Illinois is a hub of opportunity for graduates entering the workforce, offering diverse career paths in industries like aerospace, healthcare, technology, and financial services. With globally recognized corporations and institutions headquartered in the state, Illinois provides a platform for professional growth and stability.
Using CareerDNA data, we’ve ranked the best employers for graduates in Illinois based on their Career Catalyst scores, which measure career growth potential, and two-year retention rates, which reflect employee satisfaction. Whether you’re seeking innovation, leadership development, or career stability, these companies stand out as excellent choices.
Top Employers in Illinois for Graduates
- United Airlines
- Career Catalyst Score: 11.50 (highest in Illinois)
- Two-Year Probability: 59.95%
United Airlines leads the state in Career Catalyst potential, offering graduates opportunities in aviation, engineering, and customer experience. Its high retention rate reflects a workplace culture that values its employees.
- Caterpillar Inc.
- Career Catalyst Score: 10.38
- Two-Year Probability: 52.25%
A global leader in construction and mining equipment, Caterpillar provides graduates with career paths in engineering, manufacturing, and corporate roles. Its high Catalyst score highlights strong opportunities for professional development.
- Northern Trust
- Career Catalyst Score: 10.08
- Two-Year Probability: 54.44%
As a financial services leader, Northern Trust offers graduates roles in wealth management, technology, and operations, blending growth potential with job stability.
- Boeing
- Career Catalyst Score: 7.10
- Two-Year Probability: 55.30%
Boeing provides graduates with opportunities to work on cutting-edge aerospace projects, offering roles in engineering, technology, and innovation.
- Abbott Laboratories
- Career Catalyst Score: 5.88
- Two-Year Probability: 17.78%
A leader in healthcare and life sciences, Abbott Laboratories offers graduates opportunities in research, development, and global healthcare innovation.
- Walgreens Boots Alliance
- Career Catalyst Score: 5.86
- Two-Year Probability: 46.55%
Headquartered in Illinois, Walgreens Boots Alliance provides career opportunities in retail, supply chain, and corporate roles. Its Catalyst score reflects strong growth potential in healthcare and retail sectors.
- Google
- Career Catalyst Score: 5.66
- Two-Year Probability: 32.05%
Google’s Chicago office offers graduates opportunities in technology, marketing, and data analytics, making it a great choice for innovation-focused individuals.
- University of Illinois
- Career Catalyst Score: 3.06
- Two-Year Probability: 46.22%
One of the state’s premier academic institutions, the University of Illinois provides career-building opportunities in education, research, and administration.
- McDonald's Corporation
- Career Catalyst Score: 2.96
- Two-Year Probability: 65.51% (highest retention rate in the state)
A global leader in fast food, McDonald’s offers graduates career paths in management, marketing, and corporate roles, backed by high employee retention.
- State Farm
- Career Catalyst Score: 2.08
- Two-Year Probability: 26.19%
State Farm provides opportunities in insurance, customer service, and technology, offering a strong foundation for graduates entering the insurance industry.
- Allstate Insurance
- Career Catalyst Score: 0.98
- Two-Year Probability: 43.02%
Allstate offers opportunities for graduates in finance, insurance, and IT roles, making it a steady option for those starting in the industry.
Explore salary benchmarks, career progression opportunities, and jobs tailored to your career goals—all for free at yourcareerdna.com.
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