What types of jobs are most attractive to Ukrainians in Poland?

Almost a million foreigners (997,000) were working in Poland at the end of July last year, according to the latest analysis from the Central Statistical Office (GUS). The largest group of foreign workers consists of Ukrainians (690,800 in July 2023).

Among the main reasons why many Ukrainians choose to work and live in Poland are the similarities in language, culture, better financial conditions, and the opportunity to secure themselves from the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Specialist in legalization and administration affairs at Smart Solutions, Tetiana Hrynchyshyn, discusses the types of jobs Ukrainians most often choose, as well as the prospects for development and challenges that Ukrainians face when seeking employment in Poland.

Simple professions are the most sought after among Ukrainians.

Many Ukrainians in Poland still work below their qualifications, mostly opting for manual labor: in manufacturing and warehouses, construction, agriculture, hotel and restaurant businesses, transportation and logistics, and the food industry.

Among service professions, these include hairdressers, cosmetologists, massage therapists, and physiotherapists. However, there is also a high demand for teachers, doctors, nurses, midwives, and professions in the IT sector.

Motives for choosing such professions include better financial conditions and legalization of stay in Poland. The main advantages of such work are easy legalization of residence and employment in Poland, linguistic and cultural similarities that facilitate adaptation in the country. Ukrainians, thus, have the opportunity to gain international experience and a higher salary compared to Ukraine.

Other significant factors motivating Ukrainians to work in Poland are better financial and social conditions, career prospects, and opportunities for development. Equally important are education, employment stability, family circumstances, and living conditions.

“This is especially important for people who were forced to leave or lost their homes during the war in Ukraine. All motives are individual and depend on the specific life situations of each person. These factors often intertwine, and the decision to choose a specific job may result from simultaneously considering several of the factors mentioned above,” – emphasizes Tetiana.

However, various challenges and difficulties can arise, both in the job search phase and during employment. These include language barriers, competition in the job market, and the lack of relevant skills or qualifications. Some foreign workers may face difficulties related to working conditions, such as long working hours, lack of flexibility, or inadequate health conditions. Changes in migration legislation or issues related to the legal status of residence can also affect job retention in Poland. Additionally, there are cases where foreign workers may have a limited understanding of local labor laws, leading to improper treatment or unrealistic expectations from employers.

But there are also development prospects.

They vary depending on the industry or type of chosen work. In some sectors, there are opportunities for career growth, especially for experienced workers with specialized skills.

“Developing your career and skills, participating in various courses and training after professional development, acquiring specialized skills in a specific field will help identify yourself as an expert in this area and open doors to higher positions,” – notes Tetiana Hrynchyshyn.

It is also worth emphasizing that development prospects depend on the employee’s aspirations, ambitions, and initiative. It is essential to pay attention to changes in the job market and adapt skills to current needs. Education, mobility, and flexibility are crucial elements for successful career development in any country, including Poland.

Skills and qualifications required for employment in Poland.

They may vary depending on the work sector. Valuable are those that meet employers’ expectations in a specific industry. Among the general skills and qualifications that may be particularly necessary for Ukrainians in Poland, knowledge of the Polish language, diplomas, and certificates confirming skills and qualifications in a specific field can be highlighted. Also, a willingness to adapt to changes in the work environment and flexible approaches to performing various tasks.

Moreover, there are professions that require specific skills. For example, professions in IT, medicine, education, the financial sector, etc.

Key points to consider when looking for a job in Poland.

“It is best to look for a job on popular social networks such as pracuj.pl, olx, LinkedIn. Recruiting agencies or temporary employment agencies can also help find a job that meets your expectations. You can check the websites of specific companies and institutions, where job offers are often posted. Join migrant groups on social networks, where hundreds of job advertisements are posted daily. The Embassy of Ukraine in Poland and consulates can be a source of information about the job market and offers tailored to the needs of Ukrainians,” – Tetiana advises.

Before sending your resume to a potential employer, check its reliability: read reviews from other employees, look for information about the company, its history, position, and reputation in the job market.

Carefully read the job offer and employment conditions, including: job responsibilities, working hours, salary, type of contract (agency agreement or employment contract), etc. Evaluate the opportunities for development and advancement in the new position.

Before making a decision, it is worth studying as much information as possible and familiarizing yourself with all the conditions related to employment. A responsible approach to job searching and thorough verification of the employer can significantly impact a positive work experience.

Tips for Ukrainians planning to work in Poland:

• Plan your migration and legal stay.
• Improve your language skills.
• Be flexible and open to learning.
• Obtain certificates and industry qualifications.
• Prepare a well-crafted resume and cover letter.
• Be active in the job search.
• Develop a network of professional contacts.
• Adapt to the work culture.
• Engage with the local community.

Preparing for work in Poland requires time and effort, but a disciplined approach, adaptability, and active participation in the local community can greatly facilitate the process of integration and career development.