Human Resources Specialist in Hattiesburg, MS

The Salary Picture: Where Hattiesburg Stands

Moving to Hattiesburg for a career in Human Resources means understanding the local economic landscape. As a local, I can tell you that while the pay might seem lower than national averages at first glance, the cost of living adjusts that equation significantly. Let's break down the numbers.

According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local economic reports, the median salary for a Human Resources Specialist in the Hattiesburg metro area is $65,478/year. This translates to an hourly rate of approximately $31.48/hour. It's important to note that this is a median figure, meaning half of the specialists in the area earn more, and half earn less. The national average for this role sits at $67,650/year, putting Hattiesburg just slightly below the U.S. average. However, the job market is stable, with an estimated 97 jobs currently in the metro and a 10-year job growth projection of 8%, which is steady if not explosive.

To give you a clearer picture of how earnings progress with experience, here’s a local breakdown:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities in Hattiesburg
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$48,000 - $55,000	Benefits administration, basic employee onboarding, assisting with payroll for local manufacturing or retail firms.
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$60,000 - $72,000	Full-cycle recruiting, managing employee relations issues, compliance (OSHA, MS labor laws), supporting a department of 50-200 employees.
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$75,000 - $90,000	HR strategy for local hospitals or mid-sized corporations, leading diversity initiatives, advanced conflict resolution, policy development.
Expert/Leadership (15+ years)	$95,000+	HR Director roles for major local employers, overseeing entire HR departments, strategic planning, and serving as a key business partner.

When comparing to other Mississippi cities, Hattiesburg's salary is competitive within the state. It's typically higher than smaller towns like Laurel or Columbia but lower than the Jackson metro area, where median salaries might reach the $70,000 - $75,000 range due to a higher concentration of corporate and government jobs. However, the cost of living in Jackson is also notably higher.

Insider Tip: The $65,478 median is a solid starting point for negotiations, especially if you have specialized skills in benefits administration or experience with HRIS systems like ADP or Paylocity, which are commonly used by larger local employers.

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The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $65,478 sounds promising, but what does it mean for your daily life in Hattiesburg? Let's run the numbers. After federal taxes, state taxes (Mississippi's progressive tax structure tops out at 5%), and FICA, your take-home pay will be approximately $4,800 - $5,000 per month.

Now, factor in housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Hattiesburg is $906/month. This is significantly lower than the national average. Here’s a sample monthly budget for an HR Specialist earning the median salary:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$4,900	After taxes for a single filer with standard deductions.
Rent (1-BR)	$906	This is the city average. You can find options from $750 to $1,100 depending on neighborhood.
Utilities	$180	Includes electricity, water, and internet. Summers (AC) can be pricey.
Groceries & Household	$400	Hattiesburg has competitive grocery prices with stores like Kroger, Publix, and local markets.
Transportation	$300	Assume a car payment, gas, and insurance. Public transit is limited.
Health Insurance	$250	If provided by employer, your share could be lower.
Miscellaneous	$500	Dining out, entertainment, gym, personal care.
Savings/Debt	$2,164	This is a strong amount for savings, student loans, or a mortgage payment.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With a take-home pay of ~$4,900 and a mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) for a $200,000 home often falling between $1,200 - $1,400, it's very feasible. The median home price in Hattiesburg is around $175,000, making homeownership a realistic goal for most HR professionals here within a few years of saving.

Insider Tip: The Cost of Living Index for Hattiesburg is 89.3 (compared to the US average of 100). This means your dollar stretches about 10.7% further than the national average, making that $65,478 salary feel more like $72,500 in terms of purchasing power in a higher-cost city.

