Blue-collar jobs in Brazil are a vital part of the economy. These jobs involve manual labor or skilled trades, and many offer good salaries without requiring a university degree. In 2025, Brazil’s growing industries create many opportunities for blue-collar workers, including foreigners.
This article will explore the highest paying blue-collar jobs in Brazil per month, especially for foreigners. We will also cover jobs that pay well with no experience or degree, and which blue-collar roles can pay over $100,000 yearly.
Why Blue-Collar Jobs Matter in Brazil in 2025
Blue-collar work powers Brazil’s industries like manufacturing, construction, energy, and agriculture. These jobs:
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Provide steady income and benefits.
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Require practical skills and training.
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Often need no university degree.
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Offer high salaries in certain sectors.
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Can be accessible to foreigners with the right work permits.
Understanding which blue-collar jobs pay well helps workers and job seekers choose the best path.
Highest Paying Blue-Collar Jobs in Brazil per Month
In Brazil, blue-collar salaries vary by industry, region, and experience. Here are some of the top-paying blue-collar jobs as of 2025:
1. Electrical Technician
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Average monthly salary: R$5,000 – R$9,000 (USD $1,000 – $1,800)
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Job role: Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems.
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Why it pays well: High demand in manufacturing and infrastructure.
2. Heavy Equipment Operator
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Average monthly salary: R$4,500 – R$8,500 (USD $900 – $1,700)
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Job role: Operate machinery in construction, mining, and agriculture.
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High salary reason: Requires skill and certification.
3. Welder
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Average monthly salary: R$3,500 – R$7,000 (USD $700 – $1,400)
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Job role: Join metal parts for structures, vehicles, and machinery.
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Why it pays: Skilled labor in many industries.
4. Plumber
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Average monthly salary: R$3,000 – R$6,500 (USD $600 – $1,300)
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Job role: Install and fix pipes and water systems.
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Salary factor: Essential for construction and maintenance.
5. Truck Driver
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Average monthly salary: R$3,500 – R$7,500 (USD $700 – $1,500)
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Job role: Transport goods nationwide.
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Why pay is good: Long hours and logistics importance.
6. HVAC Technician (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
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Average monthly salary: R$4,000 – R$8,000 (USD $800 – $1,600)
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Job role: Maintain heating and cooling systems.
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Demand driver: Growing industrial and commercial use.
7. Construction Worker (Skilled)
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Average monthly salary: R$3,000 – R$6,000 (USD $600 – $1,200)
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Job role: Build infrastructure, houses, and commercial buildings.
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Why pays: Skill and physical labor required.
Highest Paying Blue-Collar Jobs in Brazil for Foreigners
Foreign workers often seek blue-collar jobs because many do not require advanced language skills or degrees. Top jobs for foreigners include:
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Truck drivers: Brazil needs drivers for its large transport network.
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Construction workers: Many big projects need skilled labor.
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Welders and electricians: Industries with skill shortages.
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Machine operators: Work in agriculture and mining.
Foreigners usually need a valid work visa. Language skills in Portuguese improve job chances and pay.
Highest Paying Blue-Collar Jobs with No Experience
Some blue-collar jobs pay well even without prior experience or formal education:
1. Warehouse Worker
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Starting monthly salary: R$1,800 – R$3,200 (USD $360 – $640)
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Why good: Entry-level with on-the-job training.
2. Delivery Driver
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Starting monthly salary: R$2,000 – R$3,500 (USD $400 – $700)
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Reason: Growing e-commerce increases demand.
3. General Laborer in Construction
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Starting monthly salary: R$1,800 – R$3,000 (USD $360 – $600)
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Why no experience needed: Work under supervision.
4. Cleaner/Janitor in Industrial Settings
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Salary range: R$1,500 – R$2,800 (USD $300 – $560)
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Demand: Always needed in factories and offices.
Blue-Collar Jobs That Pay Over $100,000 per Year
In Brazil, very few blue-collar jobs reach over $100,000 annually, but some skilled trades and specialist roles do:
1. Senior Electrician or Technician
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Annual salary: R$250,000+ (~USD $50,000+)
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Reason: High expertise and safety responsibility.
2. Specialized Heavy Equipment Operator (Mining)
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Annual salary: R$220,000+ (~USD $44,000+)
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Why high pay: Risk and skill in mining sectors.
3. Certified Welder in Oil and Gas Industry
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Annual salary: R$210,000+ (~USD $42,000+)
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Pay driver: Hazardous environment and precision work.
Highest Paying Blue-Collar Jobs Without a Degree
Many blue-collar jobs in Brazil require no university degree but focus on vocational training or certifications:
Skilled Trades without Degrees:
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Electrician (with certification)
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Welder (certified courses)
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HVAC Technician (vocational training)
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Heavy Machinery Operator (licenses)
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Truck Driver (professional driver license)
These jobs pay well because of skills and training, not formal degrees.
How to Get a Blue-Collar Job in Brazil as a Foreigner
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Work visa: Obtain a visa that allows employment.
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Language: Learn basic Portuguese for communication.
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Training: Complete vocational or on-the-job training.
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Networking: Use job portals and recruitment agencies.
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Legal requirements: Ensure documentation and permits.
Summary Table: Highest Paying Blue-Collar Jobs in Brazil 2025
| Job Title | Monthly Salary Range (BRL) | USD Equivalent (Monthly) | Degree Required | Experience Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Technician | 5,000 – 9,000 | $1,000 – $1,800 | No | Moderate |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 4,500 – 8,500 | $900 – $1,700 | No | Moderate |
| Welder | 3,500 – 7,000 | $700 – $1,400 | No | Moderate |
| Plumber | 3,000 – 6,500 | $600 – $1,300 | No | Moderate |
| Truck Driver | 3,500 – 7,500 | $700 – $1,500 | No | Moderate |
| HVAC Technician | 4,000 – 8,000 | $800 – $1,600 | No | Moderate |
| Warehouse Worker | 1,800 – 3,200 | $360 – $640 | No | No |
| Delivery Driver | 2,000 – 3,500 | $400 – $700 | No | No |
| General Construction Laborer | 1,800 – 3,000 | $360 – $600 | No | No |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the highest paying blue-collar jobs in Brazil?
Electrical technicians, heavy equipment operators, welders, and truck drivers are among the top earners.
2. Can foreigners get blue-collar jobs in Brazil easily?
Yes, especially in construction, transport, and manufacturing, but work permits and Portuguese help.
3. Are there blue-collar jobs in Brazil that pay well with no experience?
Yes, jobs like warehouse worker, delivery driver, and construction laborer often hire beginners.
4. Which blue-collar jobs pay over $100,000 a year in Brazil?
Highly skilled technicians in mining, oil, and electricity sectors can reach this level.
5. Do blue-collar jobs require a university degree?
Most do not. Vocational training and certifications are more important.
6. How can I increase my salary as a blue-collar worker?
Gain certifications, increase experience, and specialize in high-demand skills.
7. What industries offer the best blue-collar salaries in Brazil?
Mining, oil and gas, construction, and energy sectors offer the highest pay.
Conclusion: Blue-Collar Job Opportunities and Salaries in Brazil 2025
Blue-collar jobs in Brazil are a strong career choice in 2025. Many roles pay well, especially for skilled workers. Foreigners have opportunities too, though work permits and language skills are essential.
Whether you want a high-paying job with no degree or a role that can earn over $100,000 yearly, Brazil’s labor market has options. Training and certifications improve your chances of better pay.
Start by choosing a trade, gaining skills, and applying for jobs in growing industries. With effort, blue-collar work in Brazil can provide a good income and stable career.