Recent changes to labor laws in Brazil are directly affecting the job market and, in particular, hiring in the industrial sector. With reforms focused on making labor relations more flexible and increasing the competitiveness of companies, the impact of these new rules can already be felt in different areas of industry.

Flexibility in hiring

One of the main changes brought about by the new labor laws is the increased flexibility in hiring methods, which is having a direct impact on industries. Previously, the predominant employment contract was the traditional CLT (Consolidation of Labor Laws), but with the reforms, new modalities have emerged that are being widely used by companies in the industrial sector.

Among the forms of hiring that have gained prominence are:

  • Intermittent workThe intermittent work model allows industries to hire professionals only when there is specific demand, paying only for the hours worked. This is particularly useful in sectors with seasonality or variable production, such as the food or textile industries.
  • TeleworkingAlthough more common in administrative sectors, teleworking (or remote work) has been adopted for some support and management functions in industries. This flexibility has helped to reduce operational costs.
  • Temporary contractsAnother form of flexibility that has gained traction is the temporary contract, which allows the company to adjust its workforce according to demand, without compromising the long term.

These methods are allowing industries to adjust their operations according to production needs, increasing efficiency and reducing costs, especially during times of economic uncertainty.

Cost reduction for employers

With the new legislation, industries are managing to reduce the costs associated with hiring employees, which has facilitated the creation of new jobs. The possibility of negotiating directly with unions and workers about specific working conditions, such as hours and vacations, is one of the changes that most impacts the sector.

Among the main factors that helped reduce hiring costs, the following stand out:

  • Reduction of labor costsThe new rules have made it easier to pay social security contributions, which reduces the burden on employers and encourages hiring, especially of temporary or intermittent workers.
  • Possibility of collective agreementsIndustries can negotiate directly with unions, creating collective agreements that benefit both parties and allow for adjustments to working conditions according to the realities of each sector.

These measures have allowed industries to increase their hiring in a more strategic way, without compromising the financial sustainability of their operations.

Impact on professional qualifications

With the easing of hiring practices and the adoption of new technologies in the industrial sector, the profile of professionals required by industries is also changing. Companies are increasingly seeking employees with technical skills and specific qualifications that can be applied immediately.

The focus on hiring skilled labor is a growing trend. With the introduction of technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence, and big data in industries, professionals with knowledge in these areas are becoming indispensable.

Therefore, it is possible to observe a greater demand for:

  • Specialized technicians and engineersWith new technologies dominating the industrial landscape, the demand for technical professionals and engineers specializing in automation, robotics, and systems maintenance has grown significantly.
  • IT professionalsThe implementation of digital systems in factories requires specialized support in information technology, which leads to the hiring of professionals in this area, even in traditional industries.
  • Automated machine operatorsWith the adoption of Industry 4.0, machine operators are being trained to handle increasingly sophisticated equipment, increasing the demand for skilled workers.

The need for continuous training is also becoming increasingly evident. Workers need to keep up-to-date with the new demands of the market and industries, which is driving the demand for technical and vocational training courses.

Challenges for workers

Despite the new opportunities created by changes in labor laws, workers also face some challenges. Flexibility in hiring practices can, in some cases, mean less stability and financial security, especially for those working on an intermittent or temporary basis.

Among the main challenges faced by professionals, the following stand out:

  • Insecurity in temporary contractsAlthough industries are hiring more under flexible arrangements, many workers have reported concerns about the lack of stability in temporary and intermittent contracts.
  • Challenges in negotiating working conditionsThe possibility of collective and individual agreements has brought benefits to some, but it has also generated the need for greater negotiating power on the part of workers, who need to ensure that their rights are preserved.
  • Need for constant qualificationWith the evolution of industries and the implementation of new technologies, the demand for constant qualification can be an obstacle for those who do not have access to resources or time to train themselves.

These challenges are especially noticeable among less-skilled professionals, who may face greater difficulties adapting to the new labor and industrial landscape.

New opportunities for young people and freelancers.

While flexibility in hiring can create uncertainty for some workers, it also opens doors for new groups of professionals, such as young people seeking their first job and freelancers who prefer the freedom of a less rigid contract.

The industry is offering opportunities in areas such as:

  • Internships and trainee programsWith the new scenario, many industries are investing in training programs for young professionals, which can be an excellent entry point for those starting out in the job market.
  • Freelancers and self-employed workersProfessionals who choose to work independently, offering specific services to industries, have found new opportunities for collaboration, especially in areas such as technology and product design.

These groups of workers, who often value flexibility in their routines, have benefited from the new hiring models offered by industries.

Adapting to the new scenario is essential.

In 2024, Brazilian industry is reinventing itself to keep up with changes in labor laws and technological innovations shaping the job market. For workers, it is essential to be aware of these changes and seek qualifications to remain competitive in the new industrial landscape.

The new laws are undoubtedly bringing greater flexibility to companies and new forms of hiring, but they also require professionals to be increasingly skilled and adaptable. By understanding the new rules and their implications, both companies and workers can better take advantage of the opportunities offered by this new era in labor relations.

With this, the industrial sector is moving towards a more dynamic and competitive future, in which innovation and skills will be the main drivers of growth and development.

See also: Ri Happy Group opens more than 300 jobs across the country

October 12, 2024