader technology and people needs.
Education
Educational requirements for HRIS roles vary by responsibility level. Most organizations look for candidates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in human resources, information technology, computer science, or a related field. Excelling in courses in data management, information systems, and business analytics demonstrates foundational knowledge for managing and interpreting HR data.
Some companies may consider candidates with an associate degree in relevant fields, especially if they have previous experience or certifications in HRIS. For those considering a long-term career in HRIS, advanced degrees in HR technology or information systems can open doors to senior roles and leadership opportunities.
HRIS certifications
HRIS certifications can set you apart from the crowd during the application process. If you’ve already landed an HRIS job, certifications help you stay up to date on HR software, trends, and regulations.
You can find relevant HR and HRIS certifications at:
- Cornell University Human Resources Certificate Programs
- International Association of Human Resources Information Management
- HR Certification Institute
- Society for Human Resources Management
- Academy to Innovate HR
HRIS skills
HRIS professionals have varying skills depending on their specific role, but you’ll often see them excel at:
- Project management skills: HRIS professionals often lead system implementations and upgrades, requiring strong project management abilities
- Problem-solving and troubleshooting: The ability to resolve technical issues quickly is essential for maintaining system efficiency
- Understanding HR processes: A solid grasp of core HR functions like payroll, benefits, and compliance helps HRIS professionals align technology with business needs
- Communication skills: HRIS professionals must be able to explain technical issues and insights to non-technical team members clearly
Career advancement opportunities for HRIS professionals
The HRIS career path has great opportunities for steady advancement. Many HRIS professionals start as analysts and work their way up to HRIS managers. You can even qualify for a chief HRIS officer role where you’d lead your organization’s HRIS team and own the HRIS system’s functionality.
HRIS job types
Whether you’re more inclined toward data analysis, system management, or user support, there’s an HRIS job to match your skills and interests. From entry-level positions to leadership roles, these jobs help drive HR strategy and optimize workforce management.
HRIS associate
An HRIS associate is an entry-level role focused on the day-to-day operations of the human resources information system. They assist with data entry, system updates, and reporting, to ensure the accuracy and integrity of team member data. HRIS associates provide support to HRIS users, troubleshoot minor system issues, and help implement basic HR system changes.
Job responsibilities:
- Ensure team member data is accurate and secure
- Provide HRIS system support to managers and team members
- Troubleshoot minor technical issues
Required skills and qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or associate’s degree in information technology, human resources, or business administration
- Familiarity with HRIS systems
- Problem-solving skills
- Analytical and reporting skills
- Knowledge of relevant employment laws
HRIS administrator
HRIS administrators handle daily system operations and ensure the accuracy of their HR data. They often handle more complex tasks than HRIS analysts, such as running detailed analytics, customizing reports, and coordinating with IT or external vendors for major system implementations or troubleshooting.
Job responsibilities:
- Initiate HRIS reviews and updates
- Evaluate and protect data integrity
- Educate HRIS teams on software use
- Manage system permissions
- Troubleshoot technical issues
Required skills and qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in information technology, human resources, or business administration
- Familiarity with HR policies and procedures
- Experience with at least one HRIS product
- Proficiency in database security and management
- Analytical and reporting skills
- Knowledge of relevant employment laws
HRIS analyst
An HRIS analyst focuses on leveraging HRIS data for strategic decision-making. They use HR data to conduct analyses and report important results and trends to stakeholders. They also handle IT-related tasks like upgrading or installing HRIS software, resolving system issues, and automating tasks like data gathering.
Job responsibilities:
- Collect and analyze organizational data
- Evaluate HR systems and processes
- Develop initiatives to improve HR productivity and strategies
- Consult with stakeholders to determine what data to track and discuss potential tech upgrades
- Create and guide HRIS implementation plans
- Identify trends and forecast workforce needs
Required skills and qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in IT or computer science (some companies consider applicants with a bachelor’s in HR or business administration)
- Experience with the company’s HRIS or similar software
- Several years as an HR associate or administrator
- An understanding of system development lifecycle processes
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
HRIS specialist
An HRIS specialist acts as a department’s HRIS expert, providing support for HRIS analysts and conducting regular system maintenance. They work on system configurations, updates, and troubleshooting while also assisting with tasks like onboarding new users and maintaining system security.
Job responsibilities:
- Audit HR systems and conduct diagnostic tests
- Gather feedback from end-users and address their needs
- Manage HRIS technology
- Provide HRIS system support to analysts and team members
Required skills and qualifications:
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in information technology, HR, or business administration
- A few years of HR experience
- Experience with HRIS software
- Strong proficiency with computers, especially data and reporting
- Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
HRIS manager
HRIS managers bridge the gap between human resources and technology, playing a crucial role in overseeing the HRIS team and ensuring that the HRIS system runs smoothly. They analyze data and reports from HRIS analysts to uncover workforce trends and develop strategies that enhance HR processes like talent management, payroll, and performance tracking.
HRIS managers are also responsible for ensuring the system aligns with company needs and complies with labor regulations, all while maintaining data security and system integrity.
