Okay, let’s calculate. Heather has a mix of HR skills, but she’s not a senior-level executive or a specialist like a recruiter or a compensation analyst. She’s an SHRM-CP certified professional with a broad range of skills. According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the average salary for an HR generalist in the US is around $62,000 per year. However, this number varies by location. Greenwood, Mississippi is a smaller city, and salaries might be lower. Considering Heather’s skills and certifications, a lower rate is expected. Let’s assume an hourly rate of $45, which is roughly 1/13 of the average annual salary for an HR generalist in the US. This rate is also lower than what a recruiter or a compensation analyst might charge, but it’s consistent with the level of expertise and experience Heather has.