HR Career Opportunities with a CIPD Level 3 Certification

For those who are passionate about the people profession, whether that be human resources or learning and development, you’ve most likely heard of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the leading professional body for the people sector.

As the 10^th most requested certification amongst all job posts, CIPD qualifications come in the form of either a certificate or a diploma, depending on whether you choose to study at Levels 3, 5 or 7. Recognised globally and as a standard of excellence, CIPD and their qualifications have been advocating for improved work and working lives since 1913.

However, while it’s clear to see why 20,000 are currently studying CIPD qualifications around the world, it’s also important to think about your life post-qualification and where a CIPD qualification could take you.

In this blog, we discuss your career opportunities with a CIPD Level 3 Certificate.

CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice

The CIPD Level 3 Certificate has been developed specifically for those just starting out in the HR or L&D industry. With little to no professional experience required to study this certificate, it’s a popular choice amongst career switchers who are keen to move into people practice, school leavers or those who are looking for their first role in the HR or L&D space.

Once you have gained your CIPD Level 3 Certificate, your next steps will likely include:

• Entering the world of work in an entry-level HR role
• To continue to study and enrol on the CIPD Level 5 Diploma

Here are some of the most common HR career opportunities once you complete the CIPD Level 3 qualification:

HR Assistant

An HR assistant role is perfect for someone who not only enjoys variety but is interested in all elements that make up a job in human resources.

With the opportunity to work alongside your department managers, as well as recruitment, payroll and in some cases, learning and development, the role of a HR assistant allows for you to interact with a variety of professionals.

An HR assistant’s responsibilities often include but are not limited to:

• Assisting with job ad writing and proofing
• The process of hiring including, sifting and organising CVs and structuring interviews
• Supporting with general department administration and queries
• Entering, managing and correcting employee data
• Assist with payroll preparation
• Coordinate any HR projects, meetings, events

In terms of salary, typically an HR assistant's wage will vary depending on location and the size of the business. However, according to the Hays Salary Recruiting & Trends Guide 2024 for SMEs, HR assistants will make, on average:

• £26,000 in Scotland
• £29,000 in London
• £22,000 in Northern Ireland
• £24,000 in Wales

HR Coordinator

An HR coordinator is a role fit for the naturally organised and for those who enjoy implementing processes, filing and general department housekeeping.

HR coordinators will often be the first points of contact when addressing the department as a whole. They will deal with internal and external employee issues, concerns and complaints. HR coordinators ensure interdepartmental communication and operations remain of a quality standard..

An HR coordinator’s responsibilities include:

• Creating and streamlining HR processes and procedures
• Assist with and oversee employee onboarding and training
• Plan and coordinate departmental and companywide meetings and events
• Conduct regular audits of employee data and records, ensuring files are up to date and secure
• Assist with recruitment efforts (e.g. scheduling of interviews and candidate communication)

Like the role of an HR assistant, an HR coordinator’s salary will vary depending on location and the size of the company in which they work for. Referencing the Hays Salary Recruiting and Trends Guide 2024, HR coordinators can earn, on average:

• £28,000 in Scotland
• £33,000 in London
• £24,000 in Northern Ireland
• £25,000 in Wales

L&D Administrator

For those passionate about continuous professional development and improvement, the role of a learning & development administrator is both strategic and personable.

L&D administrators are on hand to ensure employees are correctly onboarded, receive relevant training and that the training is presented in a way that considers different learning methods.

L&D administrator responsibilities include:

• Producing where necessary and updating training and onboarding materials
• Ensure learning material is relevant, maintained and accessible
• Working closely with department managers to identify and understand where learning and skills gaps occur
• Support and assist the L&D team will the creation and implementation of company training
• Good knowledge, use and implantation of online learning platforms
• Assisting with the administration and coordination of L&D department

Glassdoor states that L&D administrators will make roughly:

• £21,500 in Scotland
• £23,400 in London

Indeed’s Salary Guide confirms that L&D Administrators can make:

• £23,500 in Northern Ireland
• £23,400 in Wales

Training Assistant

Working alongside a Learning and Development Manager or a Training Delivery Manager, Training Assistants will assist with the creation, delivery and implementation of workplace training. They are usually the first point of contact for any queries about training material, content or any general issues that may occur.

A training assistant’s job responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Researching, developing and learning new ways to enhance unique L&D journeys
• Maintaining general upkeep of the L&D department through administration and organisational tasks
• Support seniors with the creation and development of learning materials
• Create and implement training and course schedules
• Assist with the organisation and facilitation of structured training events

A Training Assistant’s salary will often depend on their responsibilities, location and the size of the company. However, Indeed’s Salary Guide suggests as a ballpark figure they can make:

• £20,100 in Scotland
• £28,000 in London
• £22,400 in Northern Ireland
• £24,900 in Wales

Is a CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate worth it?

In short, yes! However, this does depend entirely on your own personal circumstances. So, we recommend thinking about the following first:

• The current stage of your career
• Your workplace experience
• Your previous education history
• Your career goals and aspirations

If you’re currently employed in a role out with the people industry, passionate about switching careers and have no HR or L&D experience, then the CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate could be the ideal choice for you.

On the flip side, if you’re already working in the HR or L&D field and have relevant industry experience, you may qualify for one of the more advanced CIPD qualifications, such as the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma.

With a variety of job opportunities available across the globe for those interested in HR, L&D and training, CIPD Level 3 Certificates are a great way to advance your career.

Enhance your career with a 100% online CIPD Level 3 qualification that you can study at your own pace. Download your free CIPD course guide today.