Aerospace & Defense STEM OPT Jobs in Illinois
Illinois anchors some of the country's most active aerospace and defense hiring, with companies like Boeing, Raytheon, and L3Harris operating facilities across the Chicago metro, Rockford, and the Quad Cities. F-1 students in STEM disciplines find strong demand for engineers, systems analysts, and data scientists in roles that regularly qualify for STEM OPT authorization.
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Astronics Connectivity Systems and Certification (formerly Telefonix PDT and Astronics Armstrong Aerospace) serves as the experienced, global market leader for in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) solutions for aircraft. As a systems certification provider, Astronics CSC has worked on over 100 projects for industry partners to upgrade commercial and business aircraft with new passenger power systems, IFEC navigation, communication and flight safety systems. Additionally, Astronics CSC offers proven IFEC hardware systems, flexible design platforms, high customer satisfaction, and long-term relationships with industry leaders to help make the connected aircraft a reality. The company now employs over 300 employees and is a six-time recipient of Chicago’s Best and Brightest Employers to Work For award.
SUMMARY
Provides electrical/system component and installation design solutions required to support the installation design and certification of systems and equipment onboard commercial aircraft.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Work within a project team to understand system architecture and functionality, as well as the integration and interaction of the system/equipment with the aircraft
- Perform the necessary aircraft manual research to source power, identify and source the appropriate discrete and ARINC 429 signals from existing avionics LRU’s onboard the aircraft, and identify open disconnect positions
- Develop components and system installations to satisfy competing design requirements, including cost, schedule, manufacturability, etc.
- Develop parts lists/Bills of Materials for piece-part, assembly, and installation drawings
- Develop pin-to-pin wire diagrams and the associated cable and harness manufacturing drawings needed to integrate the electrical system architecture from the LRU specifications/requirements, interconnectivity documents, and/or block diagrams
- Produce piece-part, assembly and installation drawings requisite to effectively communicate manufacturing data and installation design
- Develop work instructions based on electrical drawings
- Conduct aircraft surveys to facilitate component and installation design, as well as identify potential installation challenges associated with the existing aircraft structure and retrofit installs
- Act as Lead Engineer on programs and interface with customers on technical issues and during design reviews
- Work with aircraft mechanical and installation teams to troubleshoot system installation and operation problems, as well as support certification and operability testing
- Occasional mentoring of less senior employees
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This job has no supervisory responsibilities.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must satisfactorily perform each essential duty. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
Required:
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical or Systems Engineering, or in a related technical and/or equivalent field
- Familiarity and/or experience working with a 2D CAD package, preferably AutoCAD
- Familiarity and/or experience developing piece-part, assembly and/or installation drawings
- Experience in the aviation/aerospace
- 2+ years of experience working on aircraft
Preferred:
- Experience in the aviation/aerospace or similar industry
- 2+ years of experience working in an electrical design capacity
COMPETENCIES
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
- Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Able to parse large amounts of data and distinguish the pieces with a large impact; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Employs logic when solving problems
- Design - Generates creative solutions; Translates concepts and information into images; Uses feedback to modify designs; Demonstrates attention to detail; Satisfies all requirements; Finds optimal solutions to complicated problems
- Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Consistently and continuously identifies ways to validate answers; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics
- Technical Skills - Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others; Builds knowledge base from research and experience
- Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Maintains confidentiality; Remains open to others' ideas and tries new things; Takes responsibility and ownership for mistakes
- Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings
- Written Communication - Writes clearly, concisely and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information
- Teamwork - Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit
- Ethics - Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; Works in an ethical manner and with integrity; Upholds organizational values
- Organizational Support - Disciplined in thought and action; Follows policies and procedures; Completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; Supports organization's goals and values
- Judgment - Exhibits sound and accurate judgment; Supports and explains reasoning for decisions; Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions
- Planning/Organizing - Uses time efficiently; Strives to increase productivity
- Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Follows through on commitments
- Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality
- Safety and Security - Observes safety and security procedures; Reports potentially unsafe conditions
- Adaptability - Manages competing demands; Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events
- Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time; Ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent; Communicates conflicting work/personal needs in a timely manner
- Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Follows up on assigned tasks; Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals
- Innovation - Meets challenges with resourcefulness; Generates suggestions for improving work; Develops innovative approaches and ideas; Participates and facilitates brainstorming activities; Presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others' attention
LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, blueprints, product and component specifications, data sheets and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively communicate technical details, design concepts, analysis results, and substantiation via verbal or written mediums. Ability to contribute to technical discussions before groups of customers and/or employees.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to read and interpret figures, graphs and plots. Ability to solve algebraic, geometry and calculus-based problems. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations. Ability to apply mathematical concepts to solve engineering and technical problems. Ability to manage, organize, analyze and decipher large amounts of data.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to solve practical, technical and engineering problems via a logical, analytic approach. Ability to simplify complicated problems using assumptions. Ability to validate work using verification techniques.
