Many people still believe that you can only get a good job if you have a university degree. But that's not true. In 2025, there will be thousands of openings for those with only a high school education - and the best part: in various areas, with a fixed salary, a formal contract and even benefits.

If you're looking for a job, want to change area or get back into the market, know that companies all over Brazil are hiring people with a high school education. And in this post, you'll find out where these vacancies are, which sectors are hiring the most and how to increase your chances of getting the job you've been waiting for.

High school: the gateway to the market

Having completed secondary school is the first step towards many opportunities. This level of education is the most requested in selection processes for large retail chains, services, logistics, customer service, security, among others.

Of course, some vacancies require experience, but many are also open to beginners, with training includedThis makes it easier for those who don't yet have a strong CV to enter.

More than a degree, recruiters want to see attitude, a willingness to learn, good communication and commitment. If you have that, you're already a few steps ahead.

Areas that most hire high school graduates

Let's get straight to the point. If you've completed high school, see what areas are open to you. a flood of vacancies in 2025:

1# Retail and commerce
It is one of the sectors that employs the most people. Chains such as Americanas, Magazine Luiza, Carrefour, Assaí Atacadista, Riachuelo and Renner hire salespeople, cashiers, stockists, attendants and sales clerks.

2# Call Center / Telemarketing
Ideal for those who have good communication skills and enjoy working with people. Many companies offer face-to-face positions as well as home office positions, with paid training. No experience required.

3# Logistics and transport
With the increase in online sales, companies such as Mercado Libre, Amazon, DHL, Correios and carriers are hiring goods sorters, logistics assistants, drivers and general helpers.

4# Security and concierge
Surveillance companies and condominiums are looking for doormen, access controllers, security guards and security assistants. Some vacancies require a specific course, but many companies train their employees.

5# Administration and reception
Offices and clinics are hiring receptionists, administrative assistants, clerks and typists. It's important to have basic computer skills and a good presentation.

6# Industry and production
Food, shoe, electronics and clothing factories are always opening vacancies for machine operators, production assistants and quality inspectors.

7# Supermarkets and wholesalers
Chains such as Atacadão, Oba Hortifruti, Pão de Açúcar, Supermercados BH and others are hiring for operational roles such as repositories, clerks, kitchen assistants and packers.

8# Franchises and food
McDonald's, Habib's, Burger King, Subway and many other restaurant chains have constant vacancies for waiters, cooks and cleaners. A great way to get your first job.

Positions with the best chances of growth

In addition to finding a job, the ideal is start in a position with the possibility of growth within the company. And this is more common than it seems. Here are some positions that usually have a career plan:

  • Sales clerk → Supervisor → Manager
  • Administrative assistant → Assistant → Analyst
  • Repositor → Stockist → Sector leader
  • Production operator → Technician → Line coordinator
  • Logistics assistant → Conference clerk → Operations supervisor

Companies value those who grow with them. That's why, even if the starting salary is modest, it's possible to move up in a short space of time with dedication and good results.

Where are they hiring now?

See some real examples of companies that are hiring high school graduates in 2025:

  • Assaí Wholesaler: vacancies in all regions of Brazil
  • Ambev: production and logistics assistants
  • Post office: a new public examination for middle management is planned
  • McDonald's: more than 5,000 vacancies this year
  • Town halls: several calls for tenders requiring only a high school education
  • Free Market: hires for distribution centers in São Paulo, Minas Gerais and Rio Grande do Sul
  • GOL Airlines: airport agents and customer service
  • Call center companies (Almaviva, Atento, Teleperformance): constant vacancies with or without experience

You can check these vacancies on sites such as:

What to put on your CV?

Even with little experience, it is possible to create an attractive CV. Here's what not to miss:

  • Up-to-date data (phone, e-mail, city)
  • Level of education (Completed high school - with date of completion)
  • Previous experience, even if informal (babysitter, helper, self-employed salesperson)
  • Extra courses (IT, customer service, basic English - if any)
  • Availability for shifts, weekends, travel (if applicable)
  • A short summary at the beginning, with 3 or 4 lines about your objectives

Avoid over-stuffing. Focus on clarity, organization and truthful information.

Tips for getting the job

It's not enough just to send in your CV. A few actions will greatly increase your chances:

  • Fill in everything carefully on the selection sites
  • Record presentation videos with good posture, if the company asks for it
  • Wear simple, neutral clothes to the interview, even online
  • Show willingness to learn, responsibility and punctuality
  • If you're not called, keep applying. Insistence makes a difference

Working and studying at the same time? Yes!

Many vacancies with secondary education allow reconciling work and study. Some companies have flexible working hours, 6-hour shifts and even education incentive programs. This makes it much easier for those who are studying for a degree, technical course or even higher education at night.

It's also worth remembering that many public tenders only require secondary education, with salaries of over R$3,000, such as in courts, the INSS, the police and state-owned companies.

See also: Career at McDonalds: What are the opportunities?

May 9th, 2025