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Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Accura Engineering

Survey CAD Technician

Columbia, SC · On-site

Based on experience and will be discussed with manager in interview Accura Engineering is seeking a ... Knowledge of technical drafting, with an Associate Degree in Technical Drafting or a related field ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Columbia, SC · On-site

$87K/yr

... associates for their assigned account(s). Responsibilities: Lead and mentor a team of design ... Collect data from client and stakeholders by engaging in programming, surveys, focus groups ...

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

Associate Design Engineer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$38.4K

$76.5K

$122.1K

How much do associate design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate design engineer in Columbia, SC is $76,450.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,600.00 and $87,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is an associate design engineer?

An associate design engineer is an entry-level engineering professional involved in designing products, systems, or components under the supervision of senior engineers. They typically use CAD software, have a foundational understanding of engineering principles, and may hold a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. This role often involves collaboration, technical documentation, and supporting design development processes.

What are Associate Design Engineers?

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 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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, aerospace, software, and electrical engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and often in leadership or specialized roles. High salaries are typically associated with roles requiring advanced certifications, management responsibilities, or working in high-demand industries.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, especially in industries with high demand for technical expertise.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineering professionals such as senior petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, or specialized software engineers in leadership roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and working in high-paying industries or executive positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Design Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC? For Associate Design Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Design Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Design Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Associate Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Associate Design Engineer job openings:
Associate Design Engineer jobs near you
Hydraulics Design Associate

Hydraulics Design Associate

Ramey Kemp Associates

Columbia, SC

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description
Are you interested in building a limitless future for yourself? Do you have an interest in transportation engineering and feel driven to improve infrastructure for local communities? Ramey Kemp Associates wants you -- and the passion and talent you can bring to our team. The Hydraulics Design Associate will help build that limitless future for the team, company and community. 

Primary Responsibilities and Expectations:
  • Perform technical design, plan production and report preparation through the life cycle of assigned project(s).
  • Performs engineering/planning/administrative project tasks.
  • Provides technical support for engineering, planning and administrative tasks.
  • Performs evaluations and designs using various hydraulic software programs.
  • Responsible for drainage design, including, but not limited to the design of storm sewers, culverts, storm water management facilities, roadside ditches, and erosion control.
  • Other design responsibilities include, but not limited to, open and closed conveyance system design, bridge hydraulics, hydrology and flood analysis, pond routing, and post-construction BMP design.
  • Travel throughout the state and possible travel to other states.

Requirements
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in in Environment or Civil Engineering or related discipline. E.I. Certification or achieved within 6 months of hire.

Experience: Zero - four years of overall and progressively responsible experience with public and private sector projects.

Skills:
  • Ability to learn and use relevant hydraulics and erosion control software programs; proficiency with Microstation, Geopak Drain or OpenRoads is a plus.
  • Strong knowledge of MS Office software.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to analyze and interpret data.
  • Leadership skills.
  • Ability to work independently and make decisions.
  • Strong organizational skills, including but not limited to, meeting deadlines, multi-tasking, etc.

Ramey Kemp Associates is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Benefits
  • MEDICAL. DENTAL & VISION: We all have health expenses… RKA understands that and fights to provide employees with the competitive insurance options at low rates.
  • CHOOSE YOUR OWN PTO & HOLIDAYS: RKA provides employees with the flexibility to choose the time off they need without the stress of counting how much time off they have left.
  • PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES: RKA encourages employees to attend trainings and seminars to help them continue to grow in their professional lives.
  • OPT. ALTERNATIVE WORK SCHEDULE: Work an extra hour Monday through Thursday and take a half day Friday to extend your weekend!
  • 401(K) MATCH: Planning for your future is important and key to financial stability. RKA offers its employees a 401(k) program with company match.
  • PAID PARENTAL LEAVE: RKA understands the importance of family and is proud to provide employees with paid parental leave.