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Associate Electrical Engineer Jobs in Kennewick, WA

Substation Engineer - I/II

Pasco, WA · On-site +1

$102K - $130K/yr

The Substation Engineer I / II supports the planning, design, and implementation of electrical substation projects for utility, industrial, and renewable energy clients. This role works under the ...

Substation Engineer - V

Pasco, WA

$102K - $130K/yr

The Project Engineer V is responsible for leading the technical execution of electrical substation ... Toth and Associates, Inc. (TOTH) is a full-service consulting engineering firm offering a broad ...

Substation Engineer - III/IV

Pasco, WA · On-site +1

$102K - $130K/yr

The Substation Engineer III / IV is responsible for the independent planning, design, and execution of electrical substation projects for utility, industrial, and renewable energy clients. This role ...

Maintenance Electrical Technician 6

Pasco, WA · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

An Associate Degree in Electronic Technology or closely related technical field preferred, or * A ... Advanced programming commands * Interfacing, troubleshooting, application and program development

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Associate Electrical Engineer information

See Kennewick, WA salary details

$41K

$87.5K

$144.4K

How much do associate electrical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate electrical engineer in Kennewick, WA is $87,545.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,900.00 and $104,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate electrical engineer do?

An Associate Electrical Engineer assists in designing, developing, and testing electrical systems and components, often working under the supervision of senior engineers. Their responsibilities may include creating technical drawings, performing calculations, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring projects meet safety standards and regulations. They often work on projects related to power generation, electronics, telecommunications, or building electrical systems. This entry-level role is ideal for recent graduates or those with limited experience, providing a foundation for career advancement in electrical engineering.

What are common projects and responsibilities for an associate electrical engineer during the first year?

As an Associate Electrical Engineer, you can expect to work on tasks such as drafting electrical schematics, assisting with circuit design, supporting senior engineers in troubleshooting, and performing site visits to ensure compliance with specifications. Early projects often involve collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as mechanical engineers and project managers, to help deliver solutions on time and within budget. You'll likely use industry-standard software tools and participate in regular team meetings to discuss progress and address challenges. Over time, you will gain increasing responsibility as you demonstrate your technical skills and reliability.

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

To thrive as an Associate Electrical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, a relevant bachelor's degree, and foundational experience with circuit design and analysis. Familiarity with industry-standard CAD software (such as AutoCAD or MATLAB), electrical simulation tools, and occasionally an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification are commonly expected. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively on complex projects and convey technical information clearly. These abilities are crucial for ensuring accurate designs, meeting project deadlines, and contributing positively to multidisciplinary engineering teams.

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

AspectAssociate Electrical EngineerElectrical Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field; some roles may require internshipsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering; often requires licensure or certification for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentEntry-level positions in design, testing, or maintenance within engineering firms, manufacturing, or utilitiesDesign, development, testing, and project management in similar industries, often with more responsibility
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in engineering firms, construction, and utilities; often a starting roleUsed across industries for more experienced roles, often requiring additional certifications

The main difference between an Associate Electrical Engineer and an Electrical Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. The Associate role is typically entry-level, focusing on supporting engineering tasks, while the Electrical Engineer usually has more experience and handles complex projects. Both roles require a bachelor's degree, but the Electrical Engineer may need licensure for advanced responsibilities.

How much do associate electrical engineers make?

Associate electrical engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $85,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages.

What can you do with an associate electrical engineer degree?

An associate electrical engineer degree prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as electrical technician, engineering assistant, or field service technician. Graduates can work on designing, testing, and maintaining electrical systems, often using tools like CAD software and following safety standards. Additional certifications may enhance job prospects and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Kennewick, WA?

The most popular types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Kennewick, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Electrical Engineer jobs in Kennewick, WA?

