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Associate Controls Engineer Jobs in South Carolina

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 · 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 · 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 ...

Automation Controls Engineer

Anderson, SC · On-site

$76K - $101K/yr

Our Vision is to empower associates to drive innovation and lead meaningful change wherever it ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering * 3 years of industrial electrical design experience in ...

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;

Controls Engineering Co-op (Spring 2027)

Spartanburg, SC · On-site

$73K - $94K/yr

As Controls Engineering Co-op you will receive a well-rounded experience in controls engineering ... Train other production associates in proper tool use and system function. * Lead or assist in line ...

Showing results 21-40

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 20, 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.

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 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 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 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 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,616 per year, or $43.1 per hour.

Controls Engineer

West Fraser

Fairfax, SC • On-site

$70K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 hours ago


West Fraser rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 19 rated forestry and logging companies


Job description

This position also involves managing and supporting electrical teams, collaborating with vendors, and assisting in project planning, system startups, and commissioning activities. A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset is essential, with the ability to identify improvement opportunities, implement optimization systems, and respond effectively to urgent operational needs.

What Will You Do:

  • Assist in maintaining and improving the PLC and other automation control systems while ensuring that all work is completed in a safe reliable manner.
  • Train/impart knowledge to mill personnel. Bring the skill level at the mill up to match the systems now in place.
  • Engage and work with mill-level personnel, develop an understanding of mill needs, and deliver the required help in an effective manner.
  • Maintenance and care of the various optimization systems (software and hardware).
  • Respond to emergency situations
  • Identify opportunities for improvement and help local mill management see the same.  Aid mill in implementing these improvements.
  • Assist in project planning, startups, helping the mill to meet/exceed ramp expectations.  Ability to work with vendors and help expeditiously move the mill beyond the vendors' expertise.
  • Conduct or supervise the installation, commissioning and operation of electrical and electronic equipment and systems.
  • Diagnose, test and analyze the performance of electrical and electronics components, assemblies and systems.

What You Will Need:

  • Associates or Bachelor’s degree or equivalent related experience
  •  5+ years of experience designing and/or operating machine automation solutions in the manufacturing industry.
  •  Proven experience in working on large-scale manufacturing operations.
  • Excellent troubleshooting skills – Drives, PLC issues, control issues, electrical.  Ability to troubleshoot from afar and talk mill folks effectively through issues.

  • Allen-Bradley PLC Programming and HMI Programming
  • Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 525 and PowerFlex 755 experience
  • Electrical Design and Drive Configuration and Network Design
  •  Good communication skills, both written and verbal.

Our highly competitive compensation package and outstanding benefits include:

  • Benefits starting Day 1
  • Competitive starting pay
  • On-the-job training
  • A culture that strongly believes in promoting from within
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision 
  • 401k with company matching & retirement contribution
  • Employee Stock Purchase plan
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Insurance
  • Paid vacations and holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program

Invitation to Apply:

If you are ready to build your career in a company that thrives on growth, a safe work environment, rewarding work, challenge, and opportunity, come build your career with us at West Fraser: www.westfraser.com/careers

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please apply through our online application process. Be sure to attach your resume to your online profile as resumes will not be accepted at the site. No phone inquiries, please.

West Fraser is a diversified wood products company producing lumber, OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, pulp, newsprint, wood chips, and energy with over 60 facilities in Canada, the United States, and Europe. We are the largest lumber producer in North America, a leading global manufacturer of wood-based panels, and the world’s largest producer of oriented strand board (OSB).

We are a growing company, believe strongly in promoting from within, and pride ourselves on providing a challenging environment with continuous development. The successful candidate should be interested in future growth opportunities within the company

West Fraser is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D & Drug-Free Workplace (DFW)


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About West Fraser

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

West Fraser is a well-established wood products company with a diverse portfolio of more than 60 facilities across Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. As a leader in sustainable forestry practices and high-efficiency wood product manufacturing, we have gained recognition for our commitment to excellence. Our core business involves producing lumber, engineered wood, and various other products, including pulp, newsprint, and renewable energy. With a focus on modern manufacturing facilities and product innovation, we are shaping a promising future.

Industry

Forestry

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Vancouver, BC, CA

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