HR & workforce

Labor market analytics in Poland 2026: most in-demand specialties and where it’s hardest to find workers

June 2026 · Research · 10 min read

Workforce and operations context in Poland — Frontline intensity: logistics hubs, production, and service roles across Poland.

In 2026, Poland’s labor market remains one of the most challenging in Europe. With record-low unemployment, companies face a severe labor shortage, particularly in blue-collar occupations.

The deficit affects manufacturing, warehouse logistics, transportation, and services. This article provides up-to-date analytics on the most in-demand roles, salary levels, and practical recommendations for employers.

Current state of Poland’s labor market in 2026

Unemployment rate: 3–5% (one of the lowest in the EU).
Labor shortage: Estimated at 800,000 to 1.5 million open positions.
Foreign workforce: Over 1.1 million foreign workers (approximately 7% of the total workforce).
Main source countries: Ukraine, Belarus, Uzbekistan, Turkey, India, and Georgia.

The most acute shortage is observed in blue-collar segments.

Top in-demand specialties and analytics for 2026

1. Warehouse logistics

Key positions: Warehouse worker, forklift operator (UDT certificate), order picker, goods receiving/shipping specialist.

Average salary (gross): 4,800 – 7,000 PLN + shift and overtime allowances.

Shortage level: Very high. Especially difficult to find certified forklift operators.

2. Manufacturing

Food production: Bakers, confectioners, butchers, packers, production line operators.

Light industry: Seamstresses, sewing machine operators, assemblers.

Average salary: 4,500 – 7,000 PLN gross.

3. Transportation and logistics

Roles: C+E license drivers, couriers.

Average salary: 6,500 – 12,000+ PLN gross (depending on routes).

4. Care and cleaning services

Roles: Elderly care workers (opiekunka osób starszych), cleaners and housekeeping staff.

Average salary: 4,200 – 6,000 PLN gross + accommodation often provided.

5. HoReCa (hotels & restaurants)

Roles: Cooks, kitchen staff, dishwashers, waiters.

Seasonality: Strong seasonal demand in spring and autumn.

Demand comparison table (2026)

Comparison of shortage intensity, pay bands, hiring speed, and reliance on foreign workers by specialty.
Specialty	Shortage level	Avg. salary (gross)	Time to fill	Foreign workers
Forklift operator	Very high	5,200 – 7,000 PLN	7–14 days	75–85%
Warehouse worker	High	4,800 – 6,500 PLN	5–12 days	70–80%
Seamstress / sewing operator	High	4,800 – 6,800 PLN	10–25 days	80%+
Food production worker	High	4,500 – 6,500 PLN	7–18 days	65–75%
Elderly care worker	Medium-high	4,500 – 6,000 PLN + housing	14–30 days	85%+
C+E driver	High	7,000 – 12,000+ PLN	14–45 days	60–70%

Conclusions and practical recommendations

The most difficult positions to fill are in warehouses (especially forklift operators) and sewing production. It is nearly impossible to meet demand without foreign labor.

Employers offering accommodation, transportation, meals, and timely payments significantly reduce staff turnover.

Hybrid recruitment models (internal recruiting + specialized agencies) deliver the best results in the current market.

Speed of hiring directly impacts operational efficiency — downtime at a warehouse or production line can cost tens of thousands of zlotys per day.

Poland’s labor market in 2026 is a classic seller’s market with a pronounced labor shortage. Companies that effectively work with foreign workforce, quickly adapt HR processes, and maintain strong execution standards gain a significant competitive advantage.

Eurasia Execution Lab helps international companies rapidly scale teams in Poland and across Eurasia — from mass recruitment and legalization of foreign personnel to field team management and operational control.

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