Trucking Careers · Illinois · October 23, 2026

Hyundai Translead Adds 1,250 Jobs to Planned Illinois Trailer Plants

Save this to Pinterest

Illinois is getting 1,250 more trailer factory jobs on top of the 2,500 already promised.

Trailer maker Hyundai Translead announced on Oct. 22 that it plans to raise its investment in its new Illinois manufacturing operations to $600 million and expand its job commitment to 3,750 full-time positions, according to a company news release.

From two shifts to three

In March, the company announced it would invest more than $450 million to set up two manufacturing facilities in Will County, creating 2,500 full-time jobs, the release says.

The new plan adds a third production shift. Hyundai Translead says that shift represents $150 million in planned investment and 1,250 jobs beyond the original commitment.

The company says the expanded plan reflects "growing customer interest in the new Illinois operations" and positions it to provide more capacity "as the transportation industry continues its recovery."

What leaders said

"Expanding our planned investment reflects our confidence in Illinois, its workforce, and the long-term growth of our U.S. operations," said Sean Kenney, CEO of Hyundai Translead. "This increased commitment will create more opportunities for working families, strengthen our manufacturing capabilities, and enhance our ability to serve customers."

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker called the expansion "yet another vote of confidence in Illinois, our workers, and our strength as a manufacturing hub." He said, "Creating 3,750 new jobs is transformational for the region."

What the release does not say

The announcement does not say when hiring will begin, when the plants will open, or what the jobs will pay. The release says Hyundai Translead's Illinois expansion is part of a broader plan to strengthen its North American manufacturing network. It says the two facilities will support the company's core operations while leaving room for more product lines and future expansion.

A question for readers

Would you ever trade the driver's seat for a steady factory job building the trailers you used to pull?

Share your thoughts on our Facebook page.