🌟 Join Us at the State of Illinois Career Fair!
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 • 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Hegewisch Community Center
13323 S. Green Bay Ave., Chicago, IL 60633
The State of Illinois is hosting one of the largest hiring events of the year — and YOU are invited! Whether you’re exploring new opportunities or ready to take the next step in your career, this event is your gateway to a wide variety of high-quality state jobs.
We’re bringing together 25 to 30 State Agencies and additional employers, all hiring for positions in healthcare, public safety, administration, human services, transportation, corrections, information technology, and more.
Jobseekers register here: Click here to register
🌐 Why Attend the State of Illinois Career Fair?
The State of Illinois offers competitive pay, excellent benefits, career mobility, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and work‑life balance. State employment spans critical service sectors such as public safety, human services, public health, engineering, IT, and education. [work4.illinois.gov]
You’ll be able to:
✔ Meet agency recruiters directly
✔ Learn how to navigate the State’s hiring process
✔ Explore dozens of immediate openings
✔ Apply onsite for various positions
🔎 Featured Current Career Opportunities in Illinois
Below are some real, recently posted State of Illinois employment opportunities and salary ranges. These roles reflect the kinds of jobs being actively recruited across state agencies.
1. Corrections Clerk III – Illinois Department of Corrections
Location: Crest Hill, IL
Salary: Starting at $5,726/month, full range $5,726–$8,209/month [ziprecruiter.com]
About the Role:
This position interviews individuals in custody about time calculations, supervises release processes, and supports record office operations.
2. Corrections Treatment Senior Security Supervisor – IL Department of Corrections
Location: Joliet, IL
Salary: Starting at $8,643/month, full range $8,643–$12,886/month [adzuna.com]
About the Role:
Provides leadership and oversight for security operations at the Joliet Treatment Center.
3. Correctional Nursing Positions (Statewide)
Illinois continues to hire nurses across multiple correctional and clinical facilities.
Average Salary for a Correctional Nurse in Illinois:
- $68,642/year average
- Range: $55,143 – $84,175/year depending on experience and specialization
citeturn1search17
Additional Verified Salary Snapshot:
- RN roles in correctional settings commonly offer $41–$53 per hour in Illinois.
[adzuna.com]
4. Corrections Nurse II – DOC Graham Correctional Center
Location: Hillsboro, IL
Salary Range: $7,642 – $10,390/month
[indeed.com]
5. Chief Nurse – State of Illinois (Chicago)
Salary: $10,000 – $12,000/month
[indeed.com]
6. Registered Nurse II – State of Illinois (Park Forest)
Salary: $7,172 – $9,752/month
[indeed.com]
The State of Illinois is also hiring for several entry-level administrative roles, perfect for individuals looking to begin a career in public service. Current openings include Office Associate positions with DCFS in multiple cities, Administrative Assistant I roles (starting at $5,637/month), Day Care Licensing Team Clerical roles, and administrative support roles within the Department of Corrections and Illinois Senate offices. These positions offer full benefits, career mobility, and paid training.
✅ Entry-Level Administrative Jobs with the State of Illinois
1. Office Associate (Administrative Support) – Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS)
DCFS is actively hiring Office Associates (Class Title: OFFICE ASSOCIATE – 30015) across multiple Illinois locations including DeKalb, Maywood, Mt. Vernon, and Springfield.
These positions provide clerical support such as document processing, data entry, customer service, and office coordination — all suitable for entry-level candidates.
[illinois.j…bs2web.com]
2. Administrative Assistant I – State of Illinois (Chicago & Springfield)
The State regularly hires Administrative Assistant I roles, which require strong organization, communication, and office skills but remain accessible to entry‑level applicants.
Examples of recent postings:
- Administrative Assistant I – Chicago, IL
- Salary: $5,637/month starting; range up to $8,026/month
- Agency: Criminal Justice Information Authority
[linkedin.com]
- Administrative Assistant I – Springfield, IL (Hybrid)
- Salary: $5,637–$8,026/month
- Agency: State of Illinois
citeturn3search25
These roles typically involve scheduling, record‑keeping, customer service, and supporting agency leadership.
3. Day Care Licensing Team Clerical – DCFS
A great entry-level role involving filing, processing licensing documents, managing phone calls, and assisting case teams.
