SAP isn’t just a system; it’s a massive opportunity for building a career in IT and business. Are you wondering what opportunities SAP offers and how much you can earn in Poland? This comprehensive guide will answer your questions and help you understand the differences between key users, in-house consultants, consulting specialists, and freelancers.
Why Consider a Career in SAP?
The SAP market in Poland is growing rapidly. In 2023, demand for SAP professionals increased by 20%, with the market expanding at an average annual rate of 8%. Salaries are equally attractive — the average monthly salary in Poland is around €5,500 gross. However, this average masks a range of roles and career paths, each with distinct challenges, requirements, and earning potential.
Key Roles in SAP and Their Specific
1. Key User – Your First Steps in SAP
Key users are experts in their fields who combine business process knowledge with basic SAP system skills. Typically, they spend 3 to 5 years in operational roles before transitioning to more technical positions. This is an ideal starting point for those new to SAP.
- Earnings: Key users primarily work under employment contracts and earn between €2,200 and €3,300 gross per month.
- Challenges: Balancing daily business responsibilities with system management tasks.
- Growth Opportunities: Advancement to roles such as business analyst, project manager, or in-house consultant.
2. In-House Consultant – Stability and Growth Within a Company
In-house consultants implement, optimize, and maintain SAP systems within a company, often in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, or finance.
- Earnings: €3,300–€5,500 gross per month. Consultants in central international teams may earn more.
- Benefits: Stable employment (average tenure is 8 years), a deep understanding of business processes.
- Challenges: Limited opportunities for technological growth and dependence on central IT budgets and decisions.
3. Consultant in a Consulting Firm – Dynamic Work and High Salaries
Consultants in consulting firms tackle diverse client projects, gaining a broad spectrum of technical and business expertise.
- Earnings: 20–30% higher than in-house consultants, typically €4,400–€7,700 gross per month on B2B contracts.
- Benefits: Exposure to various projects, structured career paths, access to training, and mentoring.
- Challenges: Longer working hours (up to 10 hours more per week), higher pressure, and risk of burnout within 3–5 years.
4. Freelancer – Maximum Earnings, Maximum Independence
Freelancers are highly experienced specialists handling short-term projects on a contract basis. They must be self-reliant and prepared for the risks associated with maintaining a steady workflow.
- Earnings: €150–€200 per hour in Europe. On monthly projects, this can exceed €15,000 gross, depending on workload.
- Benefits: The highest earnings and flexible work arrangements.
- Challenges: Finding consistent work, lack of development support, and additional costs like professional liability insurance.
The Ideal SAP Career Path
For those who want to make the most of the SAP industry, we recommend progressing through all stages:
- Key User – Building business knowledge.
- In-House Consultant – Gaining technical and process expertise.
- Consultant in a Consulting Firm – Developing technical and project management skills.
- Freelancer – Leveraging expertise and achieving independence.
The Future of SAP in Poland: People, Processes, and Technology
Technological advancements, such as process automation and AI development (e.g., SAP’s Joule), will significantly shape the future of SAP careers. Specialized technical skills may take a back seat to the ability to bridge the gap between business, technology, and processes. The consultants of tomorrow will primarily act as intermediaries, connecting these elements, paving the way for exciting growth opportunities.
Conclusion
A career in SAP in Poland offers diverse opportunities and paths, ranging from stable in-house roles to high-earning freelance projects. Choosing the right path depends on your priorities, such as stability, development, or earning potential. To learn more, download our SAP salary report or get in touch with our experts.
