Human Resources Specialist in Bellevue, NE

The Salary Picture: Where Bellevue Stands

As a local, I can tell you that Bellevue's salary landscape for Human Resources Specialists is a study in contrasts. The median salary of $66,127/year (or $31.79/hour) sits comfortably above the national average for many mid-sized cities, but it's crucial to understand the full spectrum. The 10-year job growth of 8% is solid, reflecting steady demand in the healthcare, manufacturing, and federal sectors that anchor this community. However, with only 128 jobs in the metro area, competition can be fierce, and specialization is often key to climbing the ladder.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect based on experience level. These figures are approximate for the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area, which heavily influences Bellevue's market.

Experience Level	Typical Bellevue Salary Range	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$48,000 - $58,000	Benefits administration, basic payroll support, onboarding paperwork, maintaining personnel files.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$66,127 (Median) - $78,000	Full-cycle recruitment, employee relations, compliance (OSHA, NE labor laws), training program coordination.
Senior-Level (8-12 years)	$80,000 - $95,000	HR strategy, leadership development, complex labor relations, managing HRIS systems, policy creation.
Expert/Manager (12+ years)	$96,000 - $120,000+	Director-level oversight, organizational development, mergers & acquisitions, executive compensation, leading HR teams.

Local Insight: The national average of $67,650 is only slightly higher than Bellevue's median. This tells us that Bellevue pays competitively, but your ceiling might be lower than in a major coastal city. The real value here is the cost of living, which we'll get to next.

When you compare Bellevue to other Nebraska cities, it holds its own. Omaha, being the major metro, has a higher cost of living and slightly higher salaries (closer to $70k median), but the commute and urban density are different. Lincoln, home to the state university and government, also trends higher. Smaller cities like Grand Island or Kearney have lower median salaries (often in the $55k-$60k range) but also significantly lower housing costs. Bellevue strikes a balance—it’s a large suburb with big-city amenities (thanks to its proximity to Omaha) without the intense competition or price tag.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s be blunt: a salary is only as good as what it buys you. In Bellevue, the cost of living index is 92.5 (US avg = 100), meaning your dollar goes further here than the national average. The most significant cost is housing.

For a Human Resources Specialist earning the median salary of $66,127, here’s a realistic monthly take-home budget. (Estimates based on Nebraska's state tax (5.15%), federal tax, and FICA; assumes single filer, standard deduction).

Income/Expense	Monthly Amount	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$5,511	Before any deductions.
Estimated Taxes & Deductions	~$1,250	Federal, state (5.15%), FICA (7.65%). Varies with 401k, health premiums.
Net Take-Home Pay	~$4,261	Your "in-the-pocket" amount.
Average 1BR Rent	$878	A key affordability metric.
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet)	$250	Nebraska has seasonal extremes.
Groceries	$350	Based on USDA low-cost plan.
Transportation (Gas/Insurance)	$300	Bellevue is car-dependent.
Health Insurance	$200	If not fully employer-covered.
Retirement (401k, 5% match)	$275	Crucial for long-term growth.
Miscellaneous (Entertainment, etc.)	$500	Discretionary spending.
Remaining Balance	~$1,508	Savings, debt, or extra payments.

Can they afford to buy a home? Yes, but it requires planning. The median home price in Bellevue is around $240,000. On a $66,127 salary, a $240k home is at the upper edge of affordability (roughly 3.6x your income). With a 10% down payment ($24,000), a mortgage would be around $1,500/month (including taxes/insurance). This is feasible but would consume about 35% of your gross monthly income, which is the upper limit lenders typically recommend. Saving the down payment on a $31.79/hour wage is the biggest hurdle. Many locals pair up or live with family initially to build savings.

Where the Jobs Are: Bellevue's Major Employers

Bellevue’s job market is unique, anchored by a mix of federal, healthcare, and manufacturing giants. HR roles here are often stable but require navigating specific industry cultures.

