Freelance Recruiter Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the competitive world of talent acquisition, the demand for skilled freelance recruiters is always on the rise.

As industries evolve and expand, the call for dedicated professionals who can locate, engage, and secure top-tier talent amplifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a freelance recruiter?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager picturing the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the mechanics of freelance recruitment,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable freelance recruiter job description template, tailored for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Freelance Recruiter Duties and Responsibilities

Freelance Recruiters work independently to find, attract and hire the best talent for contract positions.

They employ a variety of methods to screen potential candidates, including interviews and background checks.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing recruiting plans and strategies designed to fulfill company staffing needs
• Searching for job candidates using various sources such as databases, internet recruiting resources, networking, job fairs, media advertisements, and employee referrals
• Screening potential candidates through interviews, background checks, skill assessments, and psychological tests
• Reviewing resumes and job applications to identify suitable candidates
• Presenting job opportunities to potential candidates and providing necessary information regarding job descriptions, company culture, and benefits
• Negotiating salary and job offer details with potential candidates
• Managing paperwork related to the hiring process, including contracts, tax forms, and background check results
• Keeping track of all applications, resumes, and correspondence for future reference
• Establishing and maintaining relationships with hiring managers to stay abreast of current and future hiring and business needs
• Constantly updating their knowledge of recruiting procedures, employment laws, and labor legislation to ensure compliance

 

Freelance Recruiter Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for an experienced Freelance Recruiter to join our team.

As a Freelance Recruiter, your responsibilities will include identifying, interviewing, and evaluating candidates for various job openings.

Freelance Recruiter responsibilities include sourcing candidates through various channels, planning interview and selection procedures, and hosting or participating in career events.

To be successful in this role, you should have an HR academic background along with work experience in screening, interviewing and assessing candidates.

Ultimately, you will help our company find and hire the most qualified people for our open roles.

 

Responsibilities

• Source candidates using databases, social media, job boards, etc.
• Review and analyze resumes
• Screen potential candidates via phone, email, or in-person interviews
• Prepare and distribute assignments and numerical, language, and logical reasoning tests
• Advertise job openings on careers pages, job boards, and social networks
• Participate in job fairs and career events
• Provide a shortlist of qualified candidates to hiring managers
• Coordinate interviews and contact applicants, offering job or regret letters
• Collaborate with managers to identify future hiring needs

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Recruiter (either an in-house recruiter or a staffing agency recruiter)
• Solid ability to conduct different types of interviews (structured, competency-based, stress, etc.)
• Hands-on experience with various selection processes (phone interviewing, reference checks, etc.)
• Ability to organize skills assessment centers (in tray activities, work samples, psychometric and IQ/EQ tests, etc.)
• Familiarity with HR databases, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and Candidate Management Systems (CMS)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong decision-making skills
• BSc/BA in Human Resources Management, Organizational Psychology or relevant field

 

Benefits

• Flexible working hours
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Freelance Recruiter
• Work Environment: This is a remote position with flexible hours, but may require availability for client or team meetings during business hours.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Human Resources Manager or Recruitment Manager.
• Pay: Pay is commission-based and determined by the number and level of positions successfully filled.
• Location: Remote
• Employment Type: Contract
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our freelance team. 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 Freelance Recruiter Do?

Freelance Recruiters work independently, typically on a contract basis, to find and fill open positions for a variety of businesses across industries.

They are often responsible for the whole recruiting process, which starts with understanding the job requirements from the client.

They source potential candidates through a variety of methods, including job posting sites, networking, headhunting, and using databases.

Freelance Recruiters review resumes, conduct initial applicant screenings, and often handle the first round of interviews to assess the suitability of the candidates.

Freelance Recruiters also coordinate with hiring managers to gain a deeper understanding of the job specifications and desired qualifications.

They match prospective candidates with job openings, evaluating candidates’ skills, experience, and potential fit with the company culture.

They play a significant role in the negotiation process, discussing terms of employment, benefits and salary with candidates.

After the selection process, Freelance Recruiters also provide feedback to unsuccessful candidates and may even maintain a relationship with candidates for future job opportunities.

As Freelancers, they manage their own business operations, including marketing their services, maintaining client relationships, and managing their accounting and administrative tasks.

