Illinois Career Planning & Job Market

Leverage Illinois's diverse economy and strong industry connections to launch your successful career in manufacturing, technology, agriculture, and beyond.

Illinois's Thriving Industries

Explore the major industry sectors that drive Illinois's economy and create opportunities for college graduates across the state.

Stable Growth
Manufacturing & Engineering

Strong manufacturing base with advanced engineering and technology companies

Median Salary Range
$60,000 - $110,000

Major Employers:

Boeing
Caterpillar
Abbott Laboratories
Deere & Company

Common Roles:

Manufacturing Engineer
Operations Manager
Quality Assurance
Process Engineer
High Growth
Technology & Innovation

Growing tech sector with major companies and innovative startups in Chicago

Median Salary Range
$70,000 - $130,000

Major Employers:

Google
Microsoft
Salesforce
Groupon

Common Roles:

Software Engineer
Data Scientist
Product Manager
UX Designer
Moderate Growth
Agriculture & Food Sciences

Leading agricultural state with food processing and agribusiness opportunities

Median Salary Range
$55,000 - $95,000

Major Employers:

Archer Daniels Midland
Tyson Foods
ConAgra Brands
Kraft Heinz

Common Roles:

Agricultural Engineer
Food Scientist
Supply Chain Manager
Sustainability Specialist
Strong Growth
Healthcare & Life Sciences

Major medical centers and pharmaceutical companies driving healthcare innovation

Median Salary Range
$65,000 - $120,000

Major Employers:

Northwestern Medicine
Rush University Medical Center
Advocate Health
Baxter International

Common Roles:

Healthcare Administrator
Clinical Research Coordinator
Biomedical Engineer
Pharmaceutical Sales

Career Development Resources

University Career Centers

Comprehensive career services at leading Illinois universities

Services:

  • Industry partnerships
  • Career coaching
  • Alumni networks
  • Job placement assistance

Key Organizations:

  • UIUC Career Center
  • Northwestern Career Services
  • UChicago Career Advancement
Industry Partnerships

Strong connections between universities and Illinois industries

Services:

  • Corporate partnerships
  • Internship programs
  • Research collaborations
  • Job fairs

Key Organizations:

  • Manufacturing companies
  • Agricultural businesses
  • Healthcare systems
  • Tech companies
Chicago Opportunities

Access to diverse career opportunities in America's third-largest city

Services:

  • Corporate headquarters
  • Startup ecosystem
  • Professional networking
  • Industry events

Key Organizations:

  • Loop business district
  • River North tech hub
  • Medical District
  • Financial exchanges
Regional Networks

Strong Midwest professional networks and industry connections

Services:

  • Professional associations
  • Industry conferences
  • Mentorship programs
  • Alumni connections

Key Organizations:

  • Illinois Technology Association
  • Chicago Chamber of Commerce
  • Industry groups

Illinois Salary Expectations

Bachelor's Degree

Entry-level positions across Illinois industries

$50,000
Early Career
$75,000
Mid Career

Master's Degree

Advanced positions with specialized skills and leadership roles

$65,000
Early Career
$95,000
Mid Career

Engineering/STEM

Engineering, technology, and science careers in Illinois

$60,000
Early Career
$90,000
Mid Career

Business/Management

Business, finance, and management roles across industries

$55,000
Early Career
$85,000
Mid Career

Why Build Your Career in Illinois

Industry Diversity

Diverse economy spanning agriculture, manufacturing, technology, and healthcare.

Chicago Hub

Access to major business center with Fortune 500 companies and startup ecosystem.

Midwest Values

Strong work ethic, community support, and collaborative professional environment.

Getting Started with Career Planning

During College

  • Participate in co-op and internship programs
  • Build network through industry partnerships
  • Develop practical skills through hands-on projects
  • Attend job fairs and networking events

After Graduation

  • Leverage strong Illinois alumni networks
  • Pursue leadership roles in professional organizations
  • Consider advanced degrees at Illinois universities
  • Explore entrepreneurship opportunities in Chicago

Complete Your Illinois College Planning Journey

You've explored all aspects of Illinois college planning. Ready to take the next step?