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Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Charleston, SC

Raycap Inc

Mechanical Engineer/Designer

North Charleston, SC · On-site

$67K - $90K/yr

Associate Degree in Engineering Design or similar field of study * Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or civil engineering (structural focus) is preferred * 2 to 5 years of experience in ...

Raycap Inc

Design Checker

North Charleston, SC · On-site

The Engineering Design Checker is an integral part of the team, offering design guidance, ensuring ... Associates Degree or Certification of two (2) years training from a vocational training school with ...

ESP Associates

Survey CAD Technician

Charleston, SC · On-site

Associate degree or higher in surveying technology/geomatics, civil engineering, or related field ... ESP is a multi-discipline engineering design and consulting firm providing our clients with civil ...

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All JobsAssociate Design Engineer JobsAssociate Design Engineer Jobs in Charleston, SC

Associate Design Engineer information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$38.8K

$77.3K

$123.5K

How much do associate design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate design engineer in Charleston, SC is $77,332.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,300.00 and $88,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate design engineer?

Associate Design Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in the development, planning, and creation of new products or systems. They work under the supervision of senior engineers, contributing to drafting designs, creating prototypes, and conducting tests to ensure functionality and quality. Their responsibilities often include preparing technical documentation, using CAD software, and collaborating with other departments to ensure design specifications are met. This role provides foundational experience for a career in engineering design.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Design Engineer, you need a solid foundation in engineering principles, CAD design, and a relevant engineering degree such as mechanical, civil, or electrical engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard design software (such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit) and knowledge of relevant codes or certifications are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and attention to detail set standout candidates apart in this role. These skills are crucial for creating accurate, efficient designs and collaborating effectively with teams to deliver successful engineering projects.

What are some common challenges faced by associate design engineers in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Associate Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new design software, understanding project specifications, and effectively communicating with cross-functional teams. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the technical complexity of projects or the pace of deliverables. To overcome these hurdles, new engineers should take advantage of mentorship opportunities, actively seek feedback, and participate in collaborative meetings to build confidence and technical proficiency. Regularly reviewing documentation and engaging with more experienced colleagues can also help accelerate learning and integration into the team.

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

AspectAssociate Design EngineerDesign Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in engineering; often more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects, supporting senior engineersLead or independent projects, more responsibility
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace industriesUsed across similar industries, often with more complex tasks

The Associate Design Engineer typically holds an entry-level position supporting design tasks, while the Design Engineer has more experience and responsibility in leading projects. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Design Engineer often has additional certifications and a broader scope of work.

What can I do with an associate design engineer's degree?

An associate design engineer's degree prepares individuals for entry-level engineering roles focused on designing, analyzing, and testing products or systems. Graduates can work in industries such as manufacturing, construction, or product development, often using CAD software and engineering principles. Additional certifications or experience may be required for advanced positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Design Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC?

For Associate Design Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Design Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Design Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC are:

What cities near Charleston, SC are hiring for Associate Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Charleston, SC with the most Associate Design Engineer job openings:

Associate Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Design Engineer job openings in Charleston, SC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,816 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Payload Systems Design Engineer

North Charleston, SC • On-site

PDS Tech Commercial
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about PDS Tech Commercialexternal

$65 - $74/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Engineer the Passenger Experience - Shape the Future of Flight as a Payload Systems Design Engineer
PDS Tech Commercial is proud to partner with a premier leader in the aviation industry to bring on a talented Payload Systems Design Engineer. This is your opportunity to help design and deliver the aircraft interiors, cargo systems, and onboard features that define the flying experience for millions of passengers worldwide.
Job Type: Full time; Consultant
Location: North Charleston, SC
Schedule: Monday to Friday; First Shift 8AM-4PM
Pay Rate: $65.00 to $74.00per hour
About the Role
As a Payload Systems Design Engineer, you will be at the heart of aircraft innovation-developing and integrating the systems that passengers see and interact with, as well as critical components behind the scenes. From concept through certification and production, your work will directly impact safety, performance, and the customer experience.
What You'll Do
In this dynamic, full lifecycle engineering role, you will:
  • Develop, integrate, and document requirements for aircraft payload systems, including interiors and structural components
  • Create and modify designs using 3D CAD tools to deliver detailed product definitions
  • Validate and verify system performance through analysis and testing
  • Collaborate with suppliers to manage development, testing, and production efforts
  • Optimize designs to meet program goals, ensuring efficiency and manufacturability
  • Support certification processes and demonstrate compliance with aviation regulations
  • Interface with cross-functional teams including project engineering, production, and leadership
  • Contribute to areas such as monuments (lavatories & galleys), lighting, cargo systems, livery, and configuration
  • Drive continuous improvement by developing new processes, tools, and innovative design concepts
  • Stay ahead of industry trends by researching and applying emerging technologies
What You Bring
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Civil, Aeronautical, Materials Science, or related)
  • 5+ years of engineering experience in design, integration, and/or certification
  • Strong understanding of engineering principles and product lifecycle processes
  • Ability to work independently with general direction in a fast-paced environment
Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of FAA Title 14 Part 25 and/or EASA regulations
  • Background in design for manufacturing and production integration
  • Experience in program or project management, including scheduling, risk management, and resource planning
  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and collaborate with suppliers
Why Join Us
At PDS Tech Commercial, you'll work alongside some of the most innovative minds in aviation while contributing to programs that shape the future of air travel.
You'll be part of a team responsible for everything passengers see-and much they don't-making a direct impact on airline operations, branding, and customer satisfaction.
Ready to Make Your Mark on Aviation?
If you're driven to innovate, collaborate, and elevate the flying experience, this is your chance.
Apply today and help bring the next generation of aircraft interiors and payload systems to life.
This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.
Pay Details: $65.00 to $74.00 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
  • The California Fair Chance Act
  • Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
  • Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
  • San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Ref: US_EN_33_022581_2566680
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About PDS Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1977, PDS Tech, Inc. is one of the nation's premier specialty staffing firms with 31 offices nationwide.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1977

Social media

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