Immigrants in Illinois: Top Workplaces to Consider

If you're an immigrant looking for a job in the State of Illinois, we have good news: there are tons of opportunities in the state. Immigrants play a vital role in Illinois' economy, contributing significantly to many of its fastest-growing industries.

In 2024, Illinois experienced a population growth of over 67,000 residents, driven largely by new international migrants. This increase helped strengthen the state’s workforce and fill critical positions across healthcare, logistics, and technology.

Immigrants now hold about 18.6% of Illinois jobs, even though they represent only 17.7% of the total working-age population. That means immigrants are participating in the labor force at a higher rate than native-born residents, proving how essential they are to the state’s economic success.

Beyond their labor contributions, immigrants also play a major financial role. In 2022, undocumented immigrants paid an estimated $1.5 billion in state and local taxes, money that supports schools, public services, and infrastructure across Illinois.

The Chicago metropolitan area, home to nearly 600,000 immigrants in 2024, continues to be a thriving hub for newcomers from all over the world. Immigrants are also making their mark in other regions such as Champaign-Urbana, Rockford, and Peoria, which are seeing steady growth in immigrant entrepreneurship and skilled labor.

With its broad economy and inclusive job market, Illinois remains one of the most promising states for immigrant workers. There are countless ways to grow professionally here.

In this article, we’ll explore the best jobs for immigrants in Illinois, the industries leading the way, top employers that hire immigrant talent, and how tools like MotaWord can help you translate and evaluate your credentials to succeed in your job search. Let’s get right into it!

The Growing Immigrant Workforce in Illinois

Illinois has a large and active immigrant community that powers much of the state’s economy. From hospitals and logistics centers to tech startups and universities, immigrants bring energy, skills, and innovation that keep Illinois moving forward. Many also open small businesses that create local jobs and strengthen neighborhoods.

Immigrants fill critical roles and help bridge labor shortages in key sectors such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and technology. They contribute fresh ideas and global experience, which make Illinois companies more adaptable and competitive in national and international markets.

Today, immigrants make up nearly 18% of the state’s total workforce and are responsible for a significant share of small business growth. In fact, immigrant entrepreneurs own about 27% of all small businesses in Illinois, creating thousands of jobs in areas like retail, transportation, construction, and food services. These businesses don’t just provide employment; they also add diversity and resilience to local economies.

The impact of immigrant workers is seen across Illinois, from large urban centers to smaller cities. Chicago continues to be the state’s largest immigrant hub, home to nearly 600,000 foreign-born residents, while communities such as Rockford, Peoria, and Champaign-Urbana are experiencing steady increases in immigrant populations. This spread of immigrant talent supports regional development and keeps local economies vibrant.

Economically, immigrants are responsible for billions in annual contributions to Illinois’ GDP. Their labor supports essential services, boosts state and local tax revenue, and helps maintain population growth at a time when many other Midwestern states are shrinking. According to the Migration Policy Institute, foreign-born residents in Illinois generated more than $90 billion in economic output in 2024, a figure that underscores how vital they are to the state’s prosperity.

With strong participation in the workforce, high rates of entrepreneurship, and expanding community networks, immigrants continue to shape Illinois’ economic success story. As the state embraces diversity and innovation, it remains one of the most promising places in the U.S. for immigrants to build lasting careers and thriving businesses.

Best Jobs for Immigrants in Illinois

Illinois offers a variety of opportunities for immigrants across many industries. From healthcare to technology, the state provides a wealth of jobs that cater to a broad range of skill sets, education levels, and experience. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your career, there’s a place for you in Illinois’ dynamic job market.

High-Demand Occupations

Some of the best jobs for immigrants in Illinois are in high-demand sectors that require specialized skills. These industries are growing and constantly searching for qualified workers, offering great job security and career development opportunities.

• Healthcare Support: Positions in healthcare are some of the most accessible and in-demand roles for immigrants. Jobs like nursing assistants, home health aides, and medical records specialists are crucial to Illinois’ healthcare system. The state continues to see a shortage of healthcare workers, making this sector a top choice for immigrant job seekers. According to the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES), healthcare support roles are expected to grow by 15% by 2026, adding thousands of new jobs to the market.

