Find Jobs for Military Veterans in Illinois

Illinois Job Search for Transitioning and Former JMOs, NCOs, and Enlisted Technicians

Illinois is considered to be a trendsetter both in social and cultural trends, and is seen as encapsulating the heart of the entire U.S. The state encompasses thriving urban centers like Chicago, as well as scenic natural vistas in its rural towns, offering something for everyone.

The Top Industries for Veterans in Illinois

Illinois holds sway in finance, education, and especially manufacturing. Nearly one-half of the state's 5.6 million workers are professionals, skilled technicians, craftspeople or machine operators, all careers that are ideal for veterans and transitioning service members.

Please keep in mind that these jobs represent only a small percentage of the positions we currently have available. If you don't find what you're looking for, it does not mean that we're not hiring in your desired industry or location - be sure to register and a recruiter will be in contact with you about the jobs that are a match for your background, desires and qualifications.

SEARCH ILLINOIS VETERAN JOBS

Search for jobs in Illinois by filtering for paygrade, Degree, Keyword, and Date Posted.

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JOB LISTINGS

Senior Chemist
Company: Orion Talent
Job Ref: # 663524
Date Posted: 1/28/2026 12:00:00 AM
City, State: South Holland, IL
Category: Chemicals
Salary: $70,000 - $80,000

Job Description

The Senior Chemist serves as a cross-functional technical leader responsible for overseeing product innovation, formulation development, quality control protocols, and technical services. This role ensures that all new and existing chemical products meet the highest standards of performance, safety, and consistency across their lifecycle-from bench formulation to field application and production scale-up. The ideal candidate will combine deep chemistry expertise with hands-on quality control experience, supporting internal teams and external customers with actionable solutions and insights. May serve as a technical mentor or informal leader to chemists, QC technicians, and lab staff. Collaborates with managers across R&D, QC, and Production to ensure shared project success.

Key Responsibilities

Research & Development

Lead the formulation and performance development of new chemical products in alignment with company's commercial laundry applications and strategic goals.
Screen and evaluate new raw materials for inclusion in company formulations based on performance, cost-efficiency, and supply chain viability.
Conduct in-depth performance testing and internal benchmarks to ensure product reliability and innovation.
Monitor long-term field performance of new product launches and recommend improvements based on lab and customer feedback.
Create and maintain accurate Methods of Manufacturing for all new products and support production with process standardization.
Collaborate cross-functionally with sales, technical service, and production teams to support product development and rollouts.

Quality Control

Oversee and refine Quality Control protocols for raw materials, in-process batches, and finished products to ensure consistency and compliance with internal specifications.
Work closely with QC personnel to define performance benchmarks, tolerances, and validation procedures for both new and legacy products.
Analyze production batch discrepancies and troubleshoot manufacturing issues in coordination with the QC and production teams.
Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for analytical and physical testing methods, calibration protocols, and lab safety compliance.
Support the QC team in identifying and resolving quality issues through root cause analysis, corrective action planning, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Ensure all QC testing aligns with company's ISO 9001 Quality Management System and applicable regulatory requirements.

Technical Services & Customer Support

Serve as a senior technical expert to internal and external stakeholders, providing guidance on product performance, troubleshooting, and optimization.
Conduct detailed analyses of textiles, chemicals, and water systems to diagnose performance issues and recommend solutions.
Generate professional technical reports summarizing findings from lab analyses, field trials, and customer investigations.
Support field service efforts, including site visits, training, and product performance evaluations at customer facilities.

Laboratory Operations & Corporate Confidentiality

Ensure full operational readiness of R&D and QC labs, including inventory management, instrumentation calibration, and proper documentation practices.
Maintain strict confidentiality of intellectual property, formulas, production processes, and proprietary databases.
Lead lab team efforts in maintaining cleanliness, safety, and ISO-compliant work environments.

Must-Have Skills, Experience, and Education:

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related scientific field (Master's preferred).
Minimum 7-10 years of relevant experience in formulation chemistry, quality control, and/or product development within a manufacturing or industrial setting.
Strong understanding of analytical testing methodologies, laboratory best practices, and chemical product scale-up processes.
Demonstrated experience with ISO 9001 quality systems and regulatory compliance in a laboratory or production environment.
Excellent technical writing, documentation, and communication skills.
Skilled in presenting to large groups and customer audiences with clarity and confidence.