COMPUTER SKILLS
To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of electronic equipment. Additionally, intermediate PC skills and knowledge of Internet and Microsoft Office applications are required. Computer experience/operation is necessary.
OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Ability to multi-task. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Strong time management and organizational skills. Ability to work under dynamic schedule constraints and consistently meet deliverable timelines.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. May be exposed to high voltage electricity.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Personal Protective Equipment may be required when working in designated areas. The noise level in the work environment is moderate.
An offer of employment is contingent on successfully passing a drug test and background check, and applicants who do not successfully pass both the drug test and background check will not be considered for employment.
The salary range specified is applicable to positions within the State of Illinois and reflects various factors considered in compensation decisions. These factors include, but are not limited to, individual skill sets, experience, training, licensure, certifications, and the specific needs of our business and organization. At Astronics CSC, it is uncommon for new hires to receive an offer at or near the top end of the range for their role. Compensation decisions are made based on the unique facts and circumstances of each candidate. The current estimated yearly salary range for this position is $72,746 to $110,000 per year. In addition, you will be eligible for our Quarterly Incentive compensation bonus. Astronics offers a competitive salary, along with opportunities for career growth.
BENEFITS
Astronics CSC provides a comprehensive benefits package available to full-time employees, with part-time employees potentially eligible for these benefits on a pro-rated basis.
- Stay Healthy – Health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, FSA, HSA, as well as voluntary life/AD&D, voluntary critical illness, accident prevention and hospital indemnity
- Save for the Future – 401K, Profit Sharing & Employee Stock Purchase Plan
- The Astronics Corporation Profit Sharing/401(k) Plan is a “safe harbor” plan. Under the plan, Astronics has committed to contribute 3% of your eligible wages, with the ability to do an annual discretionary adder on top
- Find Balance – Employee Assistance Program & Wellness Program
- Time for You – Generous Paid Time Off (PTOS), Volunteer Time Off Program (VTO), Paid Holidays, and Paid Parental Leave
- Professional Growth – Tuition Reimbursement Program
ACCOMMODATION REQUEST
Astronics CSC is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please e-mail CSC.HR@astronics.com or call: 847-244-4500. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
INTRODUCTION
Astronics Connectivity Systems and Certification (formerly Telefonix PDT and Astronics Armstrong Aerospace) serves as the experienced, global market leader for in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) solutions for aircraft. As a systems certification provider, Astronics CSC has worked on over 100 projects for industry partners to upgrade commercial and business aircraft with new passenger power systems, IFEC navigation, communication and flight safety systems. Additionally, Astronics CSC offers proven IFEC hardware systems, flexible design platforms, high customer satisfaction, and long-term relationships with industry leaders to help make the connected aircraft a reality. The company now employs over 300 employees and is a six-time recipient of Chicago’s Best and Brightest Employers to Work For award.
SUMMARY
Provides electrical/system component and installation design solutions required to support the installation design and certification of systems and equipment onboard commercial aircraft.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Work within a project team to understand system architecture and functionality, as well as the integration and interaction of the system/equipment with the aircraft
- Perform the necessary aircraft manual research to source power, identify and source the appropriate discrete and ARINC 429 signals from existing avionics LRU’s onboard the aircraft, and identify open disconnect positions
- Develop components and system installations to satisfy competing design requirements, including cost, schedule, manufacturability, etc.
