Human Resources Specialist in Burlington, VT

The Salary Picture: Where Burlington Stands

As a Human Resources Specialist in Burlington, your earning potential is firmly anchored to the national median. The data is straightforward and, frankly, a reflection of Vermont's unique market—stable, but not flush with the explosive growth you might see in larger tech hubs. The median salary for a Human Resources Specialist in Burlington is $67,650/year, which translates to a solid $32.52/hour. It's important to note that this figure aligns perfectly with the national average of $67,650/year, which is somewhat unusual. Many Vermont salaries lag behind national averages, but Burlington’s status as a regional hub for healthcare, education, and tech (albeit small-scale) keeps HR compensation competitive.

The job market in the metro area is tight and specific. There are approximately 89 jobs for Human Resources Specialists in the Burlington metropolitan area at any given time. This isn't a market where you can easily jump between companies; it requires a strategic approach. The 10-year job growth for this field in Vermont is projected at 8%, which is slightly slower than the national average but indicates steady, reliable demand, primarily driven by an aging workforce in existing companies and the need for compliance and talent management in growing sectors like healthcare and professional services.

To understand where you fit, here’s a breakdown by experience level. Note that these are realistic estimates for the Burlington market, where titles can be fluid and responsibilities often overlap in smaller organizations.

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Salary Range (Burlington, VT)	Typical Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$52,000 - $61,000	Benefits administration, onboarding, initial recruitment support, maintaining employee records.
Mid-Level	3-7 years	$65,000 - $78,000	Full-cycle recruitment, employee relations, policy development, performance management, some HRIS management.
Senior-Level	8-15 years	$80,000 - $95,000	Strategic HR planning, complex employee relations issues, training & development programs, HRIS implementation/management.
Expert/Leadership	15+ years	$95,000 - $115,000+	HR Director/Manager roles, organizational development, labor law compliance, executive compensation, leading HR teams.

When compared to other Vermont cities, Burlington is the clear leader in both opportunity and compensation. In Montpelier, the state capital, you might find a similar salary range but fewer open positions (closer to 40-50). In Rutland or Bennington, salaries can drop by 10-15%, and the job count is significantly lower. For an HR specialist, Burlington offers the most robust ecosystem for career movement and networking.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A salary of $67,650/year sounds reasonable, but the real question is what it buys you in Burlington. The city has a high cost of living, primarily driven by housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,441/month, and the Cost of Living Index is 100.0, exactly matching the national average. This means while housing is expensive, other goods and services are on par with the rest of the country.

Let’s break down a monthly budget for an HR Specialist earning the median salary. We’ll assume a standard bi-weekly paycheck, with deductions for federal/state taxes, Social Security, Medicare, and Vermont’s state income tax (which ranges from 3.35% to 8.75% based on income). A rough estimate for take-home pay after these deductions is approximately $4,100/month.

Monthly Expense Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$4,100	After taxes & deductions from $67,650 salary.
Rent (1BR avg.)	$1,441	Can range from $1,200 in South End to $1,600+ in Old North End.
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet)	$180	Burlington has cold winters; heating costs are a real factor.
Groceries	$350	Competitive with national averages; local co-ops (City Market) are popular but pricier.
Car Payment/Insurance	$450	Assumes a modest car payment; insurance is high in VT due to weather (deer, ice).
Gas/Transportation	$120	Limited public transit; driving is common.
Health Insurance (if not employer-paid)	$200	A significant variable; many local employers offer good plans.
Miscellaneous (Dining, Entertainment, Personal)	$500	Leftover for savings, debt, or leisure.
Remaining Balance	$859	This is your buffer for savings, student loans, or unexpected costs.

Can you afford to buy a home? It's challenging but not impossible, especially as a dual-income household. The median home price in Burlington is over $400,000. A $67,650 salary alone would likely secure a mortgage for a starter home or condo in the $250,000 - $300,000 range, which exists but requires diligent searching in areas like the Old North End or Winooski (a separate city but part of the metro). For a single person, renting is the more financially prudent option initially, allowing you to save for a down payment without stretching your budget too thin.

