What Does An HRMS Analyst Do? Role, Skills & Salary
Are you an analytical person with a passion for IT and HR? Do you think your organization could benefit from such a person to improve processes and become more data-driven?
If the answer to either of these questions is “yes”, then you’ll be interested to know more about the role of an HRMS analyst. In this article, we'll dig into the requirements and daily activities of the role and examine :
What is an HRMS Analyst?
An HRMS analyst is an IT and data expert in the HR field. The role is part IT manager, part HR consultant and part data analyst. Broadly speaking, an HRMS analyst collects, organizes, and analyzes data to make recommendations related to areas such as recruitment, retention, and legal compliance.
Also referred to as an HRIS analyst, another key aspect of the job is to implement and maintain human resource management systems (otherwise known as human resource information systems or HR databases) that underpin the HR department and collect and analyze data.
The role of the HRMS analyst varies between organizations, but will likely cover all or some of the following roles:
- Department consultation - consult with HR managers, finance, and IT departments to help them determine areas that need improvement.
- Technology maven - HRMS analysts keep track of technological changes and trends in human resource management and advise the organization.
- Performing routine audits like payroll administration and service terminations.
- Metrics and Reporting - organizing HR metrics such as employee performance data and attendance.
- Updating software - integrating new software, running diagnostic tests, and optimizing HRMS processes.
- Process implementation - creating and implementing new processes for the smooth running of HR functions.
- IT support - upgrading applications, offering technical support, and training other employees on new HR developments.
- System evaluations - evaluating HR systems and checking on any security threats.
- Security - ensuring end-user access, security, and integrity of data across all HR platforms.
- Administration - acting as systems administrators for applications and HR systems.
Skill Requirements for an HRMS Analyst
HRMS analysts possess a blend of hard and soft skills. They must be technically proficient—think the kind of people you go to fix your laptop or ask advice about the latest cell phone—and also have a solid understanding of HR processes.
A solid understanding of strategic human resource management enables HRMS analysts to integrate data-driven solutions that support long-term workforce strategies.
Further, they must be good communicators and quick learners with the ability to work across the different business areas and recognize opportunities when they see them.
Common requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, HR Management, Business administration, or other related disciplines
- Experience level of 3-5 years working in a related industry
- Understanding of HR functions and technology
- Strong communication and presentation skills
- Drive to keep up with technological evolutions and trends
- Advanced skills of MS Office, including Word and advanced Excel (Vlookup, PIVOT, Macro)
- Database security and management and also operating SQL queries
- Considerable experience in HR performance metrics and HRMS systems analysis
- Exceptional ability to collect and interpret data and improve HRMS processes
- Ability to provide technical support and train others.
Let's break down some of the key elements of their work a bit further.
Data management and validation
HRMS Analysts play a critical role in maintaining data accuracy and reliability. They lead data validation activities, ensuring that all information is accurate, consistent, and compliant with organizational standards.
Responsibilities include documenting system processes and executing data conversions, which are crucial for system upgrades or transitions. By ensuring data integrity, analysts enable informed decision-making and reduce the risk of errors impacting HR operations.
Collaboration with stakeholders
Effective collaboration with stakeholders is a cornerstone of the HRMS Analyst role. These professionals work closely with HR leaders, IT teams, and other departments to define business requirements for system improvements.
They also develop custom reports to address specific organizational needs and facilitate system training to ensure all users are well-equipped. Strong communication and collaboration skills ensure alignment between business goals and system capabilities.
Business process management
HRMS analysts contribute significantly to enhancing business processes. They design and implement workflows that streamline user experiences while minimizing errors.
Their work often includes establishing auditing controls and change management strategies to ensure seamless adoption of new systems or processes. By improving efficiency and accuracy, analysts enhance the overall productivity of HR operations.
Payroll management
Managing payroll processes is a key responsibility for HRMS Analysts. They simulate payroll runs to identify and correct errors before final processing, ensuring accuracy and compliance with labor laws.
Additionally, they generate detailed reports to provide insights into payroll performance, helping organizations maintain financial integrity and avoid regulatory penalties.
User access and permissions
HRMS Analysts are responsible for defining and maintaining secure access to HR systems. They manage roles and permissions to ensure that users have appropriate access levels based on their job functions.
By monitoring and updating these permissions, analysts protect sensitive information and ensure compliance with security protocols.
Workday system support
Providing support for Workday systems is a specialized area for many HRMS Analysts. They focus on system administration, applying best practices to configure and optimize system settings.
Their expertise ensures efficient operations, allowing organizations to leverage Workday’s capabilities fully. Analysts also provide ongoing support to address user concerns and adapt systems to changing business needs. You'll need a Workday certification to land these specialized roles.
Managing Additional Payments
HRMS Analysts oversee the accurate processing of additional payments, such as bonuses and allowances, as well as deductions. They ensure these transactions are correctly recorded and compliant with organizational policies.
Their attention to detail helps maintain accurate payroll records and reduces the likelihood of disputes or errors.
Handling Overpayments
When overpayments occur, HRMS Analysts are tasked with identifying and resolving these discrepancies. They investigate the root cause, communicate with impacted employees, and develop repayment plans if necessary.
By addressing overpayments promptly and systematically, analysts help safeguard organizational finances and maintain employee trust.
HR Analyst Career Path
HRMS Analysts have a clear path for career progression, often advancing to senior analyst roles or transitioning into HR management positions.
Their expertise in data-driven decision-making and system optimization makes them valuable candidates for leadership roles.
As organizations increasingly rely on technology for HR functions, analysts who master these systems are well-positioned for long-term career growth.
HRMS Analyst Salary
HRMS is a highly specialized job and the salaries reflect that. As always, salary will vary depending on location.
According to Indeed, a junior HRMS analyst in New York has an average salary $90,242, while a senior HRMS analyst’s average salary is $107,858.
In Oregon, salaries for the same roles for juniors is $88,097 and $105,604 and for senior HRMS analysts.
How To Become an HRMS Analyst
There’s no one set route to becoming an HRMS Analyst but a bachelor’s degree in computer/data science, IT, HRM, or business administration is useful for those starting out.
Often experienced HR professionals will transition into the HRMS analyst role. Those who show a natural aptitude for systems thinking, IT, data, and strategy will be drawn to the challenge and compelled to upskill where required.
HRMS Analyst Certification
Acquiring an HRMS certification is an option for those HR professionals who want to transition into the analyst role.
The Human Resource Information Professional certification (HRIP), offered by the International Association of Human Resource Management (IHRIM), covers all aspects of HRMS leading up to an exam and requires you to remain current by recertification.
Summary
As HR becomes more data-driven, the skills of the HRMS analyst will become increasingly sought after. An HRMS analyst plays a crucial role in implementing and maintaining the systems that underpin the HR department. To better understand the types of systems they work with, explore our comprehensive guide on leading HR software solutions.
Do you have questions or insights you want to share? Comment below and let’s get talking.
Related Read: 10 Best HRMS For Small Business
