Growth Jobs in Chicago, IL
Growth jobs in Chicago are concentrated in the Loop, River North, and Fulton Market, where tech platforms, healthcare networks, and consumer brands drive consistent demand for growth talent. Employers hiring right now include Amazon, Kraft Heinz, and ZS Associates. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Work with Us. Change the World.
At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.
There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.
We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.
Job Description
Vice President, Global Growth Director – Defense Prime/OEM Facilities & Vertical Construction
This is a high-impact leadership role within AECOM's Design Practice, responsible for defining and executing the US strategy for engagement with Defense Primes / OEM clients as it pertains to vertical construction, facilities delivery, and architectural and engineering design. This includes manufacturing and final assembly facilities, hangars and MRO facilities, training facilities, SCIF/SAPF and other ICD 705-compliant secure facilities, and program office space delivered at Defense Primes / OEM sites and government installations.
The position carries accountability for client relationships, growth strategy, pipeline development, capture, and delivery performance across AECOM’s Design practice. It combines strategic leadership with hands-on account execution to drive growth, strengthen client partnerships, and deliver consistent performance.
The primary role focuses on the U.S. market, but will also involve interaction with other AECOM regions including the UK, Continental Europe, Middle East, and Australia/New Zealand. This role is focused on Defense Primes / OEM clients (Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, BAE, RTX, etc.) — candidates with hands-on experience delivering vertical construction and facilities projects for these clients, at their own sites or at government-owned/contractor-operated facilities, will be looked upon most favorably. A background that spans a role with defense Primes / OEMs, followed by a career in A&E vertical construction delivery, is an ideal profile for this position.
This position will report to the AECOM’s Global Design Practice SVP, Head of Strategy & Growth, and will work closely with our US DOW Team and global defense leaders across the company.
We welcome applications from candidates who are already performing in a similar role, as well as those who have the experience, capability, and ambition to take the next logical step in their career progression into this position.
Qualifications
- Candidates must have a background in architecture, engineering, or a related A/E discipline with direct delivery experience on vertical construction projects (e.g., building design, building engineering, planning, or program/construction management) for Defense Primes / OEM clients — pure IT, cybersecurity, digital systems integration, or general business development backgrounds without hands-on A&E design or delivery experience will not meet the qualifications for this role.
- BA/BS +20 years’ experience or equivalent, including 4 years of leadership experience
- Due to the nature of the work, U.S. citizenship is required
- Proven experience working with Defense Primes / OEM clients and US DOW agencies on facilities and vertical construction programs (e.g., manufacturing, and final assembly facilities, hangars and MRO facilities, training facilities, SCIF/SAPF facilities, barracks)
- Commercial knowledge of the Defense Primes / OEM clients industry in relation to infrastructure needs, contracts, fees, and industry needs
- Leadership experience operating across geographies and multidisciplinary teams
- Demonstrated success leading accounts, complex pursuits, and multi-region delivery
Preferred background:
- Commercially astute, with executive stakeholder engagement skills
- Industrial background & experience in advanced manufacturing
- Direct project experience on Weapon System Bed downs, SCIF/SAPF or other ICD 705-compliant facilities, training facilities, hangars, MRO facilities, final assembly buildings, or program office space delivered for Defense Primes / OEM clients
Additional Information
- Sponsorship for US employment authorization is not available now or in the future for this position
- Relocation is not available for this position
At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.
Offered compensation will be based on location and individual qualifications. The expected range is $250,000.00 - $325,000.00.
About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.
About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Work with Us. Change the World.
At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.
There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.
We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.
Job Description
Vice President, Global Growth Director – Defense Prime/OEM Facilities & Vertical Construction
This is a high-impact leadership role within AECOM's Design Practice, responsible for defining and executing the US strategy for engagement with Defense Primes / OEM clients as it pertains to vertical construction, facilities delivery, and architectural and engineering design. This includes manufacturing and final assembly facilities, hangars and MRO facilities, training facilities, SCIF/SAPF and other ICD 705-compliant secure facilities, and program office space delivered at Defense Primes / OEM sites and government installations.
The position carries accountability for client relationships, growth strategy, pipeline development, capture, and delivery performance across AECOM’s Design practice. It combines strategic leadership with hands-on account execution to drive growth, strengthen client partnerships, and deliver consistent performance.
