An essential role in every company, human resource professionals oil the cogs of workplace operations. They keep their companies running smoothly and ensure a positive workplace environment. As companies increasingly embrace digital transformation, HR functions are shifting beyond purely administrative roles into more tech-enabled roles, emphasizing data, analytics, AI literacy and digital skills. 

What Human Resources Professionals Do

The life of an HR professional is rarely monotonous. Often trained in all human resource disciplines, HR professionals typically handle every aspect of employee relations, including recruitment, compensation, benefits, training and the administration of human resource policies and procedures. They also ensure that these functions comply with federal, state and local regulations. 

While HR professionals may perform a variety of duties, there is opportunity to follow specialized paths within the field. For example, an HR “generalist” might manage all areas of human resources, but a “recruitment specialist” would focus on finding, screening and interviewing applicants for job openings. Other specialties include compensation and benefits manager, training and development specialists, and employee assistance plan managers who focus on work-life balance and employee safety and wellness.

Core Skills for Today’s HR Professionals

As organizations modernize, this shift toward specialization is growing and professionals who specialize in AI oversight, HR analytics and data-driven workforce strategy are in demand. 

According to Robert Half’s 2026 Human Resources Salary Trends, “Employers seek HR professionals who can balance people-centered decision-making with analytical insight.” As HR departments integrate AI and automation into their systems, professionals who can use AI to streamline processes and improve workflow are likely to see better pay growth and career advancement.

The use of AI in HR functions is also leading to the creation of new HR roles. The Business Insider references four new HR job titles emerging in the age of AI, including AI trainer and people data and AI insights lead.

Where Human Resources Professionals Work

While job growth has slowed overall, some industries continue to see more competition for HR professionals, particularly ones with specialty skills.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industries hiring the most HR talent include scientific and technical services, finance, insurance, healthcare, government, manufacturing and education. These industries typically look for prospective hires who are familiar with a range of relevant skills. High-demand skills with strong projected growth over the next two years include: employee onboarding (24.5%), compensation strategy (23.6%), change management (23.2%) talent management (21.73%) and recruitment tools (22.2%).

Certifications That Can Boost Your HR Career

As an HR professional, a membership in the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) can help you expand your professional network and increase your value in the industry through courses and certification programs intended to enhance your skills. 

Recognized HR certifications include the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP), the HRCI’s Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), with key differences being the amount of relevant work experience and level of training.

Preparing for HR Roles Through Continuing Education

Earning a certificate in HR management is a valuable way to develop credibility. Designed for early career professionals and career changers, UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education's Human Resource Management Certificate Program gives you foundational skills to manage the complex responsibilities that are central to a successful organizational culture.

You’ll learn job-ready skills to succeed as an HR professional, including familiarity with employment law, ethics, labor relations, performance management, compensation and benefits retention, talent development and recruitment. Courses are taught by experienced HR experts and include realistic assignments that offer hands-on practice in key areas of HR management.

HR Certificate Program Details

• Complete in as few as 6 months
• 4 online courses
• $3,400 (Pay in full and save 10%)
• Receive credit for SPHR and PHR re-certification through HRCI
• Included on the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL), as approved by Yolo County

Learn more about the Human Resource Management Certificate Program or view HR courses now open for enrollment.

• Related article: This is the HR certificate for early career professionals