Candidate Sourcer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of talent acquisition, the role of Candidate Sourcers has become increasingly significant.

As the corporate landscape expands and the demand for skilled professionals grows, the search for the perfect candidates capable of driving an organization’s success becomes even more essential.

But what is actually required from a Candidate Sourcer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the qualities of your ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the dynamics of talent sourcing,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Candidate Sourcer job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Candidate Sourcer Duties and Responsibilities

Candidate Sourcers are specialized human resources professionals that proactively identify, attract and engage with potential candidates for job openings.

They often use a variety of strategies to build a pipeline of potential candidates for recruiters to assess.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Work closely with recruiters and hiring managers to understand job requirements and create a sourcing strategy
• Research and identify potential candidates using various sourcing channels such as job boards, social media, networking events, and databases
• Engage and screen potential candidates to assess their availability, interest, and qualifications
• Develop and maintain a network of contacts to help identify and source qualified candidates
• Initiate contact with potential candidates to promote the company’s employer brand and job opportunities
• Provide detailed information on the company, our culture, benefits and job opportunities to prospective candidates
• Track and record candidate information in the applicant tracking system
• Stay current with trends and advancements in the job market and the local employment environment
• Support the interview scheduling and candidate communication process
• Attend job fairs and other career events to meet potential candidates

 

Candidate Sourcer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an innovative Candidate Sourcer to assist our recruitment team in identifying top talent for our organization.

The Candidate Sourcer’s responsibilities will include networking online and offline with potential candidates, maintaining a database of prospective candidates, and identifying potential recruitment opportunities.

Our ideal candidate has a keen eye for detail, a knack for engaging potential candidates, and the ability to work well within a team-oriented environment.

The role of a Candidate Sourcer is to support the growth of our company by building a pipeline of qualified candidates for future job opportunities.

 

Responsibilities

• Work closely with recruiters and hiring managers to understand job requirements and create a candidate sourcing strategy.
• Source potential candidates through online channels (e.g. social platforms, professional networks).
• Identify qualified candidate profiles using various sourcing techniques (e.g. Boolean search).
• Develop talent pipelines for future hiring needs.
• Maintain candidate databases and ensure all communications are logged and information is accurate.
• Communicate with past applicants regarding new job opportunities.
• Initiate contact with potential candidates to gauge interest and obtain contact information.
• Attend job fairs and networking events to engage potential candidates.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Candidate Sourcer or similar role in recruitment
• Hands-on experience with sourcing techniques (e.g. recruiting on social platforms, crafting Boolean search strings)
• Familiarity with HR databases, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATSs), and Candidate Management Systems (CMSs)
• Solid verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to positively present our company and open roles to potential candidates
• Effective time-management abilities
• BSc in Human Resources Management or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Candidate Sourcer
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Occasional travel may be required for job fairs or networking events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Recruitment Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Candidate Sourcer Do?

Candidate Sourcers are specialized human resource professionals who focus on finding top talent to fill job vacancies in a company.

Their primary role is to identify potential candidates for specific job openings, using a variety of search methods which include online databases, social media sites, networking events, or job fairs.

They also review resumes to check if an applicant’s qualifications and experiences match the requirements of the job opening.

Candidate Sourcers often reach out to potential candidates to discuss the job opportunity and gauge their interest in the role.

They may also conduct initial screening interviews to assess the candidates’ suitability for the role before referring them to the hiring manager.

Furthermore, Candidate Sourcers are involved in building and maintaining a pool of qualified candidates for future job openings.

They may also assist in building the company’s employer brand to attract top talent.

They work closely with recruiters, hiring managers and other human resources professionals to ensure the hiring process is efficient and effective.

 

Candidate Sourcer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient candidate sourcer should have the skills and qualifications that match your job description, such as:

• Proficient in using various recruitment tools and platforms to source potential candidates.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage and build relationships with potential candidates.
• Excellent research skills to identify potential candidates and understand their skills and experience.
• Attention to detail to accurately assess and evaluate candidate information and qualifications.
• Proficient in social media, particularly in using LinkedIn for professional networking and candidate sourcing.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple candidates and job openings simultaneously.
• Experience in Human Resources or related field, demonstrating an understanding of the hiring process and employment regulations.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team to meet recruitment goals.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and overcome challenges in the sourcing process.

 

Candidate Sourcer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Candidate Sourcers typically have 1 to 2 years of experience in human resources, recruitment, or a related field.

They may have gained this experience through internships, part-time roles, or full-time positions in related areas like HR administration or recruiting coordination.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience often have a solid understanding of full-cycle recruiting and talent acquisition strategies, along with the ability to utilize various sourcing techniques.

They may have also gained experience in using recruitment software and applicant tracking systems.

Those with over 3 years of experience in candidate sourcing are often adept at creating and implementing sourcing strategies for various roles.

They typically have advanced skills in screening resumes, conducting preliminary interviews, and handling communications with potential candidates.

At this stage, they may also have experience training or leading a small team of sourcers or recruitment coordinators.

Candidate Sourcers with more than 5 years of experience are typically considered senior-level.

These professionals often have strong leadership skills, as well as a proven track record of sourcing and placing candidates in a variety of roles.

They may also have experience in developing and implementing sourcing policies and procedures at a departmental or organizational level.

 

Candidate Sourcer Education and Training Requirements

Candidate Sourcers typically have a bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, psychology, or a related field.

They must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, as they often serve as the first point of contact between a company and potential candidates.

A background in human resources, sales, or marketing can be particularly beneficial, as these fields offer a strong foundation in the art of persuasion and negotiation.

For certain industries, a deeper understanding of the specific field may be required.

This could involve obtaining additional education or training in fields like technology, healthcare, or finance, depending on the industry in which the Candidate Sourcer is working.

While not always required, professional certifications such as Certified Personnel Consultant (CPC) or Professional in Human Resources (PHR) can enhance a Candidate Sourcer’s skills and credibility.

Continual learning is essential in this role due to the ever-changing nature of recruitment practices and technologies.

Many professionals in this role participate in workshops, seminars, or additional training to stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in sourcing and recruitment.

 

Candidate Sourcer Salary Expectations

A Candidate Sourcer typically earns an average salary of $57,840 (USD) per year.

However, this salary may vary based on factors such as experience, skills, the size of the employing company, and the location of employment.

 

Candidate Sourcer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a candidate sourcer need?

A candidate sourcer should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships with potential candidates.

They should be skilled in using social media and job boards to identify potential candidates.

Research skills are also essential as they often have to source passive candidates.

They should be capable of assessing a candidate’s fit for a role based on their skills, experience, and cultural fit.

 

Do candidate sourcers need a degree?

While there isn’t a specific degree requirement for candidate sourcers, most employers prefer a bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, or a related field.

Additionally, experience in recruitment or human resources can be beneficial.

Some roles may also require knowledge of specific industries, so relevant experience can be advantageous.

 

What should you look for in a candidate sourcer’s resume?

Look for a background in human resources or recruiting, and experience with candidate sourcing tools and strategies.

Any familiarity with your industry is a plus.

Also look for strong communication skills, a knack for building relationships, and an understanding of job requirements and candidate evaluation.

Certification in human resources or recruiting can be a bonus.

 

What qualities make a good candidate sourcer?

Good candidate sourcers are proactive, persistent, and patient.

They are good at building relationships and have a keen eye for spotting potential talent.

Excellent communication skills are essential, as well as the ability to assess a candidate’s potential fit for a role.

They should also be organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable working with recruitment software and social media platforms.

 

Is it difficult to hire candidate sourcers?

Hiring candidate sourcers can be challenging due to the specific set of skills and experience required for the role.

It is essential to find someone who is not only good at identifying potential candidates but also at building relationships with them.

Offering competitive salaries and benefits, clear career progression, and a positive work environment can help attract top candidate sourcers.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the real essence of being a candidate sourcer.

And guess what?

It’s not only about sourcing potential candidates.

It’s about shaping the future of organizations, one candidate at a time.

With our comprehensive candidate sourcer job description template and real-world examples, you’re equipped to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your secret weapon for creating precise job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every sourced candidate is a key component of the organization’s success.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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