Army MOS · Support
42A Human Resources Specialist
Overview
A human resources specialist performs or supervises personnel and administrative functions across supported organizations and advises commanders, staff, and Soldiers on human resource matters. The specialist maintains officer and enlisted personnel records, processes personnel actions concerning Soldiers and their families, and participates in occupational classification and human resources management.
Minimum clearance: Secret, often with SCI exposure
Core Skills
- HR information systems operation
- personnel data management
- records management
- pay and benefits administration support
- customer service and support
- report generation and analysis
- regulatory and policy compliance
- onboarding and out-processing
- classification and position management support
- confidentiality and data privacy
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- Google Docs
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft SharePoint
Civilian Career Paths
- Human Resources
- Administration
- IT Management
- Help Desk Support
Training & Development
Getting Started
- SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) · Funded · Promotion points
- Professional in Human Resources (PHR) · Funded · Promotion points · STAR
Career Growth
- SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) · Funded · Promotion points
- Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)
What the Work Involves
- Process, verify, and maintain personnel related documentation, including staffing, recruitment, training, grievances, performance evaluations, classifications, and employee leaves of absence.
- Record data for each employee, including such information as addresses, weekly earnings, absences, amount of sales or production, supervisory reports on performance, and dates of and reasons for terminations.
- Explain company personnel policies, benefits, and procedures to employees or job applicants.
- Provide assistance in administering employee benefit programs and worker's compensation plans.
- Answer questions regarding examinations, eligibility, salaries, benefits, and other pertinent information.
Related Occupations
- Human Resources Specialists
- Human Resources Managers
- Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs
- Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Formerly Known As (Legacy)
Retired codes that converted into 42A. Each legacy page documents the cited history.
Similar Specialties
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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