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Where the Jobs Are: Hattiesburg's Major Employers

Hattiesburg's economy is anchored by healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Here are the key players where HR Specialists find stable, rewarding work:

1. Forrest General Hospital / Hattiesburg Clinic: This is the largest employer in the area. They hire HR generalists and specialists to manage a workforce of over 4,000. Hiring trends show a steady need for HR professionals with experience in healthcare compliance (HIPAA) and employee wellness programs.
2. The University of Southern Mississippi (USM): With over 1,500 employees, USM is a major employer. Their HR department handles everything from faculty tenure processes to student worker compliance. They often have openings for benefits specialists and recruiters.
3. Mississippi Power (Southern Company): A regional utility company with a significant local presence. Their HR roles are often focused on safety compliance (OSHA), union relations, and technical career development programs. Salaries here are typically at the higher end of the local range.
4. Hub City Industries (Manufacturing): This collective of manufacturers, including companies like Kimberly-Clark, provides numerous HR roles. The focus is on plant safety, shift-worker scheduling, and managing a blue-collar workforce. Experience with manufacturing labor laws is a plus.
5. Hattiesburg Public Schools District: The district employs over 1,000 people. HR specialists here manage teacher recruitment, certification, and benefits for a diverse staff. Positions are stable but often require patience with bureaucracy.
6. Local Branches of National Retailers & Banks: Companies like Walmart, Target, and banks like Cadence Bank have regional management and HR offices in Hattiesburg. These roles offer a path into corporate HR with a local footprint.

Insider Tip: Many of these employers use the local "Hattiesburg Area Chamber of Commerce" job board. Networking at Chamber events is more effective here than cold applications. Also, USM's College of Business & Economic Development is a prime source for entry-level talent, so knowing that can help you understand your competition.

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Getting Licensed in Mississippi

Unlike some states, Mississippi does not require state-specific licensing to work as an HR Specialist. The profession is generally regulated through national certifications and professional standards.

However, for career advancement, certifications are highly recommended and often expected for senior roles. The most recognized national certifications are:

• SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional): For those with less than 4 years of experience. The exam fee is around $300 for SHRM members.
• PHR (Professional in Human Resources from HRCI): Another entry-level option. Exam fee is approximately $395.
• SHRM-SCP or SPHR: For senior-level professionals (typically 8+ years of experience). Exam fees are similar to the lower-level certifications.

Timeline to Get Started:

1. Eligibility: Meet the education/experience requirements for your chosen certification (check SHRM.org and HRCI.org for details).
2. Study: Most candidates spend 2-4 months studying. There are local study groups through the Mississippi SHRM chapter, which has a local council in the Pine Belt.
3. Exam: Exams are offered at testing centers in Hattiesburg (often at USM or local testing facilities). You can register and take the exam within a month of deciding to pursue it.
4. Costs: Beyond the exam fee, budget $150-$300 for study materials (books, online prep courses).

Insider Tip: Many employers in Hattiesburg, especially hospitals and larger manufacturers, offer tuition or certification reimbursement. Always ask about this during your interview. A $500 exam fee can be covered, making your professional development cost-effective.

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Best Neighborhoods for Human Resources Specialists

Hattiesburg is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each offering a different lifestyle for the working professional.

1. The Avenues (Hattiesburg Historic District): This is the classic, beautiful area near downtown and USM. Think historic homes, oak-canopied streets, and a walkable vibe. It's popular with professionals in their 30s and 40s who want character. Commute to major employers like Forrest General or downtown offices is a breeze (5-10 minutes).

   • Rent Estimate: A 1-BR in a historic duplex or apartment ranges from $950 - $1,200.

2. West Hattiesburg / Lake Serene: This area is newer, with modern apartment complexes and single-family homes. It's close to the new commercial development along Highway 98, including Target and newer restaurants. Commute is easy via Hardy Street, but traffic can be heavier. Ideal for younger professionals or those who prefer newer amenities.

   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,000 for a modern 1-BR apartment.

3. Oak Grove: Located just south of the city, this area is known for its excellent school district and quiet, suburban feel. It's a 15-20 minute commute to most Hattiesburg employers. Perfect for HR professionals with families or those who want more space and a quieter environment.

   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,100 for a townhome or small house.

4. Midtown / 9th Avenue: An up-and-coming area with a mix of renovated bungalows and apartments. It's central, with quick access to I-59, and has a growing scene of coffee shops and breweries. Commutes are very short to most central locations. A good choice for those who want to be close to the action but not in the thick of USM student life.

   • Rent Estimate: $700 - $950 for various apartment styles.

Insider Tip: If you work at USM or downtown, living in The Avenues or Midtown means you can often walk or bike to work. This saves on gas and parking, a huge plus during football season when parking near campus is a nightmare.

