Project Director Jobs in Illinois
Project Director jobs in Illinois are in strong demand, with active hiring concentrated in construction and infrastructure, healthcare systems, technology, and financial services, and openings at every level from associate project director through senior program director. Chicago is the dominant hiring hub, with Naperville and Peoria also generating consistent postings, and major employers such as Advocate Health, Skanska, and Accenture maintaining steady project director needs across the state. The most sought-after specialties in Illinois are capital construction, IT and systems implementation, and healthcare operations. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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We continually strive for a workforce that reflects the growing diversity within the State of Illinois. A variety of employee backgrounds, perspectives, ideas and experiences are crucial to our ability to most effectively serve the public. Bilingual skills welcome
Reasonable Accommodation Statement
The State of Illinois is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. Further, federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job, interview for a job, or for any other activity related to the hiring process. Examples of reasonable accommodation include, but are not limited to, making a change to the application process (if possible), providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.
To be provided a Reasonable Accommodation during the hiring process, you will need to provide a certification of disability from a physician, psychiatrist, school official or an Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor. Supporting documentation should be uploaded under My Documents Additional Documents section for each application.
Any questions on Reasonable Accommodations can be directed to Central Management Services Disability Resource Center at CMS.DisabilityResCen@illinois.gov or call (217) 524-7514 for further information and to request or discuss an accommodation.
Sponsorship for Employment
The State of Illinois does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status), nor is the State able to provide extensions of optional practical training (OPT) under the STEM-designated degree program for F-1 students. To be considered for permanent employment with the State of Illinois, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Disclosure of Salary Information
In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, 820 ILCS 112/1 et seq., the State does not seek, request, or require a job applicant’s wage or salary history. Employment decisions are not made based on an applicant’s wage or salary history. To that end, please do not include wage or salary information in your resume or other profile or application materials.
Job Requisition ID: 59899 IPR #2026-01814
Opening Date: 10/29/2026
Closing Date: 11/16/2026
Agency: Department of Transportation
Position Title: Technical Manager III
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary: $5,055; Full Range $5,055-$8,800 monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: Non-union
Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Anticipated Hybrid Work Schedule Availability: 3 to 5 Days per week in office, depending on operational needs
Work Location: 2300 S Dirksen Pkwy, Springfield, Illinois, 62764
Work Office: Office of Highways and Intermodal Project Implementation / Executive
Work County: Sangamon
Agency Contact: DOT.CONTACTHR@ILLINOIS.GOV
Why Work for Illinois?
Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.
Position Overview
This position is accountable for performing sensitive, confidential support functions for the Director of Highways Project Implementation by reviewing and summarizing technical documents, collecting and evaluating data, managing general office functions, and conducting special reviews and ad hoc studies for the executive staff in the Office of Highways.
Essential Functions
- Develops alternatives or recommendations on matters of a confidential, sensitive nature affecting departmental programs.
- Maintains effective liaison with groups and individuals within the department as well as external interest groups.
- Provides assistance in the selection of broad priorities, methods to be used for allocation of funds, and promotion of departmental measures and programs.
- Provides accurate and comprehensive advice to the Director of Highways Project Implementation on a variety of issues.
- Effectively manages day-to-day office operations and keeps supplies and equipment working properly.
- Successfully plans, coordinates and schedules meetings and activities for the Director of Highways Project Implementation.
- Performs duties in compliance with departmental safety rules. Performs all duties in a manner conducive to the fair and equitable treatment of all employees.
- Performs other duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
- Completion of a bachelor's degree majoring in public administration, business, or management; OR Completion of two years of college PLUS two years of experience providing technical and/or administrative assistance to executive level staff including reviewing and analyzing data, managing calendars, arranging travel and expense reports; drafting and tracking correspondence; developing presentations and talking points; coordinating activities with multiple contacts; or a combination thereof OR Six years of experience providing technical and/or administrative assistance to executive level staff including reviewing and analyzing data, managing calendars, arranging travel and expense reports; drafting and tracking correspondence; developing presentations and talking points; coordinating activities with multiple contacts; or a combination thereof.
