Employment of human resources managers is expected to grow 13 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Employment growth for human resources managers largely depends on the performance and growth of individual companies. As new companies form and organizations expand their operations, they will need more human resources staff to oversee and administer their programs.
Managers will be needed to ensure that firms adhere to changing, complex employment laws regarding occupational safety and health, equal employment opportunity, healthcare, wages, and retirement plans.
Job growth is expected to be tempered, however, by the use of computerized human resources information systems, which allow companies to handle many administrative processes more productively and with fewer workers.
Job opportunities are expected to vary, depending on the staffing needs of individual companies. Job opportunities should be best in the professional, scientific, and technical consulting industry as organizations continue to contract with outside consulting firms for some of their human resources functions.
Candidates with certification or a master’s degree—particularly those with a concentration in human resources management or an MBA—should have the best job prospects. Those with a solid background in human resources programs, policies, and employment law should also have better job opportunities.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition