Petrobras ranks among the world’s largest oil and energy companies. Jobs at Petrobras attract thousands every year. Many are drawn by the promise of solid benefits, long-term security, and the chance to join a global brand.
Whether you’re a student, a skilled technician, or an executive with years of background, the variety of opportunities is broad.
This guide covers what to expect, the main application steps, and tips on positioning yourself for success. The focus is educational, aiming to illuminate the process for anyone interested in Petrobras job vacancies .
Why Consider a Career at Petrobras?
Curiosity about Petrobras jobs isn’t uncommon. Those already in Brazil, or thinking about a move, often see the company as a pathway to stability or career growth.
There’s also a social prestige element, especially for engineering and project management roles. But what is it really like?
Competitive Salaries and Benefits
Petrobras generally offers compensation that exceeds industry averages. Most positions come with established labor contracts.
Employees usually benefit from health insurance plans, meal vouchers, transportation assistance, and performance-based bonuses. For some, this package alone can be a deciding factor.
Training & Career Development
Continuous training is a hallmark at Petrobras. New hires participate in onboarding programs, while internal development initiatives foster promotion from within. That said, upward movement may depend on your role, department, and even timing.
Diversity of Opportunities
Job offerings aren’t just for engineers or geologists. There are administrative, financial, legal, tech, and supply chain openings as well. Some may not realize just how many departments contribute to the energy sector’s daily operation.

Types of Roles and Entry Paths
The main entry points include permanent staff positions, internships, apprenticeships, and trainee programs. Each suits different educational backgrounds and levels of prior experience. Exploring these channels helps in deciding when—and how—to submit an application.
Permanent Staff
Permanent staff hiring is primarily through public selection processes, often called “concursos públicos.” Brazilian regulations require transparency in the selection of public or semi-public company employees, and Petrobras follows suit.
Full-time positions tend to come with greater security and a more predictable advancement path.
Internships
For college students, internships at Petrobras are popular. They offer a taste of working in the sector while completing studies. Placement is competitive, and performance during the internship can sometimes lead to further opportunities down the line.
Trainee and Apprenticeship Programs
Recent graduates may opt for trainee programs focused on accelerated professional development. Apprentice options exist for younger candidates, often still in school, and provide technical exposure and early work experience.
Where to Find Petrobras Job Vacancies
The official Petrobras Careers portal lists open vacancies. Announcements are posted for each recruitment drive.
Sometimes, openings are also advertised through partner recruitment agencies, but the safest and most trustworthy source remains the company’s own site.
- Permanent positions
- Listed during periodic ‘concursos públicos’
- Details found on the Petrobras website under the ‘Public Selection Process’ section
- Internships/Trainees
- Separate application cycle, usually mid-year or end-year
- Temporary Positions
- Less common, mostly through official partners
Understanding the Application Process
For most job tracks, the process is organized and regulated. Some steps can catch new applicants off guard, so it’s wise to prepare in advance, even if you’re just browsing options for now.
Step 1: Monitoring Public Selection Announcements
Public selection (the “concurso” process) acts as the gatekeeper for new hires. Applicants are required to review official job notices, which detail open positions, requirements, application deadlines, and testing formats.
Step 2: Preparing Application Materials
The required documents often include a resume (CV), identification, and proof of academic background.
Some positions ask for professional registration or language proficiency certifications. Double-checking each announcement matters, as rejected applications are rarely reconsidered.
Step 3: Submitting Applications Online
Most processes are digital now. The Petrobras portal guides candidates through form completion, document uploads, and sometimes fee payment. It’s fairly streamlined, but the volume of applicants can mean wait times for confirmation and further instructions.
Step 4: Written Testing and Interviews
Written exams are a hallmark of Petrobras selection. Questions tend to focus on general knowledge, technical expertise, and company values. Some tests stress math, physics, or specific job skills. Later rounds might include group exercises or individual interviews.
Step 5: Final Evaluation
The last assessments sometimes involve background and health checks. For many, this is the most anxiety-inducing part, but knowing this up front may reduce stress. Successful candidates are added to a hiring list, with appointments made as openings arise.
Key Requirements for Most Roles
Requirements depend heavily on role. Engineering positions ask for degrees in relevant fields and, often, CRE (Conselho Regional de Engenharia) registration.
Administrative and support roles typically require secondary or higher education, and sometimes prior experience in similar functions.
General Requirements Table
| Job Type | Education Level | Certifications Needed | Selection Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree | CRE Registration | Concurso + Tests |
| Administrative | Secondary or Higher | None/Varies | Concurso + Tests |
| Intern | Enrolled in College | None | Selection + Interview |
| Trainee | Recently Graduated | None | Selection + Interview |
Tips for Enhancing Your Petrobras Application
Some applicants find themselves stalling over the same concerns—competition, rigid deadlines, or second-guessing their fit for the role. The process can seem daunting, but a few cautious strategies may help.
- Staying updated with new selection processes is crucial; Petrobras releases them on a rolling basis.
- Personalizing your CV to highlight relevant technical or administrative skills can make an application stand out. Sometimes, candidates overlook simple details that recruiters notice.
- Simulation of written exam questions using online resources (not affiliated with Petrobras) offers early insight into test structures. Examples can be found on independent educational portals.
- Network with current or former Petrobras employees, even if only virtually, to understand real expectations behind the job listings.
- Document organization helps avoid last-minute setbacks; keeping digital copies of certificates and identity documents ready can save time.
Legal and Tax Considerations for Petrobras Employees
Employment with Petrobras means adhering to Brazilian labor laws. Full-time workers are subject to formal contracts, tax withholding at source, and eligibility for statutory benefits. Tax residency rules apply, especially for expatriates or those relocating from other countries.
- Check eligibility for social security, healthcare, and pension schemes relevant to your contract type.
- Residency or visa requirements might come into play for non-Brazilian nationals. These typically align with the company’s own internal compliance policies and Brazilian federal legislation.
- Apprentices and interns are often covered by separate tax rules, with reduced obligations for students.Legal resources and guidance are listed on the Petrobras website, and independent consulting is wise for complex personal circumstances. More information on labor laws can be found at Brazil’s official government portal (https://www.gov.br).
Conclusion: Starting Your Petrobras Career Journey
Securing a position at Petrobras can mean long-term career growth, robust benefits, and a sense of professional achievement. The process might feel uncertain at first, and there’s no single correct approach.
Keeping documents ready, tracking new announcements, and preparing for written exams can increase your chances. Perhaps this is just the beginning. For more details on flexible careers in Brazil, readers might explore our broader job search resources or consider following Petrobras news channels for upcoming opportunities.











