Position
City
Salary
Human Resources Specialists in Chicago, IL, can expect a solid income. The average yearly salary stands at about $72,890. This figure reflects the experience and skills of the specialists in the area.
Understanding the salary distribution can help you see the earning potential. Here are the key points: 10% earn less than $47,119 a year, while the top 10% earn more than $96,539 annually. This spread shows that there is room for growth as you gain experience and advance in your career.

Waukegan, IL
Average Salary: $76,118
Waukegan offers a dynamic environment for HR professionals. They can find rewarding roles in diverse industries. Lake County Health Department and Jewel-Osco provide excellent opportunities for growth in this field.
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Tinley Park, IL
Average Salary: $62,208
In Tinley Park, HR specialists can contribute to a variety of sectors. Companies like CDW and Snap-on offer solid platforms for career advancement. The city's business community values skilled HR personnel.
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Aurora, IL
Average Salary: $55,750
Aurora presents a strong market for HR experts. Major employers such as Advocate Health Care and Caterpillar Inc. look for knowledgeable staff. The city's robust economy supports a thriving HR sector.
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Rockford, IL
Average Salary: $53,950
Rockford provides opportunities for HR professionals in a variety of industries. Companies such as OSF HealthCare and Andersen Corporation offer stable careers. The city’s growth attracts businesses seeking HR talent.
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Ardagh Group
Average Salary: $85,300
Ardagh Group is a global leader in metal packaging, serving a wide range of industries. They offer Human Resources Specialist roles with a focus on employee relations, talent management, and HR policies. This company operates globally, but their Chicago location is a key hub for their U.S. operations.
COOK COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Average Salary: $75,390
The COOK COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE is dedicated to public safety and law enforcement in Chicago. They provide Human Resources Specialist positions that involve recruitment, training, and employee benefits management. This role is crucial for maintaining a skilled workforce for the sheriff’s office. They operate out of several locations in Cook County, Illinois.
WILSON SPORTING GOODS
Average Salary: $58,000
Wilson Sporting Goods is a renowned manufacturer of sports equipment and apparel. They seek Human Resources Specialists to manage recruitment, employee engagement, and performance management. The company's Chicago office is a part of their broader operations that serve sports teams and enthusiasts across the U.S.

Policy Officer
Average Salary: $200,000
This role ensures company policies align with regulations and support employees. Work with departments to implement and manage policies. Companies like the City of Chicago value such expertise.
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Compliance Officer
Average Salary: $128,980
This position checks that the company follows laws and industry standards. It involves training staff and conducting audits. Companies such as Boeing and IBM often need such roles in the city.
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Payroll Manager
Average Salary: $119,776
This role manages employee pay, taxes, and benefits. It involves working with software to ensure accuracy. Corporations like McDonald's and United Airlines hire for these positions.
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Organizational Development Specialist
Average Salary: $105,105
This specialist works on improving company culture and employee skills. They design training programs and evaluate employee performance. Companies like Google and Accenture seek such experts.
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Payroll Specialist
Average Salary: $97,116
The role handles payroll processing and ensures timely payments. It requires attention to detail and software proficiency. Businesses like UPS and Target often have these positions.
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Employee Relations Specialist
Average Salary: $92,588
This role helps resolve conflicts and fosters a positive work environment. It involves mediation and communication skills. Companies like Deloitte and PwC look for such professionals.
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Retention Specialist
Average Salary: $89,306
This position focuses on keeping employees happy and reducing turnover. It involves surveys and implementing improvement plans. Firms like Salesforce and Airbnb need such talent.
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Human Resource Director
Average Salary: $88,188
This role oversees all HR functions. It involves strategic planning and policy development. Companies like Walgreens and AbbVie hire for this senior position.
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Personnel Arbitrator
Average Salary: $83,030
This position settles disputes between employees and management. It requires a deep understanding of labor laws. Organizations like the City of Chicago often hire for this role.
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Recruiter
Average Salary: $79,286
This role finds and attracts talent for the company. It involves screening resumes and conducting interviews. Companies like Facebook and Amazon have many openings for this job.
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