First Steps
Working in supermarkets: entry-level positions
Looking for your first job? The supermarket sector offers real opportunities to start without experience. Here's how to get started and what to expect.
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Your first step towards stable and accessible employment in the commercial sector
Getting your first job may seem difficult, but working in supermarkets is one of the most accessible and in-demand options throughout Spain.
This sector values responsibility, punctuality, and customer service, even above previous experience. Therefore, it's ideal for those looking to start from scratch.

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Supermarkets offer a wide variety of positions, from checkout to stocking, cleaning, and customer service. Many of them include in-house training.
Furthermore, large chains such as Mercadona, Lidl, Carrefour, and DIA are constantly hiring and allow for professional growth from the most entry-level positions.
In this article, you'll learn about the main entry-level positions available in supermarkets, the most common requirements, and tips to help you stand out in your application.
Why choose a supermarket to start with?
Starting out in a supermarket is an excellent decision for those looking for their first job. Below, we give you three clear reasons why it's worth it.
Easy adaptation to the work environment
Entry-level supermarket tasks are simple, repetitive, and easy to learn. This makes it easy to adapt without experience and quickly gain confidence in the new job.
Furthermore, being surrounded by a team with defined roles allows for constant observation and learning. It's a low-risk environment for taking your first professional steps.
Development of key skills
From day one, you'll improve skills such as communication, teamwork, and organization. Everything you learn will be useful for future jobs, even in other fields.
Customer service, punctuality, and problem-solving are qualities that every employer values, and you can start building them in this environment.
Real growth possibilities
Many chains offer internal promotions. Starting as a stocker and progressing to store manager is a possible path if you demonstrate commitment, punctuality, and a willingness to learn.
Some companies even offer internal courses and access to promotions through evaluations. This is a real opportunity for those who want to advance without leaving the company.
Common requirements to start without experience
Although each supermarket has its own process, there are basic requirements that tend to be repeated in most offers for starting a supermarket.
📌 Total time availability: : The ability to work weekends, holidays, or rotating shifts based on the supermarket's needs is valued.
📌 Complete secondary education: It is not always mandatory, but in some chains it is a minimum requirement to access positions open to the public.
📌 Good attitude and presence: Showing a desire to learn, treating customers well, and looking professional helps make a good first impression.
📌 Basic knowledge of the languageIn tourist areas or with a diverse clientele, knowing how to communicate well is key to working in supermarkets without problems.
📌 Residence near the postMany recruiters prefer candidates who live close to the supermarket, for reasons of punctuality and ease of travel.
Most common entry-level positions in supermarkets
Below, we explore the most accessible positions for first-time job seekers. These positions require no prior experience and offer entry-level contracts.
Replenisher
The stocker is responsible for placing products on the shelves, monitoring expiration dates, and ensuring that the sections are organized and complete.
No previous experience is required. Agility, organization, and the ability to follow instructions are valued. This is an ideal position to start immediately and learn from day one.
ATM
The cashier serves customers at the checkout counter, handles money, and ensures each purchase is recorded correctly. They must also keep their work area clean.
Although it may seem complex, it's an easy position to learn. Most supermarkets train their cashiers before they start, making it an excellent option.
Cleaning assistant
This employee is responsible for keeping the supermarket's spaces clean, from the aisles to the restrooms and storage areas, following basic hygiene protocols.
No training is required. All that's expected is commitment, punctuality, and attention to detail. It's one of the most consistent roles within any supermarket team.
Which supermarkets frequently hire beginners?
Those who want to work in supermarkets without experience should know which chains hire most frequently and what types of positions typically open up.
📌 Mercadona: Hires frequently, offers paid training, and above-average salaries. Excellent option for those looking for stable work from the start.
📌 Lidl: offers permanent contracts from day one and promotes its internal staff. Ideal for young people with a good attitude but no prior experience.
📌 Carrefour: Seeks reinforcements during peak seasons and part-time positions. Offers flexibility and opportunities for students or people seeking a second income.
📌 Aldi: Its selection processes are fast and transparent. It hires staff for cashiering, stocking, and cleaning, with flexible schedules and formal contracts.
📌 DAY: With a presence in neighborhoods and towns, it's accessible to those living outside of major urban centers. It offers temporary contracts with frequent renewals.
Advantages of working in supermarkets
These are some of the main advantages of working in supermarkets, a sector that represents an excellent entry point into the world of work. Many people begin their careers here.
Contract and job security
Most supermarkets offer legal contracts from day one, with Social Security contributions, medical coverage, and access to basic employee benefits.
This provides peace of mind for new employees, as it allows them to build seniority and stability without having to work in informal or non-permanent jobs.
Possibility of internal growth
Many supermarkets have internal promotion programs. Starting as a stocker or assistant can lead to administrative or higher-level positions.
In addition, the employee's seniority and commitment are valued. Often, those who manage to grow started with no experience, just wanting to work in supermarkets and progress.
Proximity and low transportation costs
Having supermarkets in almost every neighborhood and town makes it possible to work close to home. This saves time and money and facilitates work-life balance.
It also reduces the stress of daily commuting and improves quality of life. For many beginners, this makes a big difference when starting their career.
Stability for those starting from scratch
If you're just starting out in your career, working in supermarkets gives you stability, a contract from day one, and a clear routine that helps you gain experience.
Plus, you don't need advanced degrees or specific training. Only with responsibility and a good attitude can you maintain employment and build a solid and reliable work history.
What to read next if you're starting from scratch?
If you're determined to work in supermarkets, the next step is to prepare yourself to apply effectively, even if you've never worked before or have no prior training.
Having a good resume and a clear attitude during the interview can make all the difference, especially in sectors where willingness is valued more than experience.
Learning to talk about your personal skills, being punctual, and understanding how basic selection processes work are key to successfully taking your first steps in the workforce.
Therefore, we recommend reading the article: "How to Get a Job Without Professional Experience," where you'll find practical advice, examples, and tools to get started today.

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