2024 Canada Human Resources Salaries and Hiring Trends

Companies focused on running leaner HR organizations are hiring strategically and, for now, are depending more on the staff they already have to keep up with compliance demands and other duties. That means firms value HR generalists who can handle a wide variety of responsibilities. HR departments are also engaging skilled contract professionals to supplement core staff.

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Hiring Trends in Human Resources

Blended roles a solution for some

Managers who want to add staff are encountering a still-tight hiring environment — 93% of human resources managers say it’s challenging to find skilled professionals today.

HR leaders who face talent shortages or don’t want to add headcount due to budget constraints are creating blended roles, such as an HR position that handles both payroll and health and safety.

Businesses are also tapping contract professionals to assist in key areas such as talent recruitment, training and updating internal systems for managing employee data.

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Professionals value flexible work

39% of HR professionals say nontraditional schedules and remote and hybrid work options are among the most important considerations when deciding whether to apply for a job.

71% of hiring managers working in human resources say their firms offer flexible work schedules.

Hottest jobs

Industries hiring most

Health care

Manufacturing

Retail

In-demand certifications and credentials

Certified human resources professional (CHRP)

Chartered professional in human resources (CPHR)

Corporate wellness/inclusive culture credentials

Human resources information program (HRIP)

Professional in human resources (PHR)

Top technical and soft skills

Bilingualism (English and French)

HRIS and HR software (Workday)

Microsoft Excel

Payroll applications and software (ADP)

Presentation skills

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How do we determine our salary figures? See our methodology.

The salaries listed in the salary tables represent starting compensation only, meaning pay for someone new to a company in the position listed. Our estimates do not include bonuses, benefits or perks. We report salaries in percentiles and ranges, recognizing that professionals join companies at varied experience levels.

Other data referenced in this Salary Guide is based on online surveys developed by Robert Half and conducted by independent research firms. Respondents included hiring managers and employees from small (less than $50 million in revenues), midsize ($50 million to $1 billion) and large ($1 billion or greater) private, publicly listed and public sector organizations across Canada.

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