Poland's AI Talent Shortage Drives High Salaries and Slows Business Adoption

Polish companies are scrambling for AI specialists as supply lags far behind demand. Recruiters report that senior AI engineers can earn up to 300 PLN per hour on B2B contracts or 50,000 PLN monthly in permanent roles. Employers are often the ones reaching out to candidates, who rarely need to look for jobs.

The shortage is hindering AI projects. PwC data show that roughly 75 % of large Polish firms ran AI or advanced analytics initiatives in 2025, yet only 43 % realized the expected benefits, and two‑thirds of projects stalled at the proof‑of‑concept stage. A McKinsey survey found 64 % of executives say AI drives innovation, but just 39 % see measurable impact on operating profit. The most successful firms—about 20 % of the market—capture three‑quarters of AI‑generated economic value, earning seven times higher revenues than peers.