Locations hiring:
- DeKalb, IL
- Maywood, IL
- Mt. Vernon, IL
- Additional statewide openings
[illinois.j…bs2web.com]
4. Office Associate – Illinois Department of Corrections (DOC)
The DOC has several entry‑level Office Associate positions such as Records Office / Writ Coordinator or clinical/field services support roles.
These positions support prison operations, handle records, manage files, and assist departments with administrative tasks.
5. Administrative Assistant – Illinois Senate (Entry‑Level Legislative Support)
- Salary: Around $50,000/year
- Location: Springfield, IL
This role supports Senate offices with scheduling, document management, and constituent communication.
💼 Where to Apply for State Jobs
Applying for Illinois state opportunities is easier than ever.
Step 1 — Create an Applicant Profile
All applicants must apply online through the State of Illinois employment portal:
👉 https://illinois.jobs2web.com
or
👉 https://work4.illinois.gov [work4.illinois.gov], [careers.illinois.gov]
Step 2 — Upload a detailed resume
- Include all experience, licenses, certifications, and skills
- Upload transcripts or licenses when requested
[careers.illinois.gov]
Step 3 — Search and Apply to Positions
You can browse current openings here:
📌 https://careers.illinois.gov/current-job-openings.html
[careers.illinois.gov]
🎉 Mark Your Calendar!
The State of Illinois Career Fair is your opportunity to connect directly with hiring managers, learn about state benefits, and take the next step toward a rewarding public-sector career.
📅 Tuesday, May 12, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Hegewisch Community Center (Chicago)
Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a career changer, or a recent graduate — there’s a place for you with the State of Illinois.
Click here to register
Frequently asked questions
FAQ – State of Illinois Career Fair
1. Do I need to register to attend the career fair?
Most State‑related hiring events encourage pre‑registration, but many also allow walk‑ins. Check the event listing for any required RSVP details. [illinois.gov]
2. What should I bring to the career fair?
Bring several copies of your résumé, a photo ID, and any relevant documents such as transcripts, licenses, or certifications—these are also required when applying for State positions online. [dhs.state.il.us]
3. How do I apply for a job with the State of Illinois?
All job applications must be submitted online. Create an account, complete your candidate profile, upload a detailed resume, and apply for each posting individually at Work.Illinois.gov or Illinois.jobs2web.com. [careers.illinois.gov]
4. What documents should I upload when applying?
Upload a detailed résumé (longer is fine), transcripts, licenses, certifications, and any other required documents listed in the posting. Be sure to save your application frequently while completing it. [careers.illinois.gov]
5. How do I create or access my online profile?
If you are a new applicant, go to the State’s career site and select “Create an Account.” Existing users should log in using their username and password. Passwords must be at least 12 characters and meet security requirements. [governmentjobs.com]
6. I forgot my username or password. What should I do?
Use the “Forgot Username” or “Reset Password” links on the login page. The system will send recovery information to the email on file. If you no longer have access to that email, you must contact applicant support for identity verification. [governmentjobs.com]
7. Will I need to take an exam for State of Illinois jobs?
Some positions require in‑person exams. If an exam is needed, CMS will contact you to schedule an appointment. Testing centers are located in Chicago, Springfield, Champaign, Marion, and Rockford. Photo ID is required. [dhs.state.il.us]
8. How long does it take to hear back after applying?
The review process may take 60–75 days from the application’s closing date. You can check your application status anytime by logging into your profile and selecting “Jobs Applied.” [dhs.state.il.us]
9. Can I get help preparing for State applications or interviews?
Yes. CMS Career Counselors offer résumé guidance, career counseling, and help identifying positions you may qualify for. Virtual support is available. [careers.illinois.gov]
10. Where can I find current job openings?
Visit Work4Illinois.gov, Work.Illinois.gov, or Illinois.jobs2web.com to browse open positions across State agencies. These sites contain updated listings and application resources. [work4.illinois.gov]
11. Are job fairs useful for getting hired by the State?
Yes! Career fairs allow you to meet State recruiters, explore job paths, ask questions, and learn how to navigate the application portal. In addition, statewide job fairs and hiring events are listed through IDES and IllinoisJobLink. [ides.illinois.gov]
12. Can I attend if I’m new to the job market or changing careers?
Absolutely. Illinois offers career exploration tools, training programs, and support services through Illinois workNet and American Job Centers—ideal for job seekers at any stage. [ides.illinois.gov]
click here to register
