If you’re working in aircraft manufacturing (or trying to break into it), South Carolina—especially the Charleston area—continues to be one of the most important aerospace hubs in the Southeast. And as we head into 2026, signs point toward a stronger hiring market driven by production stability, facility investment, and long-term demand for commercial aircraft.
In plain terms: if you have hands-on production skills, quality experience, or a technical background, 2026 could be a great year to be “resume-ready.”
Charleston’s Aerospace Engine Isn’t Slowing Down
Charleston County has built a deep aerospace footprint over the last decade. Charleston County Development reports 5,148 aerospace vehicles & defense jobs (2020) and +48.1% growth from 2011–2021, highlighting just how quickly this sector has expanded locally. charlestoncountydevelopment.org
And while there are many aerospace employers across the state, Charleston is home to a major final-assembly and delivery operation for a large global aircraft manufacturer—one that has been investing heavily in South Carolina for years.
What We Know About 2026 Growth Projections (Without the Buzzwords)
Here are the facts that matter for job seekers:
- The manufacturer’s South Carolina operation employs more than 8,200 people across its campuses in North Charleston and Orangeburg. MediaRoom
- It recently announced a $1 billion site expansion in North Charleston intended to support production growth. Reuters+1
- Industry reporting indicates output and deliveries are expected to strengthen in 2026—particularly tied to widebody production rates. Reuters+1
The takeaway: more production capacity typically means more hiring activity, whether directly on the floor or across support functions that keep programs moving.
Dunhill’s History in Charleston Aerospace
Dunhill Staffing Systems is locally based in Charleston, SC, and we’ve built a long-standing relationship with this manufacturer and its supplier ecosystem. Over the years, Dunhill has been a preferred staffing partner, supporting both temporary needs when production demand rises, projects surge, or teams need specialized skill sets quickly. Many of the skilled professionals we’ve placed in temporary roles have gone on to full time employment with the client.
Types of aircraft manufacturing roles Dunhill has filled
We’ve helped place talented professionals in roles such as:
- Aircraft assembly and installation mechanics
- Structures and sheet metal technicians
- Electrical assemblers and avionics support
- Quality inspectors and quality engineers
- Production planners / schedulers
- Tooling, manufacturing, and process engineers
- Supply chain, materials, and logistics roles
- Office support, accounting, and program administration
In other words: whether you’re building, inspecting, planning, supporting, or improving the process—we understand the work and the language of the job.
Get Ready Now: 2026 Hiring Rewards the Prepared
Here’s the honest truth about aircraft hiring cycles: the best opportunities often move fast. When hiring demand spikes, managers want a short list of qualified people who are ready to step in—quickly.
So don’t wait until January to “start thinking about it.”
Ready to be first in line?
Email your current resume today to: aviation@dunhillstaff.com
Our recruiting team will review it, suggest improvements if needed, and keep you positioned to jump on new aircraft manufacturing opportunities as 2026 ramps up.