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The Long Game: Career Growth in Hattiesburg

A career in HR in Hattiesburg is a marathon, not a sprint. The 8% growth over 10 years indicates stability, not cut-throat competition. Your growth will come from specialization and building deep local networks.

Specialty Premiums:

• HRIS/Technology: Specialists proficient in HR technology (Workday, ADP, advanced Excel) can command a 10-15% salary premium.
• Employee Relations/Mediation: In a close-knit community like Hattiesburg, skills in conflict resolution are highly valued, especially with healthcare and manufacturing unions.
• Labor Relations in Manufacturing: This is a niche but critical skill in the Pine Belt. Professionals who can navigate union contracts are well-compensated and in demand.

Advancement Paths:
The typical path is from Specialist → HR Generalist → HR Manager → HR Director. The key is to move from one industry to another (e.g., from retail to healthcare) to gain diverse experience. Many HR Directors in Hattiesburg have spent their entire careers in the region, moving between the major employers listed above.

10-Year Outlook:
With the stability of the healthcare and education sectors, HR jobs in Hattiesburg will remain secure. The growth will likely come from the expansion of existing employers and the potential for small business growth. The rise of remote work is also creating new opportunities for local HR professionals to support distributed teams for companies based in other states, while living in a low-cost area.

Insider Tip: The most significant career growth often happens by moving to a larger company after 3-5 years in a smaller one. It's common to start at a local manufacturing firm, then move to Forrest General or USM for more complex HR challenges and higher pay.

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The Verdict: Is Hattiesburg Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living – Your salary goes far. Homeownership is achievable.	Lower Ceiling – Top-end salaries (vs. national) may cap at $90k-$100k for non-executive roles.
Stable Job Market – Anchored by healthcare, education, and manufacturing.	Limited Niche Opportunities – Fewer roles in tech or finance HR compared to larger metros.
Strong Community Network – Easy to build relationships; referrals matter.	Potential for "Cliquey" Environments – Long-tenured employees can make it hard to integrate as an outsider.
Southern Lifestyle – Friendly, slower pace, good food, and a college town vibe.	Dependence on Car – Public transit is limited; you will need a reliable vehicle.
Outdoor Access – Proximity to forests, rivers, and parks is great for work-life balance.	Hurricane Season – The area is in the Gulf Coast region, requiring preparedness for storms.

Final Recommendation:
Hattiesburg is an excellent choice for Human Resources Specialists who value work-life balance, community, and financial stability over the frenetic pace of a major coastal city. If you're early to mid-career and want to build a solid foundation without crushing rent, it's hard to beat. It's also ideal for professionals with families seeking a safe, affordable environment with good schools.

If your primary goal is to maximize salary above all else and you're in a high-demand HR specialty (like global mobility), a larger metro might be better. But for most HR generalists, Hattiesburg offers a rewarding, sustainable career path.

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FAQs

1. How competitive is the job market for HR Specialists in Hattiesburg?
The market is moderately competitive. With only 97 jobs listed, openings don't last forever, but it's not the hyper-competitive environment of a major city. Having a local network and tailoring your resume to specific employers (like highlighting healthcare compliance for a hospital role) will give you a significant edge.

2. Is a SHRM or HRCI certification necessary to get hired?
While not always mandatory for entry-level roles, it is increasingly expected for mid-career positions and is almost a requirement for senior-level and manager roles. In a market with limited openings, having the certification makes your resume stand out immediately.

3. What is the commute like in Hattiesburg?
Excellent by national standards. The average commute time is under 20 minutes. Major employers are clustered, and the main arteries (Hardy Street, Highway 98, I-59) are manageable. Traffic jams are rare and usually related to accidents or game days at USM.

4. Can I work in HR remotely from Hattiesburg?
Yes, this is a growing trend. Many local HR professionals now work remotely for companies based in Mississippi or even nationally. Hattiesburg's low cost of living makes it an attractive base for remote workers. Check local job boards for "remote" HR roles; you'll find more than you might expect.

5. What's the best way to network locally?
Attend events hosted by the Mississippi SHRM Pine Belt Chapter. Also, join the Hattiesburg Area Chamber of Commerce and attend their young professionals or business women's groups. Volunteering for local nonprofits is another excellent way to build connections in a community-oriented city like Hattiesburg.