• Logistics and Warehousing: Illinois is a major transportation hub in the U.S., and the logistics and warehousing industry offers numerous job opportunities. Immigrants can find roles in areas such as forklift operation, warehouse management, inventory control, and shipping/receiving. With the rise of e-commerce, demand for logistics has been soaring. In fact, the industry is expected to grow by 10% over the next five years, providing long-term job prospects for immigrants.

• Information Technology and Data Services: The technology sector in Illinois, particularly in the Chicago metro area, is booming. Immigrants with skills in software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, and cloud computing are in high demand. Companies in the tech industry are continuously seeking qualified workers. According to the Illinois Innovation Index, the state’s tech sector is expanding at a rate of 6% annually, making IT jobs an excellent career path for immigrants with the right skill set.

• Advanced Manufacturing and Skilled Trades: Skilled trades and manufacturing jobs are another great opportunity for immigrants. Illinois is home to many manufacturing plants, especially in cities like Rockford, Peoria, and Decatur. Positions such as machinists, welders, and production workers are constantly in demand. The industry is expected to see a growth of 4% by 2026, particularly in advanced manufacturing, where technology and automation play a larger role.

• Customer Operations and Bilingual Services: As Illinois is home to a diverse population, bilingual customer service roles are highly sought after. Immigrants fluent in Spanish, Polish, Arabic, and other languages have an edge in this sector. Customer support representatives, call center agents, and sales associates who can communicate with a wide range of customers are always in demand. These roles offer flexibility and opportunities for growth, especially for those with language skills.

Jobs for New Immigrants in Illinois

If you're a newcomer to Illinois, there are plenty of entry-level positions that offer opportunities for career growth and skill development. Many employers understand that immigrants may need time to adjust to a new environment, and they offer training programs, onboarding, and language support to help you succeed.

Entry-level roles such as food service workers, construction laborers, retail associates, and hospitality staff are all accessible to new immigrants. These jobs provide valuable work experience and a way to enter the job market while improving language skills and learning about the local culture. Many employers offer structured training programs that allow employees to move up within the company.

For immigrants with educational qualifications from abroad, some roles may require credential recognition or additional training. This opens up additional career opportunities, especially for those in fields like engineering, medicine, and education.

Reinforcing Opportunity

Illinois offers diverse jobs for immigrants at every career stage. There are plenty of options. The state’s job market is inclusive, with growing sectors that welcome immigrants with different backgrounds, experiences, and languages.

Supportive state policies also make it easier for immigrants to find jobs and advance in their careers. For instance, the Illinois WorkNet system provides resources like job search assistance, career counseling, and training programs, all of which can help immigrants navigate their new career paths. Additionally, many companies in Illinois have adopted inclusive hiring practices, offering opportunities to immigrants regardless of their country of origin.

Top Industries in Illinois for Immigrant Workers

Illinois has one of the most diverse and resilient economies in the Midwest, offering immigrants strong job opportunities across a wide range of sectors. From large cities like Chicago to smaller hubs such as Rockford and Peoria, industries continue to grow and welcome skilled, bilingual, and motivated workers.

• Healthcare and Social Services: Healthcare remains one of the state’s largest and fastest-growing industries. Immigrants play essential roles as nurses, aides, technicians, and caregivers. Community health and social services also value cultural understanding and language skills, making these fields especially welcoming for newcomers.

• Manufacturing and Logistics: Illinois is a national leader in manufacturing and logistics, with opportunities in production, maintenance, and quality control. Immigrants are vital in these sectors, supporting warehouses, transportation networks, and supply chains that keep goods moving across the country.

• Technology: The state’s tech industry is expanding quickly, especially in the Chicago metro area. Immigrants with skills in software development, cybersecurity, and data analytics are in high demand. Illinois’ growing tech hubs continue to offer well-paying, future-focused careers.

• Education and Public Services: Schools and local governments increasingly need bilingual educators, administrative staff, and cultural liaisons. Immigrants are helping meet this demand by connecting diverse communities with educational and public resources.

• Agriculture and Food Processing: Immigrants have long supported Illinois’s agriculture and food industries. Jobs in production, packaging, and food distribution provide steady work and opportunities for skill development, helping maintain one of the nation’s top agricultural economies.

Illinois continues to create inclusive job opportunities across all skill levels. With a strong economy and diverse workforce, the state remains one of the best places for immigrants to find stability, growth, and long-term success.

