Illinois Biopharma Job Market Shows Resilience Amid Industry Growth
The pharmaceutical and biotechnology job market in Illinois is demonstrating notable resilience and growth, according to recent data and hiring trends. As the state continues to solidify its position as a key player in the BioMidwest Hotbed, several major companies are actively recruiting talent across various specialties.
Employment Growth and Industry Expansion
Illinois has seen a significant uptick in bioscience employment, with the state boasting 93,402 professionals across 4,926 businesses in 2023. This represents a 7.5% increase in employment since 2019, as reported by BIO and TEConomy Partners in their 2024 data release. The growth trajectory appears to be continuing, with BioSpace data indicating an upward trend in job postings for the first half of 2025 compared to the latter part of 2024.
Key Companies Hiring in Illinois
Several prominent pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies are leading the charge in recruitment efforts across the state:
AbbVie
With over 200 open positions, AbbVie is seeking professionals for roles such as senior scientist II in process chemistry and radiochemistry in North Chicago, IT technical specialist focusing on marketing data in Mettawa, and clinical documentation associate II in Chicago.
Amgen
Amgen has approximately 10 openings, including positions for counsel in global commercial operations in Deerfield, senior associate in marketing for ultra-rare diseases in Evanston, and a senior manager role in competitive intelligence in Deerfield.
Other Notable Employers
CSL, Lundbeck, Novo Nordisk, and Takeda are also actively hiring in Illinois. These companies offer a mix of in-person and remote opportunities, ranging from quality specialists and production engineers to sales and regulatory affairs positions.
Job Market Stability and Remote Work Trends
Despite the challenges faced by many industries, the biopharma job market in Illinois has shown remarkable stability. Job postings on BioSpace for the state have decreased by only 1.7% from June 2024 to June 2025, indicating a relatively steady demand for talent.
The trend towards remote work is evident in the job listings, with companies like Lundbeck and Takeda offering numerous remote positions. This shift provides professionals with increased flexibility and potentially broadens the talent pool for employers.
As the Illinois biopharma sector continues to evolve, it remains an attractive destination for life sciences professionals seeking new opportunities in a growing and dynamic industry.
References
- 6 Companies Hiring in Illinois
Looking for a biopharma job in Illinois? Check out the BioSpace list of six companies hiring life sciences professionals like you.
Explore Further
What are some recent leadership or executive changes within the major companies like AbbVie and Amgen mentioned in the article?
Given the resiliency of the Illinois biopharma job market, have there been any notable layoffs or reductions in workforce at these companies recently?
What is the professional background of the key executives leading the recruitment efforts at these companies in Illinois?
How does the recruitment trend in Illinois compare to personnel changes in the biopharma sector in other BioMidwest regions?
What strategic reasons might be influencing the hiring patterns and personnel changes in these major biopharma companies in Illinois?