Project Manager salary in Poland

Project Managers in Poland typically earn between 35,000 to 40,000 USD per year after taxes. However, it's important to note that actual earnings can vary significantly based on various factors.

In this article, we discuss the role and salaries of Project Managers in Poland. You'll learn about the key tasks and skills needed for an IT Project Manager and how this role varies from other sectors. We'll cover the differences between Contract of Employment and B2B contracts, including their implications for work permits and taxation. You'll also find detailed salary information for Project Managers under different contracts and levels of experience. Lastly, the article answers common questions about working as a Project Manager in Poland, such as remote work options, language requirements, salary bonuses, and technical expertise.

Who is a Project Manager

A Project Manager (PM) in the IT industry is a professional responsible for planning, executing, and overseeing projects to ensure they are completed on time, within budget, and meet the project objectives. In the dynamic world of IT, a PM's role is crucial in bridging the gap between technical and non-technical aspects of project delivery.

Key Responsibilities

The core responsibilities of an IT Project Manager include:

• Defining Project Scope and Objectives:Clearly outlining what needs to be achieved, often in consultation with stakeholders.
• Planning and Scheduling:Developing detailed project plans, timelines, and milestones.
• Resource Management:Allocating and managing resources, including team members and technology.
• Budget Management:Ensuring the project stays within financial constraints.
• Risk Management:Identifying potential risks and implementing strategies to mitigate them.
• Quality Assurance:Ensuring the project meets the required standards and objectives.
• Communication:Regularly updating stakeholders on project progress and challenges.

Differences from Other Industries

While the fundamental role of a PM is consistent across industries, there are key differences in the IT sector:

• Technology Focus:IT PMs must keep up with rapidly evolving tech trends, unlike their counterparts in more static industries.
• Agile Methodologies:The use of agile methodologies like Scrum and Kanban is more prevalent in IT, requiring PMs to be adaptable and flexible.
• Complex Stakeholder Management:IT projects often involve a broader range of stakeholders, from developers to end-users, making stakeholder management more complex.
• Higher Degree of Change Management:Given the fast-paced nature of technology, IT PMs frequently deal with changes in project scope and direction.

In conclusion, an IT Project Manager plays a pivotal role in the successful delivery of technology projects, requiring a unique set of skills and adaptability to the ever-changing IT landscape.

How employment in Poland works?

In Poland, there are two common types of work arrangements: the Contract of Employment (Umowa o pracę) and Business-to-Business (B2B) contracts. Understanding the differences between these two is crucial for anyone considering working in Poland.

Contract of Employment (Umowa o pracę)

A Contract of Employment is a traditional employment contract. It's often preferred for its stability and the benefits it offers, like paid leave and social security.

• Work Permit or Residency:To work under this contract, non-EU citizens usually need a work permit or residency in Poland.
• Taxation:Taxes and social security contributions are automatically deducted from your salary. The employer also contributes to social security and health insurance on your behalf.

B2B Contracts

B2B contracts involve working as a self-employed individual or through your own company, invoicing the company you work for. This arrangement is popular in the IT sector.

• Global Work Flexibility:With a B2B contract, you can work from anywhere in the world. It's ideal for remote work and offers more flexibility.
• Taxation:You're responsible for your own taxes and social security payments. The tax rate depends on how your business is set up and where it's registered. In Poland, you can choose between a flat tax rate or a progressive tax system. B2B contracts can sometimes offer tax benefits, depending on your situation.

Key Differences

• Stability vs. Flexibility:The Contract of Employment offers more job security and benefits, while B2B provides more flexibility and the potential for higher earnings.
• Tax and Social Security:With an employment contract, the employer handles your taxes and social security contributions. In a B2B arrangement, you manage these yourself.

Salaries of Project Managers in Poland

Project Managers in Poland are among the well-paid specialists in the IT industry. Their salaries vary based on experience and the type of contract they are working under: Contract of Employment or B2B (Business-to-Business). The following data, sourced from the comprehensive Polish IT Community Report, highlights these differences.

Salaries on Contract of Employment (After Tax)

Here, the salaries are presented after tax deductions:

• Junior Project Manager:6,105 PLN per month
• Mid/Regular Project Manager:8,664 PLN per month
• Senior Project Manager:12,285 PLN per month
• Project Manager (Middle Management):13,688 PLN per month

Salaries on B2B Contract (Before Tax)

In the case of B2B contracts, the figures are before tax:

• Mid/Regular Project Manager:13,822 PLN per month
• Senior Project Manager:21,008 PLN per month
• Project Manager (Middle Management):22,596 PLN per month

Project Managers command higher salaries compared to many other roles in the IT sector. Notably, the difference in pay between a Senior Project Manager and a Project Manager in middle management is relatively small. However, the jump in responsibility is significant. Also, the choice between a Contract of Employment and a B2B contract can significantly affect take-home pay and responsibilities, including tax handling.

Where to Find Project Manager Jobs?

If you're looking for a Project Manager position in Poland, knowing where to begin your job hunt is crucial. A recommended starting point is Bulldogjob.com 😎, which features a range of job listings tailored for Project Managers:

Project Manager Jobs

We hope this guide assists you in your job search and interview preparation journey. Should you have any additional questions or insights to share, please don't hesitate to reach out in the comments section.

FAQ on Working as a Project Manager in Poland

Can I work remotely from outside the country?

For B2B contracts, yes, especially for foreigners. It offers flexibility to work remotely. For Contract of Employment (UoP), it's less likely due to procedural complexities.

Do I need to know Polish?

Not necessarily. Many international companies in Poland use English for communication. However, not knowing Polish may limit your options with some employers.

Should I count on salary bonuses?

Salary bonuses are not very common in Polish companies. Some corporations may offer bonuses, but they usually don't exceed 10% of the base salary. However, you might get benefits like healthcare or sports packages, especially useful if you live in Poland.

Do I need to be a technical person?

An engineering degree isn't essential, but it can be beneficial. It helps in communicating more effectively with developers and stakeholders in many fields. However, you can still be successful in this role if you're willing to learn.

What is the conversion rate for PLN to USD?

The exchange rate often fluctuates between 4 to 4.5 PLN for 1 USD. At the time of writing this, it's 4.01 PLN. This is important to consider when applying for positions in Poland.