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Mechanical Engineer - Fluid Systems
Company: Orion Talent
Job Ref: # 2224418
Date Posted: 1/9/2026 12:00:00 AM
City, State: South Holland, IL
Category: Chemicals
Salary: $0 - $100,000

Job Description

The Mechanical Engineer – Fluid Systems is responsible for designing, developing, and supporting fluid handling, pumping, and chemical injection systems used in industrial and commercial laundry applications. This role supports our mission to provide high-performance chemical delivery equipment, innovative solutions, and reliable technical support to our customers. The engineer will work closely with Manufacturing, R&D, Sales, and Field Service teams to ensure our systems are safe, efficient, and aligned with customer needs and industry requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Engineering
Design and develop fluid handling systems, including pumps, valves, tubing, flow meters, and chemical dispensing equipment.
Perform system calculations related to flow rates, pressure drops, chemical dosing accuracy, and pump sizing.
Create engineering drawings, schematics, and specifications using CAD tools (SolidWorks or similar).
Develop and revise Bills of Materials (BOMs), assembly instructions, and system layouts.
Evaluate materials of construction for chemical compatibility and long-term reliability.
Product Development & Innovation
Support new equipment development, enhancements, and improvements for chemical injection and automation systems.
Collaborate with R&D on integrating controls, sensors, and monitoring technologies.
Conduct testing and prototyping of components and assemblies.
Assist in developing standardized designs for improved manufacturability and field serviceability.
Technical Support
Provide engineering support to Field Service Technicians and Sales team for system troubleshooting, installations, and customer-specific applications.
Assist in root-cause analysis and corrective actions for equipment or system performance issues.
Develop technical documentation, manuals, and training materials for internal teams.

Quality & Compliance

Ensure systems meet relevant safety standards and internal quality requirements.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives aligned with quality and reliability expectations.

Must-Have Skills, Experience, and Education:

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline experience.
2-5 years of experience in mechanical design, fluid systems, or equipment engineering.
Strong understanding of fluid dynamics, pump systems, chemical/fluid dosing, and pressure/flow calculations.
Experience with 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks preferred).
Knowledge of manufacturing methods, mechanical components, and system integration.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical communication skills.

Nice-to-Have Skills, Experience, and Education:

Experience with chemical handling equipment or industrial laundry systems.
Familiarity with automation components, sensors, PLC interfaces, or fluid monitoring technology.
Experience supporting field installations or technical service environments.
Knowledge of chemical compatibility and industrial safety standards.

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Reactor Operator
Company: Orion Talent
Job Ref: # 5371414
Date Posted: 12/10/2025 12:00:00 AM
City, State: Clinton, IL
Category: Energy
Salary: $132,000 - $136,000

Job Description

Reactor Operator/Senior Reactor Operator – Initial Licensing Trainee attends initial certification class to attain their Senior Reactor Operator License from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Upon certification they will be fully licensed to supervise the operations of the reactor control room.Candidates attending class with the intent of attaining an SRO License will complete a Fundamentals Phase, a Simulator Certification, acquiring SRO status, and attainment an NRC SRO License.This program will consist of a combination of study time, field time, and on the job training to attain the license status.Project work, outage assignments, or duties may be assigned to support the site operations.

Nice-to-Have Skills, Experience, and Education:

Navy Nuke Background is the ideal fit
18 months position equivalent to Reactor Operator (or Supervisor) at a military reactor (Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator, Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion
Plant Watch Supervisor)
BS or Technical qualification in Engineering, Physics is preferred
Experience working with electronics, testing equipment, and mechanical systems
Understanding and knowledge of the operation of a reactor or other radiation producing devices

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Director of Nuclear Operations
Company: Orion Talent
Job Ref: # 9298913
Date Posted: 11/20/2025 12:00:00 AM
City, State: Clinton, IL
Category: Energy
Salary: $210,001 - $240,001

Job Description

Seeking an experienced nuclear operations leader to guide station performance, oversee licensed personnel, and ensure alignment with regulatory and safety expectations. This director-level role is central to operational decision-making, long-range planning, and leadership development within the station.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

Direct daily operations and long-term operations strategy for a dual-unit BWR station.
Oversee licensed operators and operations supervision teams.
Ensure consistent execution of procedures, standards, and human performance expectations.

Regulatory & Licensing Oversight

Manage operator licensing programs, including training, requalification, and exam readiness.
Maintain strong working relationships with NRC inspectors and support all regulatory inspections and audits.
Ensure compliance with NRC requirements and station policies.

Team & Talent Development

Mentor supervisors, managers, and licensed staff; support succession planning for key operational roles.
Promote a performance-focused culture centered on safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Support recruitment and development efforts, including outreach to qualified military veterans.

Performance, Reliability & Risk Management

Own operational metrics such as equipment reliability, scram performance, and procedure adherence.
Lead or support root-cause evaluations and corrective actions.
Coordinate closely with Maintenance, Engineering, RP, and Outage Management to optimize station performance.

Must-Have Skills, Experience, and Education:

Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license (held previously or currently; waiver unlikely but not removed as a requirement).
8–10+ years of nuclear industry experience, with at least 4 years in senior supervisory or management roles at a commercial plant.
Demonstrated experience managing licensed personnel and leading operations organizations.
Strong understanding of NRC regulations and operational decision-making processes.
Effective communication and leadership skills for cross-functional environments.