1. Offutt Air Force Base: The 55th Wing is the largest employer in the area. HR roles here are often through the federal government (USAJobs) or contractor companies like Booz Allen Hamilton or Leidos. You’ll deal with DOD regulations, security clearances, and a highly structured environment. Hiring Trend: Steady, with periodic surges due to base expansions or contract renewals.
2. CHI Health (Immanuel Medical Center & others): As part of one of the largest health systems in the region, Immanuel (just north of Bellevue) and the Bellevue Medical Center are major employers. HR roles here focus on high-volume recruitment (nurses, technicians), strict healthcare compliance (HIPAA), and union negotiations. Hiring Trend: Consistent demand, especially for recruiters and benefits specialists.
3. Union Pacific Railroad: While headquartered in Omaha, UP has significant facilities and a massive workforce in the Bellevue/South Omaha area. HR here is massive-scale: labor relations, safety training (OSHA), and managing a unionized workforce. Hiring Trend: Cyclical but stable; tied to rail industry health.
4. Valmont Industries: A global leader in engineered products for agriculture and infrastructure, with a major campus in nearby Valley. They need HR professionals skilled in manufacturing environments, safety protocols, and global talent management. Hiring Trend: Growing, especially in areas like talent development and diversity & inclusion.
5. Carolyn’s Farm Kitchen / Local Food Processing: A stand-in for the numerous food processing plants in the region (like Tyson in Dakota City, a 45-min drive). These plants have high-turnover, unionized workforces requiring robust HR presence for recruitment, employee relations, and safety. Hiring Trend: Constant need for on-the-ground HR support.
6. Bellevue Public Schools: The school district is a major public employer. HR roles here are focused on education professionals—certification compliance, teacher recruitment, and managing classified staff. Hiring Trend: Steady, with retirements creating openings.

Insider Tip: The 128 jobs in the metro means you must be proactive. Don’t just wait for postings. Network at the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce events and join the Nebraska SHRM chapter. Many Bellevue HR jobs are never officially listed; they’re filled through referrals.

Getting Licensed in NE

Nebraska does not have a state-specific license to be an HR Specialist. However, certification is highly recommended and often expected for career advancement, especially in larger organizations like those listed above.

• Key Certifications: The PHR (Professional in Human Resources) or SHRM-CP (SHRM Certified Professional) are the industry standards. The SPHR (Senior Professional) or SHRM-SCP are for senior roles.
• Costs: Exam fees range from $300-$400 for SHRM and $395-$545 for HRCI (PHR/SPHR). Study materials and courses can add $500-$1,500.
• Timeline: You can sit for the exam with a combination of education and experience. For a mid-level specialist, 2-4 years of experience is typical. Studying for the exam takes 3-6 months of dedicated preparation.
• Process: You apply through SHRM.org or hrci.org. No state application is needed. Your certification is national and does not require renewal in Nebraska, but you must maintain it through recertification every 3 years (via continuing education or retaking the exam).

Local Insight: If you're moving from another state, your existing certification (PHR/SHRM) is fully transferable. Nebraska’s Department of Labor website is the primary resource for state labor law posters and regulations, which you’ll need to know for compliance work.

Best Neighborhoods for Human Resources Specialists

Bellevue is compact, but neighborhoods vary in vibe and cost. Commute times to major employers are generally short (10-20 minutes).

1. Old Town Bellevue: Historic core with older homes, walkable to local shops and restaurants. Commute: 5-10 mins to Offutt, 15 mins to Omaha. Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,200 for a 1BR. Vibe: Quaint, community-focused. Good for those who want character.
2. South Bellevue (near Fort Crook): Newer subdivisions, family-oriented, close to parks. Commute: 10 mins to Offutt, 15-20 mins to Omaha. Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,000 for a 1BR. Vibe: Suburban, quiet, excellent for families.
3. Galaxy Pointe/Industrial Area: Modern apartments and townhomes, near shopping centers (like Twin Creek). Commute: 5 mins to Offutt, 15 mins to Omaha. Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,100 for a 1BR. Vibe: Convenient, new, geared toward young professionals.
4. Near the Missouri River (Offutt area): Older, more affordable apartments and rentals. Commute: 5 mins to base, 15 mins to Omaha. Rent Estimate: $700 - $900 for a 1BR. Vibe: Functional, no-frills, ideal for saving money.
5. La Vista (Adjacent City): A separate city but a 5-minute drive from Bellevue. More retail and dining options, newer apartments. Commute: 15-20 mins to Offutt, 10 mins to Omaha. Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,200 for a 1BR. Vibe: Slightly more urban, great amenities.

