Moving to Charleston? We can help.
If you are considering a move to the Lowcountry to join our booming aerospace sector, you are making a strategic career move. Charleston isn’t just a hub for world-class aircraft manufacturing; it is a community with a unique rhythm and a high quality of life. However, relocating for a specialized role—like a Structures Assembler or Manufacturing Engineer—requires more than just packing a suitcase. You need a local perspective to ensure your transition is as smooth as your career trajectory.
Navigating the Charleston Geography
When you look at a map of Charleston, you might see one large area, but for your daily commute, the distinctions between neighborhoods are vital.
- Mount Pleasant: If you prefer being close to our Dunhill headquarters and enjoy a suburban feel with quick access to the beaches at Isle of Palms, this is your primary target. It is known for its excellent schools and dining at Shem Creek.
- North Charleston: This is the industrial heart of the region. If you want to be minutes away from major aerospace manufacturing plants and the airport, you should focus your housing search here. Areas like Park Circle offer a vibrant, walkable community for young professionals.
- Summerville: Known as the “Flowertown in the Pines,” this area offers more space and is a popular choice for families looking for a balance between work and a quieter home life. While the commute to North Charleston is manageable, you should plan for traffic during peak hours.
Understanding the Local Technical Market
The Charleston aerospace market is tightly knit. Beyond the major manufacturers, a vast network of Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers provides the backbone of our industry. Your success in this market often depends on who you know and how well you understand the local ecosystem.
Expert Guidance for Your Move
While national firms might see you as a number in a database, our team takes a different approach. We focus on the “human element” of your move. For instance, David Abner, CSP, a Partner at Dunhill, has personally offered relocation advice to hundreds of contractors we have placed in the Charleston area. Whether it is identifying the best commute routes or understanding which local credit unions specialize in contractor services, David’s decade of experience in aircraft personnel recruitment ensures you aren’t just moving to a city, but joining a community.
Practical Tips for Your Move
- Cost of Living Research: While South Carolina generally offers a lower cost of living than many aerospace hubs like Seattle or Los Angeles, Charleston is a premium market. You should use a cost of living calculator to compare your current city to Charleston to set a realistic budget for housing and utilities.
- Timing Your Start: Most major aerospace employers in the area have specific “onboarding cohorts.” You should coordinate closely with your recruiter to align your move-in date with your start date to avoid unnecessary hotel stays. Many of our featured roles even include relocation assistance, such as a $5k relocation bonus, to help bridge the gap.
- Local Professional Networking: You should consider joining local chapters of professional organizations, such as the South Carolina Aerospace cluster, even before you arrive. This builds your “Geographic Authority” and helps you hit the ground running.
Ready to Make the Move?
Your journey to a new career in South Carolina starts with a single conversation. Whether you need advice on the best school districts or a direct line to the hiring managers at Charleston’s top aerospace firms, our team is ready to assist.
