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

Traffic Engineer III

Columbia, SC · Hybrid

$80K - $109K/yr

ITS Planning and Design Responsibilities: Project Delivery & Technical Excellence * Serve as a ... associates. The Company Employee-owned, RS&H is one of the nation's leading architecture ...

This position performs all conventional aspects of engineering design and development, including ... with associates who work hard every day to create tomorrow together. We offer an exceptional ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Lexington, SC · On-site

$62K - $80K/yr

Develops, evaluates, and improves manufacturing methods using knowledge of product design ... Associates directly reporting to this position: Maintenance Supervisor Maintenance Technician ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Lexington, SC · On-site

$62K - $80K/yr

Develops, evaluates, and improves manufacturing methods using knowledge of product design ... Associates directly reporting to this position: Maintenance Supervisor Maintenance Technician ...

Senior Software Engineer - Mainframe

Columbia, SC · On-site

$113K - $149K/yr

The Senior Software Engineer plays a key role in the conceptualization, design, development, and ... The individual also plays a critical role in mentoring Software Engineers and Associate Software ...

Senior Software Engineer - Mainframe

Columbia, SC · On-site

$113K - $149K/yr

The Senior Software Engineer plays a key role in the conceptualization, design, development, and ... The individual also plays a critical role in mentoring Software Engineers and Associate Software ...

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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 17, 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 cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Associate Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Associate Design Engineer job openings:
Construction Project Coordinator- Engineer

Construction Project Coordinator- Engineer

State of South Carolina

Columbia, SC • On-site

$62K - $67K/yr

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Responsibilities The Construction Project Coordinator provides technical and administrative support to the Engineer/Associate Engineer III in the planning, design, coordination, and delivery of construction, renovation, and non-permanent improvement projects across the College. This position assists with all phases of project development, from initial planning and cost estimation through construction, inspection, and closeout, while ensuring compliance with applicable building codes, state procurement requirements, and institutional standards. The Construction Project Coordinator works closely with engineers, architects, contractors, campus departments, and skilled trades to support timely and cost-effective project execution.

The role also assists with monitoring project budgets, schedules, and documentation to ensure quality assurance and regulatory compliance throughout the construction process. Key Responsibilities Include: Assist the Engineer/Associate Engineer III with preparing cost estimates, designs, drawings, plans, and specifications for construction and renovation projects. Support field surveys and data collection to gather technical information for project planning and design.

Assist with reviewing proposed changes to building codes and providing recommendations to ensure compliance with applicable standards. Help prepare, coordinate, and manage design plans and specifications, including programming, environmental considerations, cost estimating, scheduling, and construction coordination. Support quality assurance efforts by assisting with inspections during construction to ensure adherence to approved plans and specifications.

Coordinate with College departments to support project scheduling and minimize operational disruptions. Assist with processing pay applications, change orders, invoices, and purchase orders related to construction projects. Support the administration of state procurement and non-permanent improvement projects in accordance with the South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code.

Assist with preparing and submitting required reports, forms, and documentation to appropriate state agencies. Help guide and inform architectural and engineering consultants on state contractual documentation requirement sand approval processes through the Office of the State Engineer. Assist in developing, monitoring, and controlling project budgets and expenditures, including the purchasing of construction-related supplies and equipment.

Collaborate with engineers, architects, technical staff, and skilled trade personnel to support project goals and timelines. Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervisor to support college-wide construction and renovation initiatives. This position is located on the Midlands Technical College Airport Campus.

Minimum and Additional Requirements A bachelor's degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or Construction Science and Management and intermediate- level engineering or construction management work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience on a year by year basis.


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About State of South Carolina

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State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

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