Preferred Qualifications
- Working knowledge of administration functions.
- Working knowledge of public and business administration principles and practices.
- Working knowledge of agency programs and service objectives, activities, and operational systems.
- Ability to research projects and analyze statistical information.
- Ability to analyze administrative problems and adopt an effective course of action.
- Ability to develop, implement, and evaluate new and revised methods, procedures, and performance standards.
- Ability to exercise judgment and discretion in developing, implementing, and interpreting departmental policies and procedures.
- Effective oral and written communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to form and maintain harmonious and cooperative relationships with diverse groups of people.
Conditions of Employment
- Requires a valid driver’s license.
- Requires occasional overnight travel with overnight stays is required.
- Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non- State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.
- This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5 ILCS 420/4A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees to file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest with the Executive Ethics Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings.
- Requires successful completion of a background screening.
- The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listening the job description.
About the Agency
The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking to hire an Assistant to the Director of Highways Project Implmentation.
The IDOT team works diligently to provide safe, cost-effective transportation for Illinois in ways that enhance quality of life, promote economic prosperity and protect our environment. We are problem solvers and leaders, constantly searching for innovations and improvements in support of our commitment to providing the best multimodal transportation system for Illinois. Our team fosters a culture of inclusivity. We value diversity and hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards as we work together for a common purpose. Team members frequently collaborate with colleagues and others outside the department to best meet customer needs.
The department offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities. Employees also receive a robust benefit package including:
- Monday-Friday work schedule
- Flexible work schedules in several program areas (flexible time, hybrid scheduling)
- Health, Life, Vision, and Dental Insurance
- Pension Plan
- (12) Weeks paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
- Deferred Compensation Program and other pre-tax benefit programs (Medical/Daycare)
- Employees earn (12) paid Sick Days annually
- New Employees earn (10) paid Vacation Days their first year of service and can earn up to (25) paid Vacation Days annually
- Employees earn (3) paid Personal Days annually
- (13-14) paid holidays annually (based on start date)
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Employee Assistance Program and/or mental health resources
We invite qualified applicants to apply to become part of our team. We are confident that you will take pride in serving Illinois and its residents and visitors.
Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during State employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (“OEIG”) or may be subject to a fine.
This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5 ILCS 420/4A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees to file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest are also required to file the Supplemental Statement of Economic Interest with the Executive Ethics Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so.
State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees – a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.
Non-State employees should log in on the using the “View Profile” link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.
If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:
State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid
Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com – click “Application Procedures” in the footer of every page of the website.
Seasonal and temporary workers should use a personal e-mail address when applying for jobs.
The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:
- donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
- systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
We continually strive for a workforce that reflects the growing diversity within the State of Illinois. A variety of employee backgrounds, perspectives, ideas and experiences are crucial to our ability to most effectively serve the public. Bilingual skills welcome
Reasonable Accommodation Statement
The State of Illinois is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. Further, federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job, interview for a job, or for any other activity related to the hiring process. Examples of reasonable accommodation include, but are not limited to, making a change to the application process (if possible), providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.
To be provided a Reasonable Accommodation during the hiring process, you will need to provide a certification of disability from a physician, psychiatrist, school official or an Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor. Supporting documentation should be uploaded under My Documents Additional Documents section for each application.
Any questions on Reasonable Accommodations can be directed to Central Management Services Disability Resource Center at CMS.DisabilityResCen@illinois.gov or call (217) 524-7514 for further information and to request or discuss an accommodation.
Sponsorship for Employment
The State of Illinois does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status), nor is the State able to provide extensions of optional practical training (OPT) under the STEM-designated degree program for F-1 students. To be considered for permanent employment with the State of Illinois, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Disclosure of Salary Information
In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, 820 ILCS 112/1 et seq., the State does not seek, request, or require a job applicant’s wage or salary history. Employment decisions are not made based on an applicant’s wage or salary history. To that end, please do not include wage or salary information in your resume or other profile or application materials.
