CED devices now fly on space launch vehicles, satellites, missiles and emerging hypersonic defense platforms
Downers Grove, IL – November 2, 2026. A Chicago based energetics company that has supported NASA since the Apollo missions is hiring 50 new employees as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Chemring Energetic Devices (CED) is celebrating half a century in the design and manufacture of innovative devices critical to the aerospace and defense industries.
Due to significant growth in these markets and the unprecedented demand for its products/devices, CED plans to hire 50 new employees in the coming months.
Steven Hill, CED President said: “For half a century, our team has delivered devices that protect aircrew, put payloads into orbit and helped defend our Nation.
“This anniversary isn’t only about our history, but also about the future. Demand for our products has never been higher, so we’re investing in the talent we need to meet our customers’ requirements for the next 50 years.”
Over the past five decades, CED has built an unmatched reputation for highly precise, innovative devices that must work the first time, every time. Today, CED products perform mission-critical functions across a broad range of platforms: from aircrew escape systems and tactical missiles to space launch vehicles and satellites. CED is also winning new business in emerging programs, including hypersonic interceptors being developed to defend the United States against advanced threats.
Growing the Team
To support its expanding portfolio of programs, CED plans to add 50 positions in the coming months. This includes program managers to lead major defense and space programs, mechanical engineers for device design and test, process engineers for energetic materials, test and radiographic technicians, quality engineers, contracting specialists, finance and pricing experts, assembly technicians, and CNC operators, and facilities and maintenance personnel.
“Few companies offer engineers the chance to see their product launch into space or provide direct support to the military” said Hobin Lee, Vice President of Engineering. “We’re actively looking for people who want to take on that kind of responsibility.”
New employees will join a team of approximately 250 employees at the Downers Grove facility, just 20 minutes west of Chicago. CED offers competitive pay, benefits, and training. Interested candidates can learn more at Chemring.com/careers.