 

Freelance Recruiter Qualifications and Skills

A successful Freelance Recruiter should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Excellent communication skills to interact with clients and candidates, being able to clearly articulate job requirements and candidate qualifications.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with both clients and candidates, establishing trust and understanding their needs.
• Proficiency in recruitment strategies and platforms to source and attract qualified candidates.
• Screening abilities to evaluate candidate’s suitability for jobs based on their skills, experience, and potential.
• Negotiation skills to effectively mediate job offers between clients and candidates, ensuring both parties are satisfied.
• Time management and organizational skills to handle multiple clients, job openings, and candidates simultaneously.
• Detailed oriented to ensure accurate record keeping of all recruitment activities, including candidate information, job descriptions, and communication records.
• A solid understanding of employment laws and regulations to ensure compliance throughout the recruitment process.
• Self-motivation and resilience to manage the challenges and unpredictability of freelance work.

 

Freelance Recruiter Experience Requirements

Freelance Recruiters may start with little to no experience, learning the ropes through entry-level positions in human resources or recruiting.

Some may even kickstart their recruiting careers through internships or part-time roles.

Candidates with 1 to 3 years of experience are typically adept at performing essential recruitment functions, such as sourcing candidates, interviewing applicants, and coordinating communication between hiring managers and candidates.

Those with more than 3 years of experience often have a broader network of contacts, an understanding of various industries and roles, and an expertise in negotiation tactics.

They also typically have experience using recruitment software and databases.

Freelancers with over 5 years of experience in recruitment often have a robust track record of successful placements and may have experience in specialty areas of recruiting, such as executive search or tech recruiting.

These professionals may also offer additional services like recruitment strategy consulting or training.

 

Freelance Recruiter Education and Training Requirements

Freelance Recruiters usually have a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Psychology or a related field.

The role requires a solid understanding of the entire recruitment process, from job posting to interviewing and hiring.

Therefore, any coursework or training that provides knowledge in these areas would be beneficial.

Some positions may require Freelance Recruiters to have prior experience in recruitment or human resources.

For instance, they may need to have had experience in conducting interviews, developing job descriptions, and utilizing applicant tracking systems.

Certification in Human Resources such as the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) may be advantageous, although not usually a strict requirement.

Freelance Recruiters must have strong communication and interpersonal skills, and any training or education that helps to develop these abilities can be beneficial.

Keeping up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in recruitment is also important, so ongoing professional development and learning is highly recommended.

Freelance Recruiters often need to be familiar with various industry sectors, so additional courses, certifications or training in these areas could enhance their marketability and success in their role.

 

Freelance Recruiter Salary Expectations

A Freelance Recruiter can expect to earn an average of $51,000 (USD) per year.

This income can vary greatly depending on the number of hours worked, the recruiter’s experience and negotiation skills, and the type of roles they are recruiting for.

 

Freelance Recruiter Job Description FAQs

What skills does a freelance recruiter need?

Freelance recruiters should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively liaise between job candidates and employers.

They must be good at networking to build and maintain connections in the industry.

They should possess strong organizational skills to manage multiple clients and job vacancies simultaneously.

An understanding of recruitment software and human resource practices is also necessary.

 

Do freelance recruiters need a degree?

A degree is not always necessary, but having a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field can be beneficial.

Experience in recruitment or human resources is often valued more than formal education in this field.

Some freelance recruiters might also have certifications from recognized HR institutions.

 

What should you look for in a freelance recruiter’s profile?

When hiring a freelance recruiter, look for a history of successful placements, their specialization fields, and their ability to understand your company’s needs.

Experience in your industry is a plus.

Also, check for any recommendations or testimonials from previous clients to understand their work ethics and effectiveness.

 

What qualities make a good freelance recruiter?

A good freelance recruiter is proactive, resourceful, and has a good eye for identifying talent.

They should be able to build strong relationships with both candidates and employers.

Additionally, they should have a good understanding of the job market and industry trends to attract the right candidates.

 

How do freelance recruiters find candidates?

Freelance recruiters use various methods to find potential candidates.

This includes job boards, social media platforms like LinkedIn, networking events, and referrals.

They might also use recruitment software to search for candidates matching certain criteria.

Some even maintain a personal database of potential candidates.

 

How do freelance recruiters charge for their services?

Freelance recruiters typically charge a percentage of the candidate’s first year’s salary once the candidate they provided is hired.

The rate can vary depending on the industry, the level of the position, and the recruiter’s experience and reputation.

Some freelance recruiters might charge a flat fee for their services.

It’s recommended to discuss payment terms before starting the recruitment process.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into what it truly entails to be a freelance recruiter.

And guess what?

It’s not just about sourcing candidates.

It’s about shaping professional futures, one candidate at a time.

With our handy freelance recruiter job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your subsequent step to crafting precise listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every candidate you recruit is part of a larger career narrative.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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