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Associate Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Unum UK

Senior Software Engineer - Java/J2EE

Columbia, SC · On-site

$115K - $152K/yr

Mentor Software Engineers and Associate Engineers * Maintain accountability for solution quality from design through production * Communicate and collaborate with key stakeholders throughout feature ...

Pwc

Data Engineer - Senior Associate

Columbia, SC · On-site

$77K - $202K/yr

Industry/Sector Not Applicable Specialism Data, Analytics & AI Management Level Senior Associate & Summary At PwC, our people in data and analytics engineering focus on leveraging advanced ...

Pwc

Data Engineer - Senior Associate

Columbia, SC

$77K - $202K/yr

Industry/Sector Not Applicable Specialism Data, Analytics & AI Management Level Senior Associate & Summary The Opportunity As a Data Engineer - Senior Associate, you will focus on designing and ...

RS&H

Highway Engineering Associate I

Columbia, SC · Hybrid

The Opportunity RS&H is currently seeking a Civil Highway Engineering Associate to join our team in Columbia, SC. This position will have the ability to work a hybrid schedule of in-office and remote.

RS&H

Highway Engineering Associate I

Columbia, SC · On-site

The Opportunity RS &H is currently seeking a Civil Highway Engineering Associate to join our team in Columbia, SC. This position will have the ability to work a hybrid schedule of in-office and ...

RS&H

Highway Engineering Associate I

Columbia, SC · On-site

The Opportunity RS&H is currently seeking a Civil Highway Engineering Associate to join our team in Columbia, SC. This position will have the ability to work a hybrid schedule of in-office and remote.

RS&H

Highway Engineering Associate I

Columbia, SC · Hybrid

The Opportunity RS &H is currently seeking a Civil Highway Engineering Associate to join our team in Columbia, SC. This position will have the ability to work a hybrid schedule of in-office and ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Engineer JobsAssociate Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Associate Engineer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$38.4K

$76.5K

$122.1K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate 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 an associate engineer?

Associate Engineers are entry-level engineering professionals who support more experienced engineers in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining various projects in their field. They typically work under supervision and assist with tasks such as drafting technical documents, conducting research, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Associate Engineers often gain practical experience and training to advance to higher-level engineering roles as they develop their skills.

What is the difference between Associate Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAssociate EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; entry-level certificationsBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; professional licensure (optional)
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and support roles in engineering teams; often in office or lab settingsDesign, analysis, and manufacturing in industrial or construction settings
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position across various industries like manufacturing, construction, and techDesign and development roles primarily in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors

The main difference between an Associate Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Engineers are typically entry-level, focusing on supporting engineering tasks, while Mechanical Engineers have more experience and handle complex design and analysis responsibilities. Both roles require a bachelor's degree, but Mechanical Engineers often pursue licensure for advanced roles. The choice depends on your experience level and career goals within engineering fields.

What are some typical challenges associate engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to industry roles?

Associate Engineers often find the transition from academic projects to industry roles challenging due to differences in project scope, teamwork dynamics, and pace. In industry, you’ll likely work on larger, multi-disciplinary teams where effective communication and collaboration are crucial. Additionally, projects often have stricter deadlines and require adherence to established processes and standards, which may be less emphasized in academic settings. Embracing continuous learning and seeking mentorship from senior engineers can help ease this transition and set you up for success.

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

To thrive as an Associate Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, industry-specific tools, and basic project management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering accurate technical solutions and contributing effectively to engineering projects.
More about Associate Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC? For Associate Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Associate Engineer job openings:
Associate Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Columbia, SC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,450 per year, or $36.8 per hour.

Associate Engineer, Engineer, Senior Engineer, Staff Engineer

Dominion Energy

West Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Dominion Energy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description

Dominion Energy is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean energy that powers our customers every day. If you want to work for a purpose-driven company that values safety and collaboration, we're looking for you. You won't just find a job here; you'll find your career. Review the position below and apply today.
Military service members and veterans with ranks from E3-E5, W1-W2, or O1-O3, plus appropriate equivalent combination of education and years of experience as outlined below will be considered for this opportunity.
Job Summary
We are seeking an Engineer for our Electric Distribution Planning team who understands power fundamentals and is motivated to learn and improve the electric system. You will be responsible for planning and optimizing the electric distribution grid to provide safe and reliable power. This position is located in West Columbia, South Carolina. There is one position available and will be filled at the level commensurate with the successful candidate's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead distribution system planning efforts including load capacity analysis, system protection, and reliability improvements
  • Drive capital planning and system improvement prioritization
  • Support budgeting, project management, and work management system enhancements
  • Collaborate with substation and transmission planning to support distribution growth
  • Field work includes programming and troubleshooting electronic controls on reclosers, voltage regulators, ATOs, and more
  • Work on technology roadmaps and implementation, collaborating on SCADA, ADMS/FLISR, AMI, and other initiatives to improve the distribution system and operations
  • Participate in special projects such as energy storage, federal grant initiatives, and economic development requests
  • Support DER integration including technical vetting, system impact studies, policy development, and stakeholder engagement
  • Support storm restoration efforts with responsibilities aligned with CQ-level engineers and CPDs

The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in technical writing, engineering software tools, and basic programming. Strong foundational knowledge in electrical systems and analytical problem-solving are essential. This role also requires effective communication skills for internal presentations and occasional customer-facing engagements.
Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Experience
The knowledge, skills, abilities and experience required for entry into this job include the following:
  • Associate Engineer
    0-2+ years
    • Basic knowledge of engineering principles, concepts, and theory
    • Strong written and verbal communication (including technical writing)
    • Effective problem-solving, analytical thinking, and decision-making skills
    • Proficiency with standard computer applications and engineering software
    • Ability to interpret codes, regulations, and industry practices
    • Developing skills in project planning, organization, and multi-tasking
    • Ability to apply engineering concepts to complex problems and work in a team environment

