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Attractive Salaries for Technical Professions Continue to Have Open Positions, Revealing a Growing Shortage of Skilled Labor in Strategic Sectors of the Brazilian Market.
Despite Brazil currently recording one of the lowest unemployment rates in its history, companies from different sectors report great difficulties in filling positions in various mid-level functions, even when salaries are attractive.
Recent data from July 2025, collected from surveys by ManpowerGroup and supported by surveys from the Federation of Industries of the State of São Paulo (Fiesp) and Datafolha, indicate that 81% of Brazilian companies face obstacles in finding professionals with the technical and behavioral skills required by the current market.
The shortage of skilled labor is the result of a combination of factors.
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The accelerated advancement of technology has changed the profile of vacancies, demanding increasingly updated and adaptable professionals.
At the same time, cultural transformations particularly influence young people, who begin to prioritize flexibility, remote work, and alternative hiring formats, reducing interest in formal jobs under the Consolidation of Labor Laws (CLT).
These changes have created a paradoxical scenario: even with available positions and good salaries in essential areas, many jobs remain open.
Human resources specialists indicate that there are mid-level professions with a large supply of opportunities, but which are hindered by a lack of interested or suitably qualified candidates.
Shortage of Skilled Labor in Mid-Level Positions
Among the functions most affected by this phenomenon, nine professions are highlighted as strategic for the functioning of retail, industry, agriculture, the service sector, and civil aviation.
Understand why these areas struggle with the so-called “labor blackout” and what the challenges are for those wishing to enter each of them.
Store Attendant and Its Importance in Retail
In retail commerce, the store attendant plays a fundamental role.
They are not limited to selling products, but are responsible for organizing the environment, displaying merchandise, providing information, and ensuring service that fosters customer loyalty.
Although it often does not require prior experience, the position demands proactivity, good communication skills, and willingness to work flexible hours.
According to the sector, turnover is high and there is difficulty in maintaining complete teams, even with salaries above the category minimum in large cities.
Administrative Assistant and the Need for Administrative Efficiency
Another profession facing a shortage of professionals is that of administrative assistant.
Essential for organizing administrative routines, this worker operates in companies, clinics, offices, and public agencies.
Among their functions are agenda management, public service, document writing, and support for leadership.
With the digitization of processes, the demand for knowledge in management software has increased, making the profile of this technician even more multidisciplinary.
Electrician: Qualification and High Demand
Responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in residences, industries, and businesses, the electrician finds many job opportunities today.
The advancement of technologies and the need to comply with safety standards increase the demand for qualification.
Technical courses and certifications are differentiators for those who want to enter or stand out in the field.
Additionally, the expansion of renewable energy sources also contributes to the growth of the sector.
Cashier: Precision and Agility Stand Out
In the daily retail environment, the cashier is responsible for recording sales, receiving payments, issuing receipts, and performing financial closings.
This position requires agility, attention to detail, and friendliness in service.
According to trade associations, high turnover and the search for new ways of working among young people hinder the maintenance of stable teams, causing vacancies to remain open even in large chains.
Machine Operator and Demand in Industry
In both industry and agribusiness, the machine operator is essential for the safe operation of heavy equipment, tractors, harvesters, and automated systems.
Industrial automation has increased the need for technically skilled professionals.
In agricultural regions, the deficit is even more noticeable, with reports of companies resorting to internal training to try to meet the shortage.
Restocker: Essential Piece for Supply
Responsible for ensuring that the shelves of supermarkets, wholesalers, and shops are always stocked, the restocker faces high demand due to the high flow of products and the need for constant replenishment.
The role demands attention, physical endurance, and organizational skills.
Despite this, turnover in the position causes the search for new employees to be ongoing.
Digital Agriculture Technician: Innovation in the Field
Digital agriculture, an expanding sector, relies on specialized technicians to operate drones, GPS monitoring systems, and agricultural management software.
Combining knowledge of agronomy and technology, these professionals help increase the efficiency of rural production.
However, the low availability of courses and the novelty of the profession create a mismatch between the demand from companies and the number of qualified candidates.
Nursing Technician: Pillar of Health Services
The presence of the nursing technician is indispensable in hospitals, clinics, outpatient facilities, and emergency units.
This professional performs direct assistance procedures, such as administering medications, dressing wounds, monitoring vital signs, and supporting examinations.
In a scenario of an aging population and expansion of health services, there is a lack of professionals with the necessary training and registration to work in the field.
Aircraft Maintenance Technician and the Growth of Aviation
The Brazilian aviation sector, in full recovery after the restrictions imposed by the pandemic, demands aircraft maintenance technicians to ensure the safety and operation of fleets.
The job involves detailed inspections, repairs on mechanical and electrical systems, and ongoing updates on regulations from the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC).
Due to the high specialization required, the number of qualified professionals is still considered insufficient.
Why Mid-Level Positions Remain Open
According to labor market specialists, the difficulty in filling these mid-level positions is due to a combination of factors such as the social devaluation of certain professions, lack of disclosure of salaries and benefits, in addition to a perception that certain positions offer fewer opportunities for growth.
The requirement for specific technical skills and certifications also limits access, even in sectors that show high demand.
The situation raises a fundamental debate: in light of the open opportunities, what would be the best strategy to attract and train professionals for the areas considered strategic for Brazil’s economic and social development?
Would you accept one of these open positions, even knowing the challenges and competitive pay?
I am interested as high skilled technician in the offshore industry I am looking for challenges. Since I recognize the importance’s of secure work process according to detailed work instructions I like to take my chances in aviation. I am willing to complete any related course or work under supervision. As mechanical/technician supervisor I’m looking forward to change my scenery .