Top Employers in Illinois Hiring Immigrants

Illinois continues to attract global talent, offering thousands of opportunities across technology, finance, education, and manufacturing. Many of the state’s largest employers actively sponsor work visas and maintain strong diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. These companies provide stable, well-paying jobs and offer professional pathways for immigrants seeking long-term careers in Illinois.

Top 10 Employers in Illinois for Immigrants

1. Ernst & Young (EY)

   • Industry: Accounting, Consulting, and Professional Services
   • Most common positions: Financial analysts, consultants, and technology advisors
   • Interesting fact: EY’s “Global NextGen” program supports international employees through mentorship and leadership development.
   • Why it’s great for immigrants: Offers career mobility, international transfers, and an inclusive global culture.

2. Cognizant Technology Solutions

   • Industry: Information Technology and Consulting
   • Most common positions: Software engineers, data analysts, IT project managers
   • Interesting fact: Employs professionals from more than 50 nationalities in Illinois offices.
   • Why it’s great for immigrants: Provides visa sponsorship and professional development for tech specialists.

3. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

   • Industry: IT and Business Services
   • Most common positions: Software developers, systems engineers, QA analysts
   • Interesting fact: TCS is one of the largest sponsors of H-1B visas in the U.S.
   • Why it’s great for immigrants: Offers global mobility and long-term employment stability.

4. Capgemini

   • Industry: Consulting and Technology
   • Most common positions: Data engineers, cloud architects, and IT consultants
   • Interesting fact: Operates a “Return to Work” program that supports international professionals re-entering the workforce.
   • Why it’s great for immigrants: Encourages career advancement through technical training and mentorship.

5. DFS Corporate Services

   • Industry: Financial and Business Services
   • Most common positions: Business analysts, developers, and corporate strategists
   • Interesting fact: Known for strong employee benefits and internal career mobility.
   • Why it’s great for immigrants: Offers a structured work environment with opportunities for professional growth.

6. University of Chicago

   • Industry: Higher Education and Research
   • Most common positions: Research associates, professors, and administrative staff
   • Interesting fact: Hosts hundreds of international scholars and students each year through academic sponsorship programs.
   • Why it’s great for immigrants: Provides visa assistance, academic resources, and a multicultural community.

7. Northwestern University

   • Industry: Higher Education
   • Most common positions: Research scientists, lecturers, and support staff
   • Interesting fact: Operates the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) to support foreign employees and their families.
   • Why it’s great for immigrants: Offers stable employment and access to university benefits and academic growth.

8. Grandison Management

   • Industry: Staffing and Talent Management
   • Most common positions: Recruitment specialists, HR coordinators, and training consultants
   • Interesting fact: Focuses on placing skilled international professionals in healthcare and IT roles.
   • Why it’s great for immigrants: Provides visa guidance and career placement for foreign workers.

9. Infosys

   • Industry: IT and Consulting
   • Most common positions: Software developers, QA engineers, and technology consultants
   • Interesting fact: One of the world’s largest tech employers with extensive global operations.
   • Why it’s great for immigrants: Supports employee reskilling and professional certification programs.

10. Accenture

    • Industry: Consulting, Digital, and Technology Services
    • Most common positions: Technology consultants, project managers, and AI specialists
    • Interesting fact: Ranked as one of the most inclusive companies globally for workplace diversity.
    • Why it’s great for immigrants: Offers global mobility, strong DEI initiatives, and language support programs.

Additional Notable Employers (Ranks 11–20)

11. University of Illinois: Major research institution with international faculty and academic sponsorships.
12. Caterpillar: Engineering and manufacturing leader offering stable, skilled trades and engineering roles.
13. Rivian Automotive Electric vehicle manufacturer expanding its Illinois workforce with technical and engineering positions.
14. Deloitte Consulting: Global consulting firm with strong visa sponsorship programs and leadership training.
15. Discover Products: Financial services company recognized for diversity hiring and hybrid work opportunities.
16. IBM: Leading tech innovator with numerous IT and consulting roles available to global professionals.
17. The Northern Trust: Financial institution known for competitive pay and international hiring programs.
18. HCL America: IT service provider employing many skilled immigrants in development and data management roles.
19. PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Advisory Services: Offers consulting roles with strong DEI and global inclusion efforts.
20. AbbVie: Global biopharmaceutical company with research and technical career paths for immigrant professionals.

