1

Associate Controls Engineer Jobs in South Carolina

Associate Controls Engineer

Ridgeville, SC · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Position Summary We are seeking an Associate Controls Engineer who is passionate about pushing beyond the cutting edge of the industry to design, build, and debug best-in-class controls systems for ...

Associate Controls Engineer

Ridgeville, SC · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Position Summary We are seeking an Associate Controls Engineer who is passionate about pushing beyond the cutting edge of the industry to design, build, and debug best-in-class controls systems for ...

Controls Engineer

Fairfax, SC · On-site

$70K - $91K/yr

Associates or Bachelor's degree or equivalent related experience * 5+ years of experience designing ... Allen-Bradley PLC Programming and HMI Programming * Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 525 and PowerFlex 755 ...

Controls Engineer

Fairfax, SC

$70K - $91K/yr

Associates or Bachelor's degree or equivalent related experience * 5+ years of experience designing ... Allen-Bradley PLC Programming and HMI Programming * Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 525 and PowerFlex 755 ...

Controls Engineer

Fairfax, SC · On-site

$70K - $91K/yr

Associates or Bachelor's degree or equivalent related experience * 5+ years of experience designing ... Allen-Bradley PLC Programming and HMI Programming * Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 525 and PowerFlex 755 ...

Sr. Controls Engineer - PLC

Trenton, SC · On-site

$105K - $139K/yr

... mentoring associates, providing technical assistance, and improving processes and standards ... with programming Industrial controls, PLC's, HMI's and Industrial communication protocols;

next page

Showing results 1-20

Associate Controls Engineer information

See South Carolina salary details

$51K

$89.6K

$121.6K

How much do associate controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate controls engineer in South Carolina is $89,616.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $100,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do associate controls engineers get paid?

Associate controls engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $60,000 and $75,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills in PLC programming, automation, or certifications can earn higher wages.

What are some common challenges faced by associate controls engineers when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Associate Controls Engineers often collaborate with professionals from mechanical, electrical, and software engineering backgrounds. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across disciplines, as each team may use different technical jargon and have distinct priorities. Additionally, balancing project timelines while integrating control systems with hardware and software components can require strong organizational and problem-solving skills. Proactively seeking feedback and participating in cross-functional meetings can help Associate Controls Engineers bridge gaps and contribute effectively to project success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate controls engineer?

To thrive as an Associate Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and automation, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industry-standard software such as AutoCAD or Rockwell Automation tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and resolve technical challenges. These competencies are crucial for designing efficient control solutions, ensuring system reliability, and driving project success in automated environments.

What does an associate controls engineer do?

An Associate Controls Engineer assists in designing, developing, and maintaining control systems used in manufacturing or industrial settings. They work with senior engineers to implement automation solutions, troubleshoot issues, and ensure equipment operates safely and efficiently. Their tasks often include programming controllers, testing system performance, and supporting the integration of new technologies. This role typically requires knowledge of electrical engineering, programming languages like PLC, and a strong attention to detail.

What is the difference between Associate Controls Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectAssociate Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Automation Engineering; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in related engineering; often more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting design, testing, and troubleshootingMore independent, leading projects, and system integration
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, and industrial facilitiesSimilar industries, with increased responsibilities

The main difference between an Associate Controls Engineer and a Controls Engineer lies in experience and responsibility level. Associate Controls Engineers typically support and assist in projects, focusing on learning and executing tasks under supervision. Controls Engineers take on more independent roles, managing projects and system design. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but Controls Engineers usually have more hands-on experience and leadership responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in South Carolina? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in South Carolina are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Controls Engineer jobs in South Carolina? For Associate Controls Engineer jobs in South Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Controls Engineer jobs in South Carolina look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Controls Engineer jobs in South Carolina are:
What cities in South Carolina are hiring for Associate Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in South Carolina with the most Associate Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Controls Engineer job openings in South Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,616 per year, or $43.1 per hour.

Associate Controls Engineer

Redwood Materials

Ridgeville, SC • On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Redwood Materials rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 90 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking an Associate Controls Engineer who is passionate about pushing beyond the cutting edge of the industry to design, build, and debug best-in-class controls systems for Redwood's battery recycling operations. This engineer will play a critical role in designing, commissioning, scaling, and supporting all of Redwood's recycling facilities working at the intersection of chemical process engineering, industrial automation, and software development. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Designing and implementing realtime control software in C++ for embedded and industrial systems
  • Developing automation tools, diagnostics, and orchestration scripts in Python
  • Writing, optimizing, and troubleshooting Structured Text (IEC 611313) for PLCs and industrial controllers
  • Building deterministic control loops, state machines, and safetycritical routines
  • Integrating software with sensors, actuators, drives, and industrial communication networks
  • Troubleshooting complex issues involving timing, concurrency, hardware interfaces, and industrial protocols on manufacturing systems
  • Conducting rootcause analysis for field issues and implementing longterm fixes
  • Collaborating with controls, electrical, and process teams to translate requirements into robust software desig

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities 

  • Bachelors degree in software, electrical, automation, or similar engineering degree
  • Proficiency in modern C++ for real time or embedded systems
  • Experience with Python for automation, tooling, or data processing
  • Hands on experience writing Structured Text for PLCs or industrial controllers
  • Understanding of deterministic execution, concurrency, and hardware software interaction
  • Experience with industrial protocols such as Modbus, EtherNet/IP, OPC UA, or PROFINET
  • Proven ability to successfully work in a team environment to solve complex engineering problems
  • Strong debugging skills across software, hardware, and network layers
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with motion control, robotics, or process automation
  • Familiarity with embedded Linux, RTOS environments, or microcontroller development
  • Knowledge of industrial cybersecurity standards or best practices
  • Experience with simulation tools, digital twins, or hardwareintheloop testing
  • Background integrating C++ runtimes with PLC or SCADA systems

What Redwood Materials employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom