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Human Resources Trainee Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Ecruit

Trainee Operator

Centreville, VA · On-site

$52K - $84K/yr

Trainee Operator | Grade 4 | $52,964 - $84,743 Open: August 17, 2026 Close: Open Until Filled *Two ... Please request a full from the HR Department All employment offers are contingent upon the ...

Nestle

Early Careers Specialist

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

... trainees. You'll develop solid relationships with business leaders, HR partners, and university liaisons to plan recruiting strategies for our Early Careers Programs. As a member of this fast-paced ...

Actalent

Entry Level Recruiter | Sales Trainee

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

We're looking for a highly motivated Entry-Level Recruiter | Sales Trainee to join our team and ... Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain ...

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All JobsHuman Resources JobsHuman Resources Trainee JobsHuman Resources Trainee Jobs in Washington

Human Resources Trainee information

See Washington salary details

$34.5K

$48.8K

$75.3K

How much do human resources trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for human resources trainee in Washington is $48,759.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $58,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a human resources trainee?

Human Resources Trainees are entry-level professionals who are learning the fundamentals of HR functions within an organization. They typically assist with tasks such as recruitment, onboarding, payroll, benefits administration, and employee relations under the supervision of experienced HR staff. The goal of a Human Resources Trainee is to gain practical experience and develop the skills needed for a successful career in human resources. Their role often involves both administrative duties and exposure to HR policies and procedures. Over time, they may take on more responsibilities and move into specialized HR roles.

What does a human resources trainee do?

As a human resources trainee, your primary responsibilities are to support the human resources (HR) department and personnel. Your job duties include assisting with recruitment, coordinating with job applicants, and conducting interviews. You welcome new staff and introduce them to their work environment. Your additional duties are to conduct research regarding current salaries, assist with employee evaluation, and process employee issues. As a trainee, your role revolves around learning the various aspects of human resources so that you may support the HR team.

What kind of tasks and projects can I expect to handle as a human resources trainee?

As a Human Resources Trainee, you can expect to support a variety of HR functions such as recruitment, onboarding, employee records management, and assisting with payroll or benefits administration. You'll likely participate in coordinating interviews, preparing documentation, and responding to employee inquiries. Many trainees also get involved in HR projects like organizing training sessions or supporting employee engagement initiatives. This hands-on exposure helps you understand the full employee lifecycle and prepares you for more specialized HR roles in the future.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a human resources trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Human Resources Trainee, you need a foundational understanding of HR principles, basic labor laws, and a relevant degree in human resources or a related field. Familiarity with HR information systems (HRIS), applicant tracking systems (ATS), and Microsoft Office Suite is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding trainees apart. These skills are vital for supporting HR functions, ensuring compliance, and fostering a positive workplace environment.

What is the difference between Human Resources Trainee vs Human Resources Assistant?

AspectHuman Resources TraineeHuman Resources Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in HR or related fieldUsually holds a diploma or bachelor's degree in HR or related area
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, training-focused, often in corporate HR departmentsSupport role within HR team, handling administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageInternships or training programs in various industriesFull-time support staff in HR departments across industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that a Human Resources Trainee is typically an entry-level or training position aimed at gaining experience, often held by students or recent graduates. In contrast, a Human Resources Assistant is a more established support role requiring some experience or education, focusing on administrative and operational HR tasks.

Can I apply for a human resources trainee position with no experience?

Human resources trainee positions often accept applicants with little or no prior experience, as they are designed to provide on-the-job training and skill development. Having relevant skills such as communication, organization, and basic knowledge of HR tools can improve your chances, but many employers consider motivated candidates willing to learn. Certifications like HR fundamentals can also be beneficial but are not always required for entry-level roles.

How can I get into a human resources trainee role with no experience?

To enter a human resources trainee role with no experience, focus on developing relevant skills such as communication, organization, and basic knowledge of employment laws. Gaining certifications like the SHRM-CP or completing internships can also improve your chances and demonstrate your interest in HR.
More about Human Resources Trainee jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Human Resources jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Human Resources jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Human Resources Trainee jobs in Washington?

For Human Resources Trainee jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Human Resources Trainee jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Human Resources Trainee jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Human Resources Trainee jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Human Resources Trainee job openings:

Human Resources Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Human Resources Trainee job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,759 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Human Resources Specialist (Compensation - NAF), NF-03/04

Alexandria, VA • On-site, Remote

Defense Human Resources Activity
See more jobs at Defense Human Resources Activityexternal

$51K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Summary
The Defense Civilian Personnel Advisory Service is the DOD enterprise leader in the development and delivery of civilian personnel policies and HR solutions that strengthen mission readiness.
It is the applicant's responsibility to read all sections and associated links in this vacancy announcement.
This vacancy may be used to fill additional positions within 90 days of the closing date.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
This is an entry trainee level position leading to the full performance level as described in PD #272 for the Human Resource Specialist (Compensation - NAF), NF-0201-04 position. Assignments are selected to ensure the development of skills and abilities needed to perform the target level duties. Completes a prescribed agenda of formal/informal classroom and on-the-job training and self-development as set forth in the individual Training Development Plan.
The employee works under closer than normal supervision wherein work is closely reviewed and detailed guidance provided. As employee progresses, supervisory control diminish until full performance level is reached.
At management's request, the incumbent may be non-competitive promoted after one year of satisfactory performance provided the target position guide is classifiable to its present title, pay plan, series, and pay band level at the time the incumbent has completed the required training, meets all regulatory and qualification requirements; and is performing the full scope of the major duties under the proper level of supervision.
Travels extensively to conduct on-site, in-depth interviews with private industry officials to obtain accurate and detailed data necessary for Full Scale, Wage Change, and Special Wage surveys as part of the Federal Wage System (FWS). Calls companies to be surveyed to set up in-person appointments in the wage survey area. Conducts follow-up work to clarify company operations, pay practices, and the accuracy of data collected. Interacts with local data collector partners, committees, and business officials visited. Conducts preparatory research regarding assigned wage areas and establishments. Pre- and post-survey work includes processing inventory reports, hearing reports, edits, and updating of the universe databases. Performs data entry and proofs data in the computer system.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Direct Deposit and Social Security Card are required upon appointment
  • Meet qualification/eligibility/background requirements for this position
  • Satisfactory completion of employment verification (E-Verify) check
  • One year probationary period may be required
  • A valid driver's license is required
  • Travel for this position up to 75% is required

Qualifications
RESUMES MUST BE TWO PAGES (OR LESS). QUALIFICATIONS MUST BE CLEARLY VERIFIABLE IN YOUR RESUME. GOVERNMENT POSITIONS MUST INCLUDE PAY PLAN, SERIES, GRADE, TO AND FROM DATES, AND GOVERNMENT AGENCY/DEPARTMENT. Must include at least one year of experience performing duties at a level which equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform successfully in the position.
Bachelor's degree or higher in any discipline from an accredited institution. Candidates anticipating graduation at the end of the current semester (no later than December 2026) will meet this requirement. Transcripts must be submitted with your resume to meet this qualification.
-OR-
Demonstrated experience performing one of the following: Gathering, organizing, and recording data for surveys; interviewing executive personnel/business leaders to gather data.
All candidates must have demonstrated proficiency in their resume using computer programs such as Microsoft Office Suite, Excel, Access, Word, PowerPoint.
In addition to the above, highly qualified candidates will also possess the following:
A bachelor's degree or higher specifically in one of the following disciplines (Candidates anticipating graduation at the end of the current semester will meet this requirement): Marketing, Business Administration/Management, Communications, Statistics, Human Resources, Hospitality Management, Psychology/Sociology, Political Science, Economics, or Public Relations.
-OR-
At least one year of demonstrated experience specifically in commissioned sales, cold-calling, telemarketing, or charitable fund-raising.
All Qualified applicants will be rated against the highly qualifying criteria by a rating panel for evaluation of the quality and extent of your total accomplishments, experience and education. Those applicants determined to be highly qualified will be referred to the hiring official for consideration. The highly qualified candidates may undergo an interview and reference checks.
All answers to the Highly Qualifying Criteria must be demonstrated in your resume to get credit.
Education
Candidates using education to meet qualification requirements must include transcripts with their application package. Failure to do so may result in an ineligible rating. Only education from accredited and pre-accredited institutions will be accepted. Foreign education must be evaluated for equivalency in the United States. For more information, please click here.
Additional information
  • A manual application may be obtained by contacting the servicing NAF Human Resources Office listed on this announcement. If you are applying manually, all required documentation must be received no later than 4:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, on the closing date of the announcement. Additional selections may be made from this vacancy announcement for up to 90 days after the closing date.
  • Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized based upon eligibility and a determination that a PCS move is not in the Government interest.
  • Additional information on how to complete the online application process and submit your online application may be found on the USA Staffing Applicant Resource Center.
  • The Duty Station for this position is located in Alexandria, Virginia. You will be expected to physically reside within commuting distance of Alexandria, Virginia. Situational telework can be provided for weather-related emergencies, office closures, and other situations where telework serves a compelling Agency need.
  • Important Information Regarding Access to Certain Federal Facilities: Access to certain federal facilities may require a REAL ID-compliant driver's license/ID (marked with a star) or an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) from WA, MI, MN, NY, or VT. See https://www.tsa.gov/real-id for details.
  • It is the applicant's responsibility to verify that the application package (resume, supporting documents, and responses to the questionnaire) is complete, accurate, and submitted by the closing date. Uploaded documents may take up to one hour to clear the virus scan.

Discover Your Path to Success!
  • Before you apply, take a moment to explore our Applicant Information Kit - your go-to guide for understanding our hiring process and making your application stand out.
  • Inside, you'll find helpful tips, insights, and everything you need to feel confident and prepared.
  • Click here to view the kit or copy and paste this link into your browser: https://publicfileshare.chra.army.mil/Applicants/NAF_Applicant_Information_Kit.pdf

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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Regular full-time and part-time employees are eligible for enrollment in health and life insurance, participation in 401k and retirement plans, and paid personal time off and federal holidays. Some flexible employees may also be eligible to receive health insurance.
For a slideshow presentation regarding these benefits, please click the link below.
Review our benefits

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