- Develop parts lists/Bills of Materials for piece-part, assembly, and installation drawings
- Develop pin-to-pin wire diagrams and the associated cable and harness manufacturing drawings needed to integrate the electrical system architecture from the LRU specifications/requirements, interconnectivity documents, and/or block diagrams
- Produce piece-part, assembly and installation drawings requisite to effectively communicate manufacturing data and installation design
- Develop work instructions based on electrical drawings
- Conduct aircraft surveys to facilitate component and installation design, as well as identify potential installation challenges associated with the existing aircraft structure and retrofit installs
- Act as Lead Engineer on programs and interface with customers on technical issues and during design reviews
- Work with aircraft mechanical and installation teams to troubleshoot system installation and operation problems, as well as support certification and operability testing
- Occasional mentoring of less senior employees
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This job has no supervisory responsibilities.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must satisfactorily perform each essential duty. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
Required:
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical or Systems Engineering, or in a related technical and/or equivalent field
- Familiarity and/or experience working with a 2D CAD package, preferably AutoCAD
- Familiarity and/or experience developing piece-part, assembly and/or installation drawings
- Experience in the aviation/aerospace
- 2+ years of experience working on aircraft
Preferred:
- Experience in the aviation/aerospace or similar industry
- 2+ years of experience working in an electrical design capacity
COMPETENCIES
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
- Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Able to parse large amounts of data and distinguish the pieces with a large impact; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Employs logic when solving problems
- Design - Generates creative solutions; Translates concepts and information into images; Uses feedback to modify designs; Demonstrates attention to detail; Satisfies all requirements; Finds optimal solutions to complicated problems
- Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Consistently and continuously identifies ways to validate answers; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics
- Technical Skills - Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others; Builds knowledge base from research and experience
- Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Maintains confidentiality; Remains open to others' ideas and tries new things; Takes responsibility and ownership for mistakes
- Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings
- Written Communication - Writes clearly, concisely and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information
- Teamwork - Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit
- Ethics - Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; Works in an ethical manner and with integrity; Upholds organizational values
- Organizational Support - Disciplined in thought and action; Follows policies and procedures; Completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; Supports organization's goals and values
- Judgment - Exhibits sound and accurate judgment; Supports and explains reasoning for decisions; Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions
- Planning/Organizing - Uses time efficiently; Strives to increase productivity
- Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Follows through on commitments
- Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality
- Safety and Security - Observes safety and security procedures; Reports potentially unsafe conditions
- Adaptability - Manages competing demands; Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events
- Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time; Ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent; Communicates conflicting work/personal needs in a timely manner
- Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Follows up on assigned tasks; Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals
- Innovation - Meets challenges with resourcefulness; Generates suggestions for improving work; Develops innovative approaches and ideas; Participates and facilitates brainstorming activities; Presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others' attention
LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, blueprints, product and component specifications, data sheets and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively communicate technical details, design concepts, analysis results, and substantiation via verbal or written mediums. Ability to contribute to technical discussions before groups of customers and/or employees.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to read and interpret figures, graphs and plots. Ability to solve algebraic, geometry and calculus-based problems. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations. Ability to apply mathematical concepts to solve engineering and technical problems. Ability to manage, organize, analyze and decipher large amounts of data.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to solve practical, technical and engineering problems via a logical, analytic approach. Ability to simplify complicated problems using assumptions. Ability to validate work using verification techniques.
COMPUTER SKILLS
To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of electronic equipment. Additionally, intermediate PC skills and knowledge of Internet and Microsoft Office applications are required. Computer experience/operation is necessary.
OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Ability to multi-task. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Strong time management and organizational skills. Ability to work under dynamic schedule constraints and consistently meet deliverable timelines.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. May be exposed to high voltage electricity.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Personal Protective Equipment may be required when working in designated areas. The noise level in the work environment is moderate.
An offer of employment is contingent on successfully passing a drug test and background check, and applicants who do not successfully pass both the drug test and background check will not be considered for employment.