These top 20 employers in Illinois demonstrate strong demand for global talent and provide jobs for immigrants in Illinois with real opportunities for career growth, stability, and advancement across multiple industries.

For more information on H-1B visa sponsorship trends and top employers in Illinois, visit the 2025 H-1B Report to explore trends across different industries and states.

MotaWord: A Bridge to Professional Success for Immigrants

At MotaWord, we understand how important clear communication and verified credentials are when applying for jobs in a new country. For many immigrants, the job search process can feel overwhelming, especially when employers require translated documents or proof of international education. That is where we come in.

We are a collaborative translation and credential evaluation platform designed to help immigrants present their qualifications clearly and professionally to employers in Illinois. Our goal is to make sure your skills, experience, and education are understood and valued just as they should be.

We offer professional translations for resumes, cover letters, diplomas, and certificates for applications to companies that hire immigrants in Illinois. Whether you are applying in healthcare, technology, education, or another field, our network of expert translators ensures every document is accurate, polished, and ready for review. If you would like a simple place to start, check out our post about CV translation to learn more about how it can help you.

We also provide credential evaluation support. Many immigrants arrive with international degrees or professional certifications that are not immediately recognized in the United States. We help bridge that gap by presenting your qualifications in a format that employers can easily understand. Learn more on our academic evaluation services page.

We take pride in offering a fast, reliable, and affordable service that helps immigrants save time and apply with confidence. Accurate translations reduce delays and confusion during hiring. Properly evaluated credentials build credibility and open more job opportunities in Illinois.

At MotaWord, we believe in empowering immigrants to showcase their full potential. We make sure that your hard work, education, and experience are recognized so you can focus on what matters most: building your career and future in Illinois.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can immigrants work in Illinois?

Yes. With proper work authorization, immigrants in Illinois can work in almost every sector of the state’s economy. Immigrants contribute to industries that value bilingualism, global experience, and multicultural perspectives, including healthcare, logistics, technology, and education. As long as you have the necessary employment authorization, such as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), green card, or work visa, you can legally work and build a career in Illinois.

2. What are the best jobs for immigrants in Illinois?

Some of the best jobs for immigrants in Illinois are found in industries that continue to experience high demand. These include healthcare support roles, logistics and warehousing, information technology, advanced manufacturing, and customer operations. Illinois offers job options for all skill levels, from entry-level opportunities to specialized professional careers.

3. Which companies hire immigrants in Illinois?

A wide range of employers in Illinois, including hospitals, universities, logistics companies, and manufacturers, actively hire immigrants. Top employers like Ernst & Young, Capgemini, Accenture, and the University of Chicago are among those that sponsor international professionals and support diversity through inclusive hiring practices.

4. Are there jobs for new immigrants in Illinois?

Yes. Many employers offer jobs for new immigrants in Illinois that include training, mentorship, and onboarding support to help newcomers adjust to the workplace. Entry-level positions in retail, hospitality, food service, and logistics are common starting points, and many organizations provide English-language or professional development programs to support growth.

5. How can translation services help immigrants find work?

Translation and credential evaluation services play a key role in helping immigrants succeed in the job market. Platforms like MotaWord translate and evaluate essential documents such as resumes, diplomas, and certificates, ensuring that foreign credentials are clearly understood by employers in Illinois. This helps immigrants present their qualifications accurately and improves their chances of getting hired.

Moving Forward With Opportunity

Immigrants play a vital role in Illinois’ continued growth and success. Across every industry, from healthcare and education to technology and manufacturing, they bring fresh ideas, dedication, and global experience that strengthen communities and drive innovation. Illinois’s welcoming approach, strong economy, and focus on diversity make it one of the best places in the United States to build a stable and rewarding career.

With supportive employers, growing industries, and valuable resources like MotaWord, newcomers have real opportunities to succeed. Whether you are just arriving or have lived in Illinois for years, there are clear paths to career advancement and professional recognition. Translating your credentials, gaining local experience, and connecting with inclusive organizations can open doors to meaningful and lasting employment.

As Illinois continues to grow as a diverse and forward-thinking state, immigrants remain at the heart of its success story. For those ready to take the next step, the state offers not just jobs, but genuine opportunities to thrive, contribute, and build a future filled with promise.