The primary role focuses on the U.S. market, but will also involve interaction with other AECOM regions including the UK, Continental Europe, Middle East, and Australia/New Zealand. This role is focused on Defense Primes / OEM clients (Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, BAE, RTX, etc.) — candidates with hands-on experience delivering vertical construction and facilities projects for these clients, at their own sites or at government-owned/contractor-operated facilities, will be looked upon most favorably. A background that spans a role with defense Primes / OEMs, followed by a career in A&E vertical construction delivery, is an ideal profile for this position.
This position will report to the AECOM’s Global Design Practice SVP, Head of Strategy & Growth, and will work closely with our US DOW Team and global defense leaders across the company.
We welcome applications from candidates who are already performing in a similar role, as well as those who have the experience, capability, and ambition to take the next logical step in their career progression into this position.
Qualifications
- Candidates must have a background in architecture, engineering, or a related A/E discipline with direct delivery experience on vertical construction projects (e.g., building design, building engineering, planning, or program/construction management) for Defense Primes / OEM clients — pure IT, cybersecurity, digital systems integration, or general business development backgrounds without hands-on A&E design or delivery experience will not meet the qualifications for this role.
- BA/BS +20 years’ experience or equivalent, including 4 years of leadership experience
- Due to the nature of the work, U.S. citizenship is required
- Proven experience working with Defense Primes / OEM clients and US DOW agencies on facilities and vertical construction programs (e.g., manufacturing, and final assembly facilities, hangars and MRO facilities, training facilities, SCIF/SAPF facilities, barracks)
- Commercial knowledge of the Defense Primes / OEM clients industry in relation to infrastructure needs, contracts, fees, and industry needs
- Leadership experience operating across geographies and multidisciplinary teams
- Demonstrated success leading accounts, complex pursuits, and multi-region delivery
Preferred background:
- Commercially astute, with executive stakeholder engagement skills
- Industrial background & experience in advanced manufacturing
- Direct project experience on Weapon System Bed downs, SCIF/SAPF or other ICD 705-compliant facilities, training facilities, hangars, MRO facilities, final assembly buildings, or program office space delivered for Defense Primes / OEM clients
Additional Information
- Sponsorship for US employment authorization is not available now or in the future for this position
- Relocation is not available for this position
At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.
Offered compensation will be based on location and individual qualifications. The expected range is $250,000.00 - $325,000.00.
About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.
About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
See All 112+ Growth Jobs in Chicago
Find roles in Chicago that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Growth JobsGrowth Job Market in Chicago
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Food & Beverage
- Technology & Software
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Accounting & Auditing
- Staffing & Recruiting
Growth Jobs in Chicago: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a growth job in Chicago?
The strongest path to a growth role in Chicago runs through the city's tech, healthtech, and fintech sectors, where product-led companies in the Loop and Fulton Market hire growth professionals most consistently. Candidates who can show hands-on experience with acquisition funnels, lifecycle campaigns, or data-driven experimentation stand out locally. Targeting mid-size startups and scale-ups headquartered in Chicago gives you the best odds of landing an early interview.
Which companies hire growths in Chicago?
Employers hiring growths in Chicago right now include Amazon, Kraft Heinz, and ZS Associates, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. Chicago's mix of enterprise software firms, insurance-tech players, and consumer marketplace companies creates steady year-round demand across seniority levels.
Are there remote growth jobs in Chicago?
Yes, though it depends heavily on the specialty: analytical and lifecycle-focused growth roles tend to go remote more often than hands-on, channel-specific positions that require in-person collaboration. About 75% of growth openings tied to Chicago are remote or hybrid as of September 2026, with the remainder based in offices in the Loop, Fulton Market, or River North. Demand-generation and retention-focused roles see the highest remote availability among Chicago-listed growth positions.
How can I get a growth job in Chicago with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry point in Chicago is a growth associate or marketing operations coordinator role at a mid-size startup or established tech company, many of which are headquartered in Fulton Market or the West Loop. Chicago's dense startup ecosystem means companies regularly hire junior candidates who can demonstrate proficiency with analytics tools, email platforms, or paid channels. Bootcamp graduates and candidates from Chicago's university pipeline who can show project-based results compete effectively for these roles.
Which industries hire the most growths in Chicago?
Chicago growth roles concentrate in Food & Beverage, Technology & Software, and Consulting & Professional Services, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. Chicago's position as a hub for fintech, healthcare technology, and B2B software companies drives sustained demand for growth talent with both analytical and channel-specific skill sets.
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See All 112+ Growth Jobs in Chicago
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