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Maintenance Technician
Company: Orion Talent
Job Ref: # 3980733
Date Posted: 10/16/2025 12:00:00 AM
City, State: Downers Grove, IL
Category: Food
Salary: $34 - $38

Job Description

The Industrial Maintenance Technician is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing plant production machinery and equipment. The role requires strong mechanical and electrical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently to ensure safe, efficient operations.

Shift: 12-hour Night Shift | 2-2-3 Schedule (Work every other weekend)
Hours: 5:45 PM – 6:00 AM

Key Responsibilities

Maintain, repair, and troubleshoot production machinery and industrial equipment.
Read schematics, ladder logic, and technical manuals to diagnose issues.
Use hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment safely and accurately.
Perform precise measurements and tests to meet operational standards.
Operate forklifts, scissor lifts, and other industrial equipment.
Communicate equipment status and maintenance needs clearly with team members.
Submit daily reports using Microsoft Office, SAP, and email.
Follow safety programs including HAACP, GMP, and SQF.

Must-Have Skills, Experience, and Education:

High school diploma or GED required.
Minimum 2 years industrial maintenance experience in manufacturing preferred.
Skilled with hand tools, power tools, and measurement instruments.
Strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

Stand, walk, climb, kneel, crouch, crawl regularly.
Lift up to 50 lbs; push/pull up to 1500 lbs.
Work near moving mechanical parts, vibration, and industrial noise.
Use PPE including safety glasses, gloves, earplugs, and approved footwear.

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Senior Reactor Operator
Company: Orion Talent
Job Ref: # 4132745
Date Posted: 7/23/2025 12:00:00 AM
City, State: Decatur, IL
Category: Energy
Salary: $132,000 - $136,000

Job Description

Join the Initial Licensing Training Program to obtain your NRC Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) License and qualify to supervise reactor control room operations. The program combines classroom study, simulator certification, field work, and on-the-job training. Additional duties may include project assignments or outage support during training.

Must-Have Skills, Experience, and Education:

Navy Nuclear background strongly preferred
Minimum 18 months in an equivalent military reactor role (e.g., PPWS, EOOW, EWS, Reactor Operator)
BS or technical degree in Engineering or Physics preferred
Experience with electronics, testing equipment, and mechanical systems
Understanding of reactor operations or similar radiation-producing devices

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Industrial Electrician
Company: Finkl Steel
Job Ref: # 1834219
Date Posted: 7/8/2025 12:00:00 AM
City, State: Chicago, IL
Category: Building Materials
Salary: $36 - $42

Job Description

About
Company:

Finkl Steel is
one of the world’s leading manufacturers of forging die steels, plastic
injection mold steels, die casting tool steels, forged alloy bars, and custom
open die forgings. Finkl Steel is a member of international Swiss Steel Group
and manufactures products at three production facilities in Chicago, Houston,
Detroit and Sorel (CAN). We sell our products in North America and to 18
countries worldwide. With more than 100 patents, our steel formulations and
steelmaking technologies set worldwide standards. In recognition of Finkl
Steel’s product quality, our facilities were the first in America to receive
ISO 9000 registration.

Finkl Steel
provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for
employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without
regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status,
genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or
expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local
laws.

About the
Role:

The Industrial
Electrician plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient operation of
electrical systems within the steel manufacturing plant. This position involves
installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical equipment and systems, which
are vital for production processes. The Industrial Electrician will
troubleshoot electrical issues, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal
performance of machinery. Additionally, they will adhere to safety protocols
and regulations to maintain a safe working environment. Ultimately, the success
of this role contributes to the overall productivity and reliability of
manufacturing operations.

Qualifications:

· High
School Diploma or GED, Electrician Schooling/Apprenticeship a plus

· Fluent
in English, oral & written; any other language a plus

· 2+ years’
experience in comparable roles preferred

Responsibilities:

· Responsible
for troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of industrial equipment (AC/DC
overhead cranes, AC wound rotor/DC motors, AC/DC drives, Hydraulic systems
sensors and controls, large machine tool (ie. Lathe) drives, controls, sensors,
and actuators PLC I/O).

· The
position is a member of either the Machine Tool or Hot Works Maintenance teams
and will be required to walk, stand, bend, squat, work from heights, navigate
uneven surfaces, and lift up to 50 pounds in a non-climate controlled
industrial environment.

· All
Electricians will be expected to follow all Finkl policies and procedures,
assist with safety and housekeeping activities, and perform all tasks assigned
to them by their supervisor.

· Must
be willing to work any shift (8 hour no rotation) and overtime.

· Ability
to react to changes in job responsibility and current tasks as needed.

· Strong
problem-solving skills to get to root cause of breakdown and repair.

· Proactive,
logical, and pragmatic philosophy to solving problems.

· Ability
to communicate with supervision.

· Self-motivated

· Professional
work ethics and an ability to work alone or in a team.

· Must
pass a drug screen and have a clean background.

Our Offer:

· Extra
$1.00 for working 2nd shift & extra $2.00 for working 3rd shift

· Medical,
Dental, and Vision benefits

· STD
and Life Insurance