The HR specialist is responsible for a specific HR function within an organization. Specialists are usually part of a larger HR team within larger companies. Many HR pros are attracted to specialization since it allows them to focus on and improve in one or a few key areas, such as:

HR Specialists tend to fill more nuanced roles that focus on one particular area of Human Resources. Here are a few examples:

• Benefits Specialists
• Compensation and Performance Specialists
• Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS) Specialists
• Payroll Specialists
• Recruitment Specialists
• Compliance Specialists
• Training and Development Specialists

HR professionals tend to begin their career in a more general role and move into a specialized position later once they have found a niche they prefer. 

Related Terms: HR Generalist