Why More Women in HR Are Choosing HR Contract Jobs

More women in HR are choosing HR contract jobs for flexibility, better pay and stronger career opportunities. In the past few years, I’ve had more and more conversations with HR candidates, especially women about flexibility, freedom and feeling stuck on the traditional career path. What’s emerging is an exciting shift: more women in HR are confidently stepping into HR contract roles, and they’re not looking back.

At HR Search, we work with some of Ireland’s top employers and most talented HR professionals. One thing is clear: HR contract jobs are no longer the backup plan. They’re a smart, strategic career move.

Whether you’re a HR Executive, HR Business Partner or HRIS specialist, HR contract roles can offer:

• Short-term impact with long-term career growth
• Daily rates that often beat permanent salaries
• The freedom to choose remote work, flexible hours or part-time contracts
• The chance to drive change, support transformation and contribute at a strategic level

If you’ve ever wanted to step away from the “always on” culture or re-enter the workforce after a career break, then HR  contract jobs and fixed-term contracts offer a tailored and sustainable way to re-engage.

The data behind the shift

Recent research from Trinity College’s Ireland’s Project Economy 2025 highlights a clear rise in women contracting across many sectors with HR and professional services leading the way.

Here’s what the numbers tell us:

• Women now make up 27% of Ireland’s professional contractor workforce
• The average contract lasts 14 months
• 84% of female contractors report high job satisfaction
• Women earn an average of €565 per day outpacing male counterparts on daily rate
• Annual earnings are still lower, but this largely reflects a choice to work fewer days, showing how contracting supports life-stage flexibility

Also worth noting:

• 80% of roles are filled within six weeks, and many contractors line up their next move before their current role ends
• More women are entering ICT, pharma and HR contract roles than ever before

In a field like HR where empathy, adaptability and leadership are essential women are making a real impact through short-term, high-impact assignments.

Thinking about HR Contracting? Here’s what to know

If you’re weighing up a move into HR contract work, here’s what we’re seeing:

• HR contract jobs are in high demand, especially during periods of change (restructuring, M&A, DEI projects, HRIS rollouts)
• Companies are increasingly turning to HR temp agencies for fast, specialist support
• The appetite for “plug-in” HR expertise is growing, especially when there’s no time for a lengthy hiring process

Why it works for Employers

It’s not just professionals who benefit. Companies are seeing the upside too. By working with a contract recruitment agency, employers can:

• Fill urgent gaps quickly with experienced HR professionals
• Outsource HR during busy growth phases or transitions
• Access specialist HR talent without long-term commitments
• Hire for HR manager contracts or niche roles like HRIS support with ease

In short, contract hiring is becoming a smart and flexible business solution, especially during change, transformation or uncertainty.

Supporting Women in the Contracting Market

As someone who works closely with women in HR, I know that making the leap into contracting can feel like a big step. But it can also be a hugely empowering one. Whether you’re after variety, higher pay, more flexibility for family life or a bit of everything, contracting can be the key to building the career (and life) that works for you.

Considering a move into HR Contracting?

If you’re thinking about HR contract recruitment, now’s a great time to explore it. Whether it’s HR temp jobs, remote roles or fixed-term assignments, the opportunities are there – and growing. And if you’re a business looking to fill a HR contract job or looking to bring in expert support fast, we’re here to help.

As one of Ireland’s most trusted HR recruitment agencies, we take pride in connecting experienced professionals with the right HR contract positions quickly, professionally and with care. Get in touch with us here for info!