Hiring Cost Calculator

Calculate the total recruitment and talent acquisition cost to fill open positions: job boards, recruiter agency fees, HR interview hours, background checks, and onboarding.

Recruitment & Talent Acquisition Cost Inputs

Cost per Hire

$18,650

20.7% of 1st-yr salary

Agency Recruiter Fee

$13,500

15% placement fee

Internal Interview Cost

$1,950

30 hrs @ $65/hr

Total Hiring Spend

$18,650

All candidates & positions

    Step-by-Step Worked Example

    Scenario:

    Calculation Steps:

      Result:

      How to Use This Calculator

      1. 1Enter the target annual salary of the role being hired.
      2. 2Specify the number of positions you plan to fill.
      3. 3Enter job board ad spend and agency recruiter percentage fee.
      4. 4Input total internal interview hours and average hourly wage of the interview team.
      5. 5Include background check screening fees, onboarding training costs, and signing bonuses.
      6. 6Review your total hiring investment and cost-per-hire metric.

      Assumptions & Limitations

      • Estimates are based on standard national averages and current prevailing construction materials and contractor rates.
      • Actual trade bids may fluctuate according to local building code requirements, permit fees, and site topography.
      • Always obtain multiple written bids from licensed, bonded, and insured contractors before commencing work.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      What is the national average cost per hire in the US?

      The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) estimates the average cost per hire across all industries is roughly \$4,700, while specialized technical, sales, and executive roles often exceed \$15,000 to \$30,000.

      What is a typical external recruiter fee percentage?

      Contingency recruitment agencies typically charge between 15% and 25% of the hired candidate’s first-year base salary upon successful placement.

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