Job Requisition ID: 59899 IPR #2026-01814
Opening Date: 10/29/2026
Closing Date: 11/16/2026
Agency: Department of Transportation
Position Title: Technical Manager III
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary: $5,055; Full Range $5,055-$8,800 monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: Non-union
Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Anticipated Hybrid Work Schedule Availability: 3 to 5 Days per week in office, depending on operational needs
Work Location: 2300 S Dirksen Pkwy, Springfield, Illinois, 62764
Work Office: Office of Highways and Intermodal Project Implementation / Executive
Work County: Sangamon
Agency Contact: DOT.CONTACTHR@ILLINOIS.GOV
Why Work for Illinois?
Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.
Position Overview
This position is accountable for performing sensitive, confidential support functions for the Director of Highways Project Implementation by reviewing and summarizing technical documents, collecting and evaluating data, managing general office functions, and conducting special reviews and ad hoc studies for the executive staff in the Office of Highways.
Essential Functions
- Develops alternatives or recommendations on matters of a confidential, sensitive nature affecting departmental programs.
- Maintains effective liaison with groups and individuals within the department as well as external interest groups.
- Provides assistance in the selection of broad priorities, methods to be used for allocation of funds, and promotion of departmental measures and programs.
- Provides accurate and comprehensive advice to the Director of Highways Project Implementation on a variety of issues.
- Effectively manages day-to-day office operations and keeps supplies and equipment working properly.
- Successfully plans, coordinates and schedules meetings and activities for the Director of Highways Project Implementation.
- Performs duties in compliance with departmental safety rules. Performs all duties in a manner conducive to the fair and equitable treatment of all employees.
- Performs other duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
- Completion of a bachelor's degree majoring in public administration, business, or management; OR Completion of two years of college PLUS two years of experience providing technical and/or administrative assistance to executive level staff including reviewing and analyzing data, managing calendars, arranging travel and expense reports; drafting and tracking correspondence; developing presentations and talking points; coordinating activities with multiple contacts; or a combination thereof OR Six years of experience providing technical and/or administrative assistance to executive level staff including reviewing and analyzing data, managing calendars, arranging travel and expense reports; drafting and tracking correspondence; developing presentations and talking points; coordinating activities with multiple contacts; or a combination thereof.
Preferred Qualifications
- Working knowledge of administration functions.
- Working knowledge of public and business administration principles and practices.
- Working knowledge of agency programs and service objectives, activities, and operational systems.
- Ability to research projects and analyze statistical information.
- Ability to analyze administrative problems and adopt an effective course of action.
- Ability to develop, implement, and evaluate new and revised methods, procedures, and performance standards.
- Ability to exercise judgment and discretion in developing, implementing, and interpreting departmental policies and procedures.
- Effective oral and written communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to form and maintain harmonious and cooperative relationships with diverse groups of people.
Conditions of Employment
- Requires a valid driver’s license.
- Requires occasional overnight travel with overnight stays is required.
- Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non- State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.
- This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5 ILCS 420/4A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees to file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest with the Executive Ethics Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings.
- Requires successful completion of a background screening.
- The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listening the job description.
About the Agency
The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking to hire an Assistant to the Director of Highways Project Implmentation.
The IDOT team works diligently to provide safe, cost-effective transportation for Illinois in ways that enhance quality of life, promote economic prosperity and protect our environment. We are problem solvers and leaders, constantly searching for innovations and improvements in support of our commitment to providing the best multimodal transportation system for Illinois. Our team fosters a culture of inclusivity. We value diversity and hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards as we work together for a common purpose. Team members frequently collaborate with colleagues and others outside the department to best meet customer needs.
