Salary remains the strongest employment factor for Ukrainian IT specialists. In a recent survey, 69 percent said they would choose higher pay instead of an expanded corporate benefits package, although 49 percent were satisfied with their current benefits.
Flexibility is the most valued benefit
Remote work ranked first among non-salary advantages. A fully remote format was available to 69 percent of respondents, while 36 percent reported hybrid work and 35 percent had flexible schedules without rigid working hours.
Paid time off remains important
Paid vacation and sick leave ranked second, selected by 57 percent. Most specialists had more than 20 paid vacation days per year, while only a small minority worked under unlimited-leave policies. Cash bonuses ranked third with 49 percent.
Employer size affects satisfaction
About 60 percent of specialists in large product and outstaffing companies viewed their packages positively. Satisfaction was much lower in government institutions and very small companies, reflecting differences in budget, process maturity and competition for talent.
For employers, the practical message is that benefits cannot compensate for a persistently uncompetitive salary. The strongest offer combines transparent pay, remote or hybrid flexibility, meaningful leave, health support and benefits employees can actually use.