Where the Jobs Are: Burlington's Major Employers

Burlington’s economy is a mix of education, healthcare, and professional services, with a growing tech and creative sector. HR jobs are concentrated in these key employers. The hiring trend is for HR Generalists who can handle a wide range of duties, as most local companies are mid-sized and lack large, specialized HR teams.

1. University of Vermont (UVM) & UVM Medical Center: The largest employer in the region. UVM (the university) and the UVM Medical Center (the affiliated hospital system) are essentially two sides of the same coin. They hire HR specialists for everything from faculty recruitment to clinical staff onboarding. Insider tip: Knowledge of academic calendars and healthcare credentialing is a huge plus here. They post jobs on their own portals frequently.

2. Burlington Electric Department & City of Burlington: The municipal government is a stable employer with good benefits. They handle HR for all city departments, from the police to the library. Jobs are posted on the City of Burlington website. Hiring is often slow but steady.

3. Dealer.com (now part of Cox Automotive): While tech-heavy, Dealer.com has a significant corporate operations side and requires HR support for its local workforce. They look for specialists who understand fast-paced, modern work environments and tech talent acquisition.

4. Ben & Jerry’s: A Vermont icon with a local headquarters and production facility. Their HR focus is unique, often centered on their social mission, culture, and employee engagement. It's a highly coveted role for those wanting to blend HR with corporate social responsibility.

5. Kaman’s Art Shoppes: A large regional retailer and professional services firm based in nearby Essex Junction. They have a robust HR department for their corporate and retail staff, offering opportunities in recruitment, training, and labor relations.

6. Local Banks & Credit Unions (e.g., Vermont Federal Credit Union, KeyBank): The financial services sector in Burlington is stable and requires HR professionals adept at compliance and employee relations in a regulated industry.

7. Small Tech & Creative Agencies: Companies like MyWebGrocer or the many small digital marketing firms in the South End often hire their first dedicated HR person as they grow. These roles are dynamic but can be less structured.

Getting Licensed in VT

Vermont does not have a mandatory state license for Human Resources Generalists. However, professional certification is highly respected and often preferred by employers, especially for mid-level and senior roles. The most recognized certification is the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) from the HR Certification Institute (HRCI).

Requirements & Process:

• PHR: Requires a minimum of 1-4 years of professional HR experience (depending on your education level). The exam focuses on operational aspects of HR.
• SPHR: Requires 4-7+ years of professional HR experience. The exam is more strategic.
• Cost: The exam fee is approximately $395 for HRCI members and $495 for non-members. Study materials and prep courses can add $300 - $1,000.
• Timeline: It typically takes 3-6 months of study to prepare for the exam. You can sit for the exam year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers (the nearest is in South Burlington).
• State Credential: While not a license, Vermont employers highly value the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP (Society for Human Resource Management) certifications as well. The process is similar.

Insider Tip: Many local employers, like UVM and the larger hospitals, will often reimburse certification costs upon passing. It’s a great question to ask during an interview. There is no state-specific "Vermont HR license," so your national certification is your key credential.

Best Neighborhoods for Human Resources Specialists

Where you live in Burlington affects your commute, budget, and lifestyle. The city is compact, and most commutes are under 15 minutes by car.

1. South End (Arts District): Trendy, with a mix of renovated industrial spaces and classic homes. Close to many creative agencies and Dealer.com. Rent for a 1BR: $1,500 - $1,700. Best for those who want a walkable, vibrant area with easy access to restaurants and breweries.

2. Old North End: The most diverse and historic neighborhood. Offers a mix of student housing, single-family homes, and apartments. It's central and has a strong community feel. Rent for a 1BR: $1,300 - $1,500. A great balance of affordability and location.

3. South Hill (near UVM): Primarily student and academic housing. Can be noisy and competitive to rent. Not ideal for a professional unless you work on campus. Rent for a 1BR: $1,400 - $1,600.

4. Winooski: Technically a separate city but part of the metro area. It has a revitalized downtown with a strong sense of community, great restaurants, and slightly more affordable housing. A 5-10 minute commute to downtown Burlington. Rent for a 1BR: $1,300 - $1,500.

