Human resources is the heart of any organization. From hiring and onboarding to helping employees grow and thrive, HR professionals keep the culture strong and the people supported. And now, thanks to the rise in virtual work, remote HR jobs are easier to find than ever before. Whether you’re brand new to human resources or a seasoned pro ready to work from home, the good news is this: Yes, you can absolutely work in HR remotely. Let’s explore the opportunities, the skills you need, and how to stand out when applying for these in-demand roles.
What Do Remote HR Jobs Involve?
Working in remote human resources means handling many of the same tasks you’d manage in an office — just from your home office, coffee shop, or wherever you work best. You’re still supporting employees, solving problems, and helping teams succeed — only now, you’re doing it through video calls, digital platforms, and smart communication tools.
Remote HR professionals might:
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Recruit and screen candidates
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Onboard new hires virtually
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Resolve employee concerns or conflicts
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Manage payroll and benefits
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Create learning and development plans
These roles require a balance of people skills, organization, and tech-savviness. Luckily, those traits translate well to virtual environments.
How Much Does Someone in Remote HR Make?
Salaries for remote HR jobs vary depending on your title, experience, and location — but overall, pay is solid. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Salary.com:
- HR Specialists earn around $72,000 per year
- HR Managers average $140,000 annually
- HR Assistants can start around $41,000
- HR Directors can make around $188,000
- HR VPs earn between $190,000-$310,000
HR pros are in demand — and that demand comes with strong earning potential. With the right mix of skills and experience, remote HR can be both a flexible and financially rewarding career.
What You’ll Need to Succeed in Remote HR
The best remote HR opportunities often go to candidates who bring a mix of qualifications, soft skills, and adaptability. Employers want people who can think critically, communicate clearly, and build trust — especially in virtual environments. It’s not just about having the right credentials; it’s about showing you can thrive without constant supervision. Here are some additional skills and credentials that you can consider adding to your qualifications.
Education & Certifications
You don’t need a degree in HR to succeed, but many professionals have a background in:
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Human Resources
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Business Administration
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Psychology
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Communications
To boost your credibility (and your salary), consider earning an HR certification. The most respected ones include:
Certs aren’t always required, but they definitely help you stand out in a crowded remote job market.
Soft Skills Matter Even More Remotely
You won’t always be face-to-face with your colleagues, so your soft skills need to shine. That means being proactive, staying organized, and knowing how to navigate digital tools with ease. The more you can demonstrate your ability to lead and support others from a distance, the more valuable you’ll be to remote HR companies.
Top soft skills for remote HR jobs include:
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Clear and compassionate communication
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Active listening
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Conflict resolution
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Empathy and discretion
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Initiative and follow-through
You’re often the go-to person for tough questions or private concerns — so trustworthiness and professionalism go a long way. But just as important is being approachable — employees need to feel comfortable coming to you, even through a screen.
Popular Remote HR Job Titles
Whether you’re looking for entry-level work or a senior leadership role, remote HR companies are hiring across the board. From startups to global corporations, there’s a growing demand for HR professionals who can support teams from anywhere.
Common job titles include:
Companies Hiring for Remote HR Jobs
Some of today’s most flexible employers are actively hiring for remote jobs in HR. Here are a few standouts:
1. Workday
Known for its cloud-based HR software, Workday is also a remote-friendly employer. Roles range from benefits support to senior HR project management.
2. UnitedHealth Group
In the healthcare space, UnitedHealth Group hires remote HR specialists, recruiters, and talent development professionals, especially in roles supporting large distributed teams.
3. OneSource Virtual, Inc.
OneSource Virtual is an IT services and consulting firm that frequently hires for remote payroll and garnishment roles.
4. Jerry Insurance Agency LLC
Jerry Insurance Agency operates in the insurance industry, providing a mobile app that allows users to compare and purchase vehicle and home insurance. They hire regularly for remote people operations and recruiting positions.
5. Aquent
Aquent is a workforce solutions agency that provides specialty recruiting, consulting, and staffing services for global brands seeking permanent, project-based, or contingent talent. They hire for HRIS Analysts, Recruiting Coordinators, I-9 Onboarding Coordinators, and Recruiting Coordinators & Generalists.
Tip: Many smaller companies also offer flexible HR roles. Look for remote-first employers in industries that align with your passions or experience.
Tips for Standing Out & Landing a Remote HR Job
The competition for remote HR jobs can be fierce. But with the right strategy, you can absolutely stand out. Hiring managers are looking for more than just experience — they want to see that you understand how to support people remotely. That means tailoring your application to highlight both your HR expertise and your remote-readiness. Here’s how:
Tailor Your Resume for Remote Work
Don’t just list your past HR experience — highlight how you’ve handled sensitive conversations, coached managers, or improved employee engagement. If you’ve used HRIS platforms (like Workday, BambooHR, or Gusto), mention those clearly. Tech skills matter. And don’t forget to showcase any experience managing remote teams or working across time zones.
Use Your Network
Many remote HR opportunities aren’t publicly posted — so it pays to connect with others in the industry.
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Join HR communities on LinkedIn or Slack
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Reach out to past colleagues or classmates
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Attend virtual HR webinars or meetups
A personal recommendation or referral can make all the difference in getting your resume noticed. In fact, around 70% of job openings are never even advertised — so tapping into your network could uncover remote HR opportunities you won’t find on job boards.
Prepare for Virtual Interviews
Expect to be asked about how you handle conflict, maintain confidentiality, and build relationships remotely. Practice answers that show you’re empathetic, solution-focused, and tech-comfortable. Bonus points if you can demonstrate how you’ve helped boost morale or support teams during times of change.
Is a Remote HR Career Right for You?
Remote human resources jobs are more than just a trend — they’re part of a shift in how companies support their people. If you’re someone who cares about culture, communication, and career growth (your own and others’), working remotely in HR could be the perfect fit. You’ll need the right mix of experience, people skills, and remote readiness — but now’s a great time to make your move. Ready to start? Explore current openings for remote HR opportunities and take the first step toward your next chapter in human resources — wherever you are.
Start Your Remote HR Job Search Today
Ready to take the next step in your remote HR career? Become a Virtual Vocations member today and access remote HR jobs from top companies we’ve hand-screened for you. With exclusive tools, expert resources, and personalized support, you’ll be one step closer to landing the flexible role you’ve been looking for.
What remote HR jobs caught your eye? Why do you want to do your HR job remotely? Connect with Virtual Vocations on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube to share your thoughts and tips. We’d love to hear from you!
Original September 2021 article written by Eric Schad.
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