The department offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities. Employees also receive a robust benefit package including:
- Monday-Friday work schedule
- Flexible work schedules in several program areas (flexible time, hybrid scheduling)
- Health, Life, Vision, and Dental Insurance
- Pension Plan
- (12) Weeks paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
- Deferred Compensation Program and other pre-tax benefit programs (Medical/Daycare)
- Employees earn (12) paid Sick Days annually
- New Employees earn (10) paid Vacation Days their first year of service and can earn up to (25) paid Vacation Days annually
- Employees earn (3) paid Personal Days annually
- (13-14) paid holidays annually (based on start date)
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Employee Assistance Program and/or mental health resources
We invite qualified applicants to apply to become part of our team. We are confident that you will take pride in serving Illinois and its residents and visitors.
Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during State employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (“OEIG”) or may be subject to a fine.
This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5 ILCS 420/4A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees to file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest are also required to file the Supplemental Statement of Economic Interest with the Executive Ethics Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so.
State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees – a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.
Non-State employees should log in on the using the “View Profile” link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.
If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:
State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid
Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com – click “Application Procedures” in the footer of every page of the website.
Seasonal and temporary workers should use a personal e-mail address when applying for jobs.
The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:
- donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
- systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
See All 32 Project Director Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Project Director JobsProject Director Jobs by City in Illinois
Where Illinois roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Project Director Job Market in Illinois
A snapshot from current Illinois openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
- Sports & Recreation
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Energy
- Automotive
What Illinois Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in project director jobs across Illinois.
- PMP certification from the Project Management Institute widely required across Illinois employers
- Bachelor's degree in business, engineering, construction management, or a related field
- Seven or more years of progressively responsible project or program management experience
- Demonstrated ability to manage cross-functional teams and multimillion-dollar project budgets
- Proficiency with project management platforms such as Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, or Primavera P6
- Strong stakeholder communication skills and experience presenting to executive leadership
Project Director Jobs in Illinois: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a project director in Illinois?
Becoming a project director in Illinois typically starts with a bachelor's degree in a field relevant to your target industry, such as engineering, business administration, construction management, or information technology. From there, accumulating several years of project management experience and earning the Project Management Professional credential from the Project Management Institute strengthens candidacy considerably. Illinois does not require a state-issued license specific to the project director title, but construction-focused roles often expect a familiarity with Illinois building codes and procurement regulations.
How much do project directors make in Illinois?
Project directors in Illinois earn a median of about $103,470 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $65,300 for the lowest 10% to over $163,910 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire project directors in Illinois?
Employers hiring project directors in Illinois right now include AbbVie, Zachry, and Fitch Ratings, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Illinois's concentration of large healthcare networks, infrastructure contractors, and global professional services firms means demand for project directors is spread across multiple industries rather than dominated by any single sector.
Which Illinois cities have the most project director jobs?
Chicago, North Chicago, and Lisle have the most project director openings in Illinois. Chicago accounts for the large majority of postings given its density of corporate headquarters, hospital systems, and major construction activity, while Naperville draws demand from the technology and financial services firms clustered along the Interstate 88 corridor, and Peoria sees consistent hiring tied to manufacturing and infrastructure projects in central Illinois.
Are there remote project director jobs in Illinois?
Yes, though availability depends heavily on the industry. About 65% of project director openings tied to Illinois are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting that while strategic and planning functions can often be performed remotely, many Illinois project director roles involve on-site oversight of construction, clinical, or operational teams. Technology and consulting-focused project directors tend to find the most remote flexibility.
How can I get hired as a project director in Illinois with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is moving into a project coordinator or project manager role first, then building toward a director title over time. Large Illinois employers such as Advocate Health, the Illinois Department of Transportation, and major Chicago-area construction firms regularly hire project coordinators and associate project managers as development roles. Earning an entry-level credential such as the Certified Associate in Project Management designation and building a portfolio of completed projects are the steps that open doors to competitive director-track positions.
Where can I find and apply to project director jobs in Illinois?
You can find and apply to project director jobs in Illinois on Migrate Mate, which lists current Illinois openings across industries including construction, healthcare, technology, and professional services. Find roles that fit your experience and apply directly from each listing.
See All 32 Project Director Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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