    Engineer
    2+ years and FE
    • Performs and reviews engineering design, analysis, calculations, and research
    • Develops cost analyses and recommendations for management review
    • Applies standard engineering methods with moderate independent judgment
    • Handles moderately complex problems with defined objectives and limited variables
    • Prioritizes tasks and adapts established techniques as needed
    • Works under general supervision with increasing independence and responsibility

    Senior Engineer
    5+ years and FE
    • Leads and coordinates complex projects to meet cost and schedule targets
    • Applies advanced engineering knowledge and develops new approaches to problems
    • Independently evaluates, adapts, and modifies standard methods and criteria
    • Provides technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance to junior engineers
    • Ensures compliance with engineering standards, codes, and regulations
    • May serve as a technical expert for major projects or external regulatory matters

    Staff Engineer
    8+ years and PE
    • Recognized technical expert with deep knowledge of engineering principles and practices
    • Leads complex, high-impact projects and provides strategic technical direction
    • Expert in advanced engineering methods and application of related disciplines
    • Strong leadership in project management, planning, and organizational execution
    • Advises management and engineers on technical, financial, and contractual matters
    • Demonstrates advanced problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills
    • Highly effective working independently and across teams while managing multiple priorities

Education Requirements
Required Degree (equivalency not accepted in lieu of required degree):
Bachelor's in Engineering Mechanical Engineer / Electrical Engineer
Other disciplines may be substituted for the preferred discipline(s) listed above.
REQUIRED ENGINEERING CRITERIA: For placement of a candidate in the Engineer job series, the following criteria must be met:
  • Possess a 4-year Engineering degree from an ABET accredited Engineering program based on the year that the Engineering program was accredited by ABET, or
  • Possess a 4-year Engineering degree from an institution outside of the U.S. which is accredited through the country's own Engineering accrediting body under the Washington Accord as a full signatory, and is a degree that was recognized by the country's accrediting body on or after the date that full signatory status was achieved, or
  • Possess a 4-year degree in Engineering (non-ABET accredited), Physics, Chemistry, Math or Engineering Technology and a post-graduate Engineering degree from an institution where the undergraduate degree in the same Engineering discipline is ABET-accredited based on the year the Engineering program was accredited by ABET, or
  • Holds or has previously held a valid U.S. Professional Engineer license.

Licenses, Certifications, or Quals Description
Note: Dominion Energy minimum experience and education requirements may exceed stated ANSI standards and candidates must meet the Dominion Energy minimum requirements.
For Nuclear employees, this ANSI standard must be met, all of which is met or exceeded in the Engineer series job summaries with the exception of the Nuclear Power experience requirement of at least 1 year:
ANSI/ANS-3.1-2014, Section 4.6.1 Education requirements: Baccalaureate or associate degree in engineering or related science. Minimum experience for the position: Related experience which shall include 2 years; Nuclear power plant experience to include 1 year.
Working Conditions
Cold Up to 25%
Confined spaces Up to 25%
Dust / Grease / Oil Up to 25%
Energized Wires Up to 25%
Fumes Up to 25%
Heat Up to 25%
Loud Noise Up to 25%
Office Work Environment 76 -100%
Outdoors Up to 25%
Pressurized Lines & Valves Up to 25%
Travel Up to 25%
Other Working Conditions
Test Description
No Testing
Export Control
Certain positions at Dominion Energy may involve access to information and technology subject to export controls under U.S. law. Compliance with these export controls may result in Dominion Energy limiting its consideration of certain applicants.
Other Information
We offer excellent plans and programs for employees. Employees are rewarded with a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package which may include: health benefits with coverage for families and domestic partners, vacation, retirement plans, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, and much more. To learn more about our benefits, click here dombenefits.com.
Dominion Energy is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin and/or status as a protected veteran or individual with a disability.
You can experience the excitement of our company - it's the difference between taking a job and starting a career.
Top 3 Reasons to Work at Dominion Energy
There are many reasons to work at Dominion Energy, but below are the top three reasons employees have shared with us. Click on each of the links to learn more!
1. Safety Centric Work Environment
2. Generous Pay and Benefits
3. Collaborative & Inclusive Culture
About Dominion Energy
I am your warm cup of coffee in the morning and I light your home at night. I am the cool breeze from your A/C on the hottest day in summer, and the red coil that heats your soup pot on a frigid winter's day. I am sustainable, reliable and affordable.
I am not just any energy... I am Dominion Energy.
We're transforming the way we do business to build a more sustainable future for the planet, our customers, our team and our industry. We're shaping the future of energy in America.
Join us!
Facts:
• 17,000 employees
• Headquarters: Richmond, VA
• 16 states in the US
• $100 billion of assets
• Nearly $35 million in charitable contributions
• 100,000+ volunteer hours recorded in the community
Our Commitment to NetZero by 2050
Dominion Energy is committed to helping address climate change. We have cut emissions sharply as we aim for Net Zero carbon and methane emissions by 2050. Learn more at sustainability.dominionenergy.com.

What Dominion Energy employees say

Pay

Benefits

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About Dominion Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a leader in the clean energy transition, with a clear strategy to achieve Net Zero carbon and methane emissions. Headquartered in Richmond, VA, we're creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Richmond, VA, US

Year founded

1983

Social media

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