5. Shelburne/Essex (Suburbs): If you prefer a quieter, more suburban lifestyle and don't mind a 15-20 minute commute, these towns offer more space and newer housing stock. Rent for a 1BR: $1,400 - $1,600 (less common, more condos/townhomes).

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 8% job growth over 10 years indicates a stable, if not explosive, market. Growth for you will come from specialization and moving into leadership.

• Specialty Premiums: In Burlington, you can command a salary premium by developing expertise in:

  • Healthcare HR: UVM Medical Center and other clinics need specialists in credentialing, compliance (HIPAA), and clinical recruitment. This can add a 5-10% premium to your salary.
  • Higher Ed HR: Understanding faculty tenure processes and academic HR is a niche skill valuable at UVM and other local colleges.
  • HRIS/Technology: Proficiency in systems like Workday, ADP, or BambooHR is critical and can set you apart, especially in tech-forward companies like Dealer.com.

• Advancement Path: The typical path is from HR Specialist to HR Generalist, then to HR Manager, and finally to HR Director. In Burlington, the jump to HR Manager (often at a $85,000 - $100,000 salary) is the most significant. It requires strategic thinking, budget management, and often a certification (SPHR). The Director level is rare (only in the largest employers) but pays $110,000+.

• 10-Year Outlook: The market will remain stable. The biggest driver of change will be the continued digital transformation of HR functions and the need to navigate an increasingly remote/hybrid work model, which is also affecting Vermont companies. Networking locally through the Vermont SHRM chapter is essential for long-term growth.

The Verdict: Is Burlington Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable Job Market: With 89 jobs and 8% growth, it's a reliable market.	High Housing Costs: Rent is the biggest budget strain.
Work-Life Balance: Burlington is famous for it. Access to outdoor recreation is unparalleled.	Competitive Job Market: Fewer openings mean you need to be a strong candidate.
Strong Professional Network: Vermont's business community is tight-knit and supportive.	Slower Pace: Career advancement can be slower than in major metros.
Unique Culture: A blend of progressive values, localism, and outdoor lifestyle.	Seasonality: Winters are long and can impact morale and commuting.
Good Benefits: Major employers like UVM and the city offer excellent benefits packages.	Limited Diversity in Roles: You'll likely wear many hats; specialization comes later.

Final Recommendation: Burlington is an excellent fit for an HR Specialist who values quality of life over rapid career acceleration. If you enjoy a close-knit community, outdoor activities, and a stable, albeit modest, professional path, it's a fantastic choice. It's less ideal if you're seeking a high-energy, high-growth corporate environment with constant job-hopping opportunities. For the right person, the $67,650 salary, combined with Burlington's lifestyle, offers a high quality of life that is hard to find elsewhere.

FAQs

1. How hard is it to find a job as an HR Specialist in Burlington?
It's competitive due to the small number of openings (89 jobs). Networking is key. Join the Vermont SHRM chapter and connect with local recruiters on LinkedIn. Be prepared for a longer search, potentially 3-6 months.

2. Do I need a car in Burlington?
Yes, strongly recommended. While the core downtown is walkable, and there's a bus system, many employers (like in Essex Junction or South Burlington) are not easily accessible by public transit. Winters make walking or biking less reliable.

3. What's the interview process like with Vermont employers?
It's often more personal and less formal than in big cities. Expect multiple interviews, including with potential team members. They care about cultural fit. Insider tip: Do your homework on the company's mission and values, especially for mission-driven orgs like Ben & Jerry's or non-profits.

4. Can I live in Burlington on a single HR salary?
Yes, but budgeting is crucial. As the breakdown shows, after rent and essentials, you have about $800-$900 left for savings, debt, and discretionary spending. It's manageable, especially if you have no major debt, but building significant savings or buying a home will take time.

5. Are there opportunities for remote work?
Yes, especially post-pandemic. Many local companies offer hybrid schedules. However, for an HR Specialist, being on-site is often valued for employee relations and culture. Fully remote roles are more common with companies based outside Vermont that hire Vermont residents.