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Apprentice Electrical Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Lead Operating Engineer

West Columbia, SC · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

... electrical and plumbing systems for the assigned facility. The performance of all necessary ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE § 5+ years of related trade ...

2-Year Maintenance Apprentice

Sumter, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

These control devices may be electrical or mechanical * Perform regular preventive maintenance on ... Effectively communicate with maintenance supervision, other engineering personnel, and area ...

Sr. Operating Engineer

West Columbia, SC · On-site

$94K - $130K/yr

Perform all plumbing, electrical, or HVAC/HVAC-R requirements of the building(s) *Maintain heating ... Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE *5+ years of related ...

Electrician

Cayce, SC

$23.25 - $31.75/hr

Working closely with the engineering group and contracted vendors to meet deadlines and complete ... Possess a two (2) year technical degree in electrical technology, completion of an apprenticeship ...

Electrician

Cayce, SC

$23.25 - $31.75/hr

Working closely with the engineering group and contracted vendors to meet deadlines and complete ... Possess a two (2) year technical degree in electrical technology, completion of an apprenticeship ...

Electrician

Cayce, SC

$23.25 - $31.75/hr

Working closely with the engineering group and contracted vendors to meet deadlines and complete ... Possess a two (2) year technical degree in electrical technology, completion of an apprenticeship ...

With integrated in-house construction, engineering, procurement, and commissioning capabilities ... Apprentice Program required documentation. * May troubleshoot electrical problems on customer ...

With integrated in-house construction, engineering, procurement, and commissioning capabilities ... Apprentice Program required documentation. * May troubleshoot electrical problems on customer ...

With integrated in-house construction, engineering, procurement, and commissioning capabilities ... Apprentice Program required documentation. * May troubleshoot electrical problems on customer ...

With integrated in-house construction, engineering, procurement, and commissioning capabilities ... Apprentice Program required documentation. * May troubleshoot electrical problems on customer ...

With integrated in-house construction, engineering, procurement, and commissioning capabilities ... Apprentice Program required documentation. * May troubleshoot electrical problems on customer ...

With integrated in-house construction, engineering, procurement, and commissioning capabilities ... Apprentice Program required documentation. * May troubleshoot electrical problems on customer ...

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Apprentice Electrical Engineer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$9

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$29

How much do apprentice electrical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice electrical engineer in Columbia, SC is $18.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an apprentice electrical engineer do?

An Apprentice Electrical Engineer supports qualified engineers in designing, developing, and maintaining electrical systems and equipment. Their duties often include assisting with technical drawings, conducting tests, troubleshooting issues, and learning how to apply engineering principles in real-world situations. Apprentices typically work under supervision while gaining hands-on experience and building their technical knowledge. This role is a stepping stone toward becoming a fully qualified electrical engineer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice electrical engineer?

To thrive as an Apprentice Electrical Engineer, you need a solid grounding in mathematics, physics, and basic electrical engineering concepts, usually supported by a relevant diploma or enrollment in an engineering apprenticeship program. Familiarity with CAD software, circuit simulation tools, and electrical testing equipment is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you learn from experienced engineers and contribute to projects. These skills and qualities are essential for developing technical expertise, ensuring safety, and progressing in a dynamic engineering environment.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an apprentice electrical engineer?

As an Apprentice Electrical Engineer, you'll typically assist with designing electrical systems, preparing technical drawings, and conducting site visits under the supervision of senior engineers. Your daily tasks may include updating schematics, testing electrical components, and helping with documentation. You'll also have opportunities to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, attend project meetings, and learn to troubleshoot real-world electrical issues. This hands-on experience is vital to building your technical skills and understanding industry standards.

What is the difference between Apprentice Electrical Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectApprentice Electrical EngineerElectrical Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed a degree in electrical engineering; may require certifications like a technician licenseBachelor's degree in electrical engineering; professional licensure may be required for certain roles
Work EnvironmentOn-the-job training, supervised tasks, entry-level projectsDesign, develop, and oversee electrical systems; more autonomous roles
ResponsibilitiesAssisting senior engineers, learning industry practices, basic testingDesigning systems, analyzing electrical components, project management

In summary, an Apprentice Electrical Engineer is an entry-level role focused on learning and supporting electrical projects, often requiring ongoing education. An Electrical Engineer has more advanced responsibilities, including designing and managing electrical systems, with greater independence and professional credentials.

Can you do an electrical engineering apprenticeship?

Yes, electrical engineering apprenticeships are available and provide hands-on training in electrical systems, circuitry, and industry standards. They typically require a high school diploma or equivalent and may involve working under the supervision of licensed engineers while gaining practical experience and relevant certifications. These programs often lead to full-time employment in electrical engineering roles.

How much do apprentice electrical engineers make?

Apprentice electrical engineers typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the industry. As they gain skills and certifications, their wages generally increase, and they may transition into higher-paying roles or more advanced positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Apprentice Electrical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Apprentice Electrical Engineer job openings:

Electrical Foreman Critical Power

Wachter, Inc.

Columbia, SC • On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Wachter rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Wachter is seeking a motivated, solution-oriented Traveling 100%  Foreman  Electrician for heavy commercial and industrial projects. You will act as the Foreman on-site, leading a team (typically 2 Licensed Electricians and 2 Apprentices) to deliver high-quality installations under tight deadlines. This is a long-term opportunity for a pro who can lead a crew while staying hands-on with complex electrical systems. 
What You'll Do:
  • Lead "heavy commercial" projects on industrial sites, managing teams of 4+ Electricians/Apprentices.
  • Perform diverse electrical tasks, from small pipe/wire to large-scale Generator and UPS installs.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, one-lines, and schematics. 
  • Run/bend conduit  and pull/terminate wire in varied environments. 
  • Operate scissor,  boom, and bucket lifts as needed.
  • Troubleshoot industrial controls, automation and PLCs. 
What We Are Looking For:
  • Licensing: Valid Journeyman Electrician License is required. 
  • Experience: Strong background in Industrial/Manufacturing systems (24v DC to 480v)
  • Leadership: Proven ability to run larger projects and hit "time  crunch" deadlines
  • Safety: OSHA 10 or 30 certification is a major plus
  • Skills: Strong written and verbal communication; ability to work independently or as a team. 
  • Flexibility: Must be willing to work up to 60 hours per week and travel nationwide. 
Benefits Package: Company Paid!
  • Medical,  Dental, Prescription & Vision Benefits 
  • Life, AD&D and LTD insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays 
  • Company- Matched 401(k) and IRA Retirement Savings
  • Per-Diem paid when overnight travel is required
  • Drive time and mileage paid for use of a personal vehicle when travel is required
  • Company vehicle could be provided
$45 - $55 an hour
About:
 
Wachter is a family-owned company since 1930 and we see each employee as a critical piece of the Wachter Family. With over 900 licenses across the country, Wachter serves commercial and industrial clients with the right technologies needed to keep them successful.
 
We design, install, and maintain the technologies that keep businesses operating efficiently. Our team of dedicated electricians, engineers, and technicians provides electrical, data, security, communications, and automation services to clients in numerous industries.
 
 
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
 
We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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