The salary range specified is applicable to positions within the State of Illinois and reflects various factors considered in compensation decisions. These factors include, but are not limited to, individual skill sets, experience, training, licensure, certifications, and the specific needs of our business and organization. At Astronics CSC, it is uncommon for new hires to receive an offer at or near the top end of the range for their role. Compensation decisions are made based on the unique facts and circumstances of each candidate. The current estimated yearly salary range for this position is $72,746 to $110,000 per year. In addition, you will be eligible for our Quarterly Incentive compensation bonus. Astronics offers a competitive salary, along with opportunities for career growth.
BENEFITS
Astronics CSC provides a comprehensive benefits package available to full-time employees, with part-time employees potentially eligible for these benefits on a pro-rated basis.
- Stay Healthy – Health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, FSA, HSA, as well as voluntary life/AD&D, voluntary critical illness, accident prevention and hospital indemnity
- Save for the Future – 401K, Profit Sharing & Employee Stock Purchase Plan
- The Astronics Corporation Profit Sharing/401(k) Plan is a “safe harbor” plan. Under the plan, Astronics has committed to contribute 3% of your eligible wages, with the ability to do an annual discretionary adder on top
- Find Balance – Employee Assistance Program & Wellness Program
- Time for You – Generous Paid Time Off (PTOS), Volunteer Time Off Program (VTO), Paid Holidays, and Paid Parental Leave
- Professional Growth – Tuition Reimbursement Program
ACCOMMODATION REQUEST
Astronics CSC is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please e-mail CSC.HR@astronics.com or call: 847-244-4500. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
STEM OPT Aerospace & Defense Job Roles in Illinois
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Search Aerospace & Defense Jobs in IllinoisAerospace & Defense STEM OPT Sponsorship Jobs in Illinois: Frequently Asked Questions
Which aerospace and defense companies sponsor F-1 STEM OPT visas in Illinois?
Boeing maintains a significant engineering and supply-chain presence in the Chicago area and has a documented history of hiring STEM OPT candidates. Raytheon Technologies, L3Harris, and Northrop Grumman also operate Illinois facilities and have filed Labor Condition Applications for engineering and technical roles. Mid-tier defense contractors and aerospace suppliers in the Rockford manufacturing corridor are additional sources of STEM OPT sponsorship activity.
Which cities in Illinois have the most aerospace and defense F-1 STEM OPT sponsorship jobs?
The Chicago metropolitan area, including suburbs like Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, and Lisle, concentrates the largest share of aerospace and defense STEM OPT roles in Illinois. Rockford is a secondary hub, driven by its dense cluster of precision manufacturing and aerospace-component suppliers. The Quad Cities region on the Iowa border also hosts defense-related engineering positions connected to regional manufacturing operations.
What types of aerospace and defense roles typically qualify for F-1 STEM OPT sponsorship?
Roles in systems engineering, avionics software development, mechanical and electrical engineering, aeronautical design, propulsion analysis, and quality assurance are among the most common STEM OPT-eligible positions in Illinois aerospace and defense. These occupations appear on the STEM-designated degree list maintained by the Department of Homeland Security and typically require degrees in engineering, computer science, physics, or mathematics, making them well-suited for STEM OPT authorization.
How do I find aerospace and defense F-1 STEM OPT sponsorship jobs in Illinois?
Migrate Mate filters aerospace and defense job listings specifically for F-1 STEM OPT eligibility in Illinois, showing you which employers have an active sponsorship history based on DOL Labor Condition Application data. Searching by industry and visa type on Migrate Mate surfaces verified Illinois employers in defense and aerospace who have sponsored STEM OPT candidates before, narrowing your search to companies with a real track record rather than those that simply say they are open to sponsorship.
Are there any Illinois-specific or industry-specific considerations for F-1 STEM OPT sponsorship in aerospace and defense?
Many Illinois aerospace and defense positions require access to export-controlled technology under International Traffic in Arms Regulations, which can restrict some roles to U.S. persons and affect STEM OPT eligibility for certain projects. F-1 students should confirm with prospective employers whether a specific role has ITAR or EAR restrictions before applying. Illinois also requires employers of STEM OPT students to be enrolled in E-Verify, which most large defense contractors already satisfy as a federal contracting requirement.