Job responsibilities:
- Manage HRIS team’s daily operations and software updates
- Work with stakeholders and leads evaluation and implementation of HRIS solutions
- Regularly audit the HRIS for accuracy, security, and efficiency
- Monitor compliance with labor regulations
- Provide leadership in troubleshooting and resolving complex system issues
Required skills and qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in information technology, human resources, business administration, or a related field
- Strong IT skills, including a deep understanding of HRIS platforms and database management systems
- Extensive experience working with HRIS software
- An understanding of database construction and architecture
- Analytical skills to interpret HR data, identify trends, and suggest improvements that align with business objectives
- Excellent project management abilities to lead system upgrades and training
- Strong communication and leadership skills
HRIS consultant
An HRIS consultant is usually an external expert who advises companies on selecting, implementing, and optimizing human resources information systems. They’re hired on a project or contract basis to provide specialized knowledge and guidance for system upgrades, integrations, or transitions. Their role involves assessing a company’s current HR processes, recommending the best HRIS solutions, and supporting smooth system implementation or optimization.
Job responsibilities:
- Help businesses select and customize HRIS software
- Optimize HRIS tools
- Provide customer service during implementation
- Support businesses in aligning HR technology and business goals
- Offer team member training and system maintenance
Required skills and qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in information technology, Human Resources, or business administration
- Ability to troubleshoot technical issues and optimize system functionality
- Great communication and interpersonal skills to work with clients, vendors, and cross-functional teams
- Strong analytical abilities to assess business needs and recommend solutions
- Certifications reflecting proficiency in specific software or HRIS functions (optional)
HRIS director
This senior-level position involves overseeing a company’s HRIS technology and processes. An HRIS director ensures the HRIS aligns with both HR goals and organizational strategy while collaborating with HR, IT, and executive leadership to implement scalable, efficient systems.
Job responsibilities:
- Oversee system functionality to guarantee that HR technology supports business needs and data-driven decision-making
- Lead the long-term strategy for HRIS and optimizes HR technology for future growth
- Manage and mentor the HRIS team, ensuring efficient collaboration across HR, IT, and other departments
- Monitor compliance with labor laws, regulations, and company policies
- Work closely with HR leadership, IT, finance, and HRIS vendors
- Evaluate emerging HRIS technologies to keep the organization ahead of the curve
Required skills and qualifications:
- Proven experience in HRIS leadership, typically with 10+ years of HRIS or HR technology experience
- Strong leadership and project management skills
- Ability to strategize and align HRIS solutions with business goals
- Deep understanding of HR processes, data management, and compliance
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
How to get an HRIS job
We’ll walk you through the steps toward becoming an HRIS professional.
1. Complete a degree in IT, HR, business administration, or a related field
Although some HRIS jobs accept candidates with associate’s degrees, most HRIS roles require a bachelor’s degree. Relevant fields include information technology, human resources, computer science, and business administration. This educational background helps you develop the technical and HR knowledge needed to excel in HRIS roles.
2. Gain computer and software proficiency
HRIS professionals can efficiently manage the company’s HR software and provide IT support for the software users. These roles also involve collecting, analyzing, and reporting on team member data, so you’ll need strong statistical analysis and visualization skills.
Familiarize yourself with popular HRIS platforms and enhance your analytics skills through coursework or hands-on practice.
3. Set yourself apart with relevant certifications
An HRIS or other HR certifications set you apart from other applicants by demonstrating your expertise and dedication to your work. These courses expand your knowledge of HR tech, processes, and trends and help you stay up-to-date with compliance and innovations.
Potential certifications include:
- Human Resource Information Professional (HRIP)
- Associate Professional in Human Resources – International (aPHRi)
- Professional in Human Resources (PHR).
4. Search for an entry-level HRIS position
The next step is to put yourself out on the job market. Search for “HRIS jobs” in your area and include your specialty. Include key terms in your resume and cover letter that match the HRIS job description, including technical skills, communication abilities, HRIS certifications, and work experience.
5. Consider a graduate degree to advance your career
To further your career and move into senior or leadership positions, consider pursuing a graduate degree in fields like information systems, human resources, or business administration. A master’s degree can open doors to higher-level roles, provide networking opportunities, and deepen your expertise in HR technology and strategic management.
Excel in your HRIS career path
With a great HRIS team, organizations can unlock the full potential of their HR operations. HRIS professionals do more than just manage systems—they help leaders make smarter decisions, boost employee satisfaction, and drive long-term success.
Get ready for a future of streamlining HR operations, improving reporting and analytics, and supporting your people.
Learn more about HRIS jobs
What is the difference between HRIS analysts and specialists?
HRIS analyst roles tend to focus more on data analysis while HRIS specialists are considered experts in HR technology and strategies.
Do you need a computer science degree to get an HRIS job?
Not necessarily. A degree in computer science or IT degree can help you land an HRIS job, but you can also start your HRIS career with a degree in human resources or business administration.
How can someone get an HRIS job without experience?
It’s possible to land an entry-level HRIS job without having experience by pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s in human resources or a related field, demonstrating your technical skills, and familiarizing yourself with HR processes and systems.
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What degree do you need for HRIS?
You can choose between a few options when pursuing education for an HRIS career. Many job descriptions require bachelor’s degrees in HR, IT, business administration, or other related fields. Some organizations accept applicants with associate’s degrees in any of these fields.
What are HRIS job salaries?
HRIS salaries vary depending on seniority, often ranging from:
- HRIS associate: $52,000 – $78,000
- HRIS analyst: $69,000 – $106,000
- HRIS administrator: $73,000 – $110,000
- HRIS specialist: $87,000 – $124,000
- HRIS consultant: $100,000 – $170,000
- HRIS manager: $127,000 – $182,000
- HRIS director: $197,000 – $338,000
