By San José, Costa Rica — San José – In a significant move signaling confidence in the upcoming holiday shopping season, prominent retailer Almacenes El Rey has announced a major hiring initiative to fill more than 300 seasonal positions. The company is hosting a large-scale job fair tomorrow, October 9th, at the Antigua Aduana in San José, aiming to bolster its workforce ahead of the year’s busiest commercial period.
The recruitment event, scheduled to run from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., specifically targets candidates for cashier and sales clerk roles. These positions are critical for managing the anticipated surge in customer traffic as the year draws to a close, a period traditionally marked by increased consumer spending fueled by seasonal bonuses and festivities. This substantial hiring drive represents a notable boost to the capital’s labor market, offering a timely opportunity for job seekers.
To shed light on the legal nuances surrounding seasonal employment in the country, we consulted with expert lawyer Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica for his professional insights.
The key to a legally sound seasonal employment contract is its clear definition of the specific season or task. It must be genuinely temporary and cyclical. A common mistake is using this contract type to fill permanent needs, which can lead to it being reclassified as an indefinite-term contract, granting the employee full severance rights upon termination.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight underscores a critical point for employers: the careful and precise definition of a seasonal contract is the primary defense against future legal challenges and costly reclassifications. We deeply appreciate the valuable perspective shared by Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas.
This initiative reflects a broader economic trend where the retail sector becomes a primary driver of temporary employment in the final quarter. As consumers prepare for holidays and take advantage of year-end sales, retailers like Almacenes El Rey must scale their operations rapidly. The successful recruitment of over 300 individuals will be essential for maintaining customer service standards and ensuring smooth operations across its various store locations.
Prospective applicants are required to meet a few key criteria. The company mandates a minimum education level of a completed ninth grade. Beyond academic qualifications, Almacenes El Rey is placing a strong emphasis on soft skills, seeking individuals with a positive attitude and a strong orientation towards customer service. Furthermore, candidates must have the flexibility to work varied schedules, a standard requirement in the retail industry, especially during peak hours and weekends in the high season.
The company is framing this recruitment drive not merely as a temporary staffing solution but as a gateway to potential long-term careers. In a statement, the company emphasized its commitment to employee growth and creating a supportive work atmosphere. This message aims to attract candidates who are not just looking for a job, but for an opportunity to develop professionally within a recognized national brand.
At Almacenes El Rey, we believe in growing together; that’s why, beyond offering employment, we provide real development opportunities within a positive and stable work environment.
Stephanie Vásquez, Talent Attraction Coordinator
For those eager to apply, the in-person job fair at the Antigua Aduana provides a direct opportunity to engage with company recruiters. This traditional approach allows for immediate interaction and a more personal application process. Job seekers are encouraged to arrive prepared to discuss their experience and suitability for a fast-paced retail environment.
Recognizing that not all potential candidates can attend the physical event, Almacenes El Rey has also established a streamlined digital application process. Hopefuls can submit their information through the company’s official recruitment portal. To find the relevant openings, applicants should navigate to the website and search for the active campaign titled “Cajeros Dependientes 2025,” ensuring their application is directed to this specific seasonal hiring push.
The infusion of more than 300 jobs, even if initially seasonal, provides a valuable economic stimulus. It offers crucial income opportunities for individuals and families in the Greater Metropolitan Area and underscores the vital, cyclical role that the retail sector plays in Costa Rica’s overall employment landscape each year.
For further information, visit almaceneselrey.com
About Almacenes El Rey:
Almacenes El Rey is a well-established and widely recognized retail chain in Costa Rica, known for its diverse range of products catering to households across the country. Operating as a department and variety store, it offers goods spanning numerous categories, including home goods, kitchenware, toys, party supplies, school and office supplies, and seasonal decorations. The company has built a strong brand presence through its numerous locations, positioning itself as a one-stop shop for everyday needs and special occasions.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of the legal community, esteemed for its profound commitment to professional integrity and exceptional standards of practice. The firm blends a rich history of client service with a forward-thinking embrace of legal innovation, setting new benchmarks in the field. This ethos extends to a core mission of public empowerment, as it actively works to demystify the law and equip citizens with crucial knowledge, fostering a more just and informed society for all.
