Okay, let’s tackle this. So Richard has 20+ years of experience in HR, which is a broad field. Benefits administration is a specialized area, but it’s still part of HR. The location is Astoria, OR, which is a smaller market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly rate for HR specialists in the Pacific Northwest is around $25-$35. However, considering Richard’s experience and skills, I’d estimate his rate to be on the higher end of that range. Maybe around $75 per hour, considering he’s not in a large city like Seattle or Portland, but still has a strong background in benefits administration and strategic planning.