Insider Tip: For an HR professional, living in Old Town or Galaxy Pointe puts you closer to networking events in Omaha, while South Bellevue is ideal for settling down. Always check for flood zones near the river.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Bellevue, career growth for HR Specialists is less about rapid vertical jumps and more about strategic specialization and gaining trust within large, stable employers.

• Specialty Premiums: You can boost your salary beyond the median by specializing:
  • Labor Relations: Highly valued at Union Pacific and manufacturing plants. Can command a 10-15% premium.
  • HRIS/Technology: Expertise in systems like Workday or SAP is sought after at larger healthcare and federal contractors. Can add $10k+ to your salary.
  • Talent Acquisition (Recruiting): Critical in healthcare and at the base. Strong recruiters are always in demand.
• Advancement Paths: The typical path is from Specialist → Generalist → HR Manager (at a mid-sized company) or moving into a center of excellence (like Training or Compensation) at a larger firm. The next step is often HR Director for a local business or Senior HR Business Partner at a major employer like CHI or Valmont.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 8% job growth is promising. The key will be the health of Offutt AFB (a major economic driver) and the continued expansion of healthcare in Omaha. The shift toward remote work for corporate HQs in Omaha could also benefit Bellevue residents who can commute or work hybrid.

Personal Insight: The most successful HR professionals I know here have dual certifications (e.g., PHR + a specialty like HRIS) and have built a reputation at one major employer for 5+ years. Loyalty is rewarded, but you must be intentional about seeking promotions.

The Verdict: Is Bellevue Right for You?

Bellevue offers a stable, affordable, and community-oriented life for HR professionals, but it's not for everyone. Here’s a clear breakdown:

Pros	Cons
Affordable cost of living (Index 92.5) with median salary of $66,127.	Limited job market (only 128 jobs in the metro).
Stable employers (Offutt, CHI, UP) with long-term HR needs.	Car-dependent city; limited public transit.
Short commutes (often under 20 mins) and easy access to Omaha.	Career ceiling may be lower than in major coastal hubs.
Strong sense of community and family-friendly neighborhoods.	Harsh winters and flat geography can be a lifestyle adjustment.
8% job growth indicates a healthy, expanding market.	Less diverse industry compared to larger metros.

Final Recommendation: Bellevue is an excellent choice for an HR Specialist who values stability, low living costs, and a strong community. It’s ideal for mid-career professionals looking to buy a home or raise a family. It’s not ideal for those seeking rapid career growth in a high-competition, startup-heavy environment or who prioritize walkability and nightlife. If you’re a self-starter who can build a niche and network effectively, you can build a very comfortable and rewarding career here.

FAQs

1. Can I live in Bellevue and commute to Omaha for a higher salary?
Absolutely. Many HR professionals do this. An HR Specialist in Omaha might earn $5k-$10k more (closer to the national average of $67,650), and the commute via I-80 or I-480 is often 20-30 minutes. You get the best of both worlds: a higher salary potential and Bellevue's affordable housing.

2. Do I need to know military terminology to work at Offutt?
Not as an HR Specialist in the civilian sector (federal employee or contractor). You'll learn the basics (like ranks, groups), but your focus is on applying federal HR regulations (OPM guidelines), not military operations. Insider Tip: Understanding security clearance processes is a huge plus.

3. What's the biggest challenge for HR in Bellevue?
Talent retention, especially in healthcare and manufacturing. The local market is tight, and companies often lose candidates to Omaha. Your value will be in creating compelling employee experiences and competitive compensation packages within budget constraints.

4. Are there opportunities for remote HR work based in Bellevue?
Yes, but they’re growing slowly. Some corporate HQs in Omaha offer hybrid roles. However, most 128 local jobs are on-site due to the nature of employers like hospitals, the base, and factories. Search for "remote HR" in the Omaha area on LinkedIn.

5. How do I get started if I'm moving from out of state?
Secure a job first—use USAJobs.gov for federal positions, LinkedIn for corporate roles, and local healthcare job boards. Then, choose a neighborhood based on your commute. Rent for 6-12 months to learn the area before buying. Get your PHR/SHRM-CP if you don't have it; it's the universal key to the local market.