For Associate Electrical Engineer jobs in Kennewick, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Kennewick, WA are hiring for Associate Electrical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Kennewick, WA with the most Associate Electrical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Electrical Engineer job openings in Kennewick, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,545 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

Engineer, Instrument & Electrical

Kennewick, WA • On-site


Nutrien

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 544 rated manufacturers

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Engineer, Instrument & Electrical
Requisition ID: 33159
Location: Kennewick, WA, USA, 99337
Workplace Type: On-Site
Experience Level: Associate
Job Type: Full Time
Nutrien is a leading provider of crop inputs and services, and our business results make a positive impact on the world. Our purpose, Feeding the Future, is the reason we come to work each day. We're guided by our culture of care and our core values: We put safety first. We act with integrity. We are stronger together. We deliver with excellence.
Through the collective expertise of our nearly 26,000 employees, we operate a world-class network of production, distribution, and ag retail facilities. We efficiently serve growers' needs and strive to provide a more profitable, sustainable, and secure future for all stakeholders. Help us raise the expectation of what an agriculture company can be and grow your career with Nutrien.
Reporting to the Superintendent, Engineering, the Engineer, Instrumentation & Electrical will demonstrate excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills, along with the ability to effectively manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced production environment. Strong teamwork and collaboration skills are essential, with the ability to build productive relationships across operations, maintenance, and engineering teams. The role also requires exceptional written and verbal communication skills and a strong commitment to fostering a culture of safety, reliability, and continuous improvement.
This role is located at Nutrien's Kennewick, Washington site and is not available for remote work.
What You'll Do:
    • Provide electrical design, engineering and related technologies evaluation. This includes but is not limited to origination, preparation, review, approval, authentication and validation of electrical discipline deliverables
    • Lead electrical conceptual studies, projects scope development, detailed engineering design
    • Support electrical maintenance team and other engineering disciplines on troubleshooting, events analysis and engineering solutions
    • Participate in development and updates of test procedures, technical specifications, electrical codes and industry standards requirements interpretations, site-specific standards and practices developments
    • Lead electrical initiatives and collaborate with other engineering disciplines as well as operations and maintenance groups based on Nutrien/Industry standards, electrical codes and best practices (RAGAGEPs)
    • Knowledge of the RTAC system
    • Serve as site expert for various Control Systems, include but not limited to: Delta V, Tricon/CX, Siemens PCS7, Alen Bradly, Compressor controls, Woodward, Peak150/200, G11, and Bently Nevada
    • Develop, implement, and optimize control logic, interlocks, and advanced control strategies to improve process safety, reliability, and efficiency
    • Troubleshoot control system and instrumentation issues affecting process loops such as ammonia synthesis loops, reformers, absorbers, urea reactors, etc
    • Maintain control system documentation, loop drawings, and change management records
    • Possess an understanding and ability to work in virtual environments, Thin Manager services, and aid the site with Industrial Controls Systems cybersecurity readiness
    • Provide instrument engineering support for various field devices and installations, including but not limited to: Engineered Control Valves, Various flow elements, Thermowell Design, and Analytical measurements of the process
    • Stay abreast on new and changing instrument technology
    • Knowledge in various programming languages, ladder logic, function block, C&E, batch, and sequential function block
    • Lead and support DCS and SIS scope for capital projects and system modernization efforts
    • Define control narratives, I/O lists, and interface specifications for new installations and revamps
    • Support FAT/SAT testing, commissioning, and startup of new process control systems
    • Collaborate with EPC firms and system vendors to ensure design consistency with site standards
    • Ensure all automation changes comply with MOC procedures, and safety instrumentation shall comply with ISA 84 / IEC 61511 requirements
    • Participate in PHA, SILD, and SIS lifecycle activities, including SIF validation and proof testing
    • Support alarm management, trip testing, and control system cybersecurity initiatives
    • Provide real-time troubleshooting and optimization support to operations and maintenance
    • Analyze process data and recommend control improvements to reduce variability and increase production efficiency

What You'll Bring:
    • BSc. in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Control Systems Engineering
    • 5+ years of Electrical & Instrumentation engineer experience in a fertilizer industry or large-scale process/chemical plant
    • Strong understanding of process instrumentation and control loops
    • Experience applying ISA 84 / IEC 61511 functional safety standards and supporting MOC/PSM activities
    • Familiar with PLC/DCS network architecture, Modbus/OPC communication, and control system cybersecurity best practices

Ready to make an impact with us? Apply today!
The estimated salary that Indeed, Glassdoor and LinkedIn lists does not represent Nutrien's compensation structure. Nutrien is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, and other legally protected categories.
This job will remain posted until filled. In accordance with Nutrien policies, you will be required to undergo a background check, and may be required to undergo a substance test. While we appreciate all applications we receive, only candidates under consideration will be contacted. Applicants must meet minimum age requirements, as permitted by law.
Our Recruitment Process: Application > Resume Review > Pre-screen/Interview > Offer > Pre-Employment Conditions > Welcome to Nutrien
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