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Associate Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Sterling Engineering

Warehouse Associate

West Columbia, SC · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Warehouse Associate Location : West Columbia, SC Hire Type : Contract to HIre Shift : 1st Shift (7a ... Meet Your Recruiter Lauren Rexford Technical Recruiter I am a Recruiter at Sterling Engineering ...

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 · 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 ...

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 · 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 · Hybrid

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. As part of the ...

Tru by Hilton

Maintenance Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... associates, and guests. • You will promote enhanced guest satisfaction. • You will perform various engineering skills and construction trades. • You may train others in engineering skills and ...

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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 Sep 15, 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 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.

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.

How much does an associate engineer get paid?

An associate engineer's average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on industry, location, and experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries often increase with experience and additional responsibilities.

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

An associate engineer's degree prepares individuals for entry-level engineering roles such as technician, assistant engineer, or project support staff. These positions often involve tasks like drafting, testing, data analysis, and using tools like CAD software, with opportunities for on-the-job training and certification to advance in engineering fields.

What is the salary of an associate engineer?

The salary of an associate engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on factors such as industry, location, and experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced associates or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.
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 job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,476 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Engineer/Engineering Associate IV - 60018577

Columbia, SC • On-site

State of South Carolina
Public Administration • 10K+ employees
Learn more about State of South Carolinaexternal

$81K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

State Of South Carolina rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Responsibilities The Electrical Engineer, working in the Office of State Engineer, provides comprehensive guidance to customers in the procurement of design professional and construction services in full compliance with the State's Procurement Code. Ensures that all construction for the state is in accordance with the applicable Building Codes and are safe for people to work and live in. The person holding this position can work from either the Columbia office or an approved satellite office.

Duties: Guides state agencies by training, advice, and guidance, and reviewing documentation to ensure compliance with the procurement code, regulations, and procedures, as agencies procure construction-related services. Reviews design and bidding documents for state construction projects using the Building Codes and Standard adopted in the Manual for Planning and Execution of State Permanent Improvement (the Manual). Ensure the documents comply with all applicable life-safety and property protection requirements.

Guides state agencies in best practices of contract administration using knowledge gained from experience in the construction industry and training as well as guidance published in the Manual. Monitors state projects during construction to ensure the work complies with the building codes by reviewing inspection reports submitted by inspectors for notation of deficiencies and corrective action taken on deficiencies. Performs Certificate of Occupancy inspections at close of projects to assure building are safe to occupy under the standards of the Building Codes.

Minimum and Additional Requirements A bachelor's degree in engineering and advanced level engineering work experience, including experience in a technical supervisory capacity. Position requires registration (or ability to get registered) as Professional Engineer by the South Carolina State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Surveyors. (This will be verified prior to an offer being made to the selected candidate).

Preferred Qualifications Eight years' work experience as a licensed engineer or a master's degree in engineering and six years' work experience as a licensed engineer. Knowledge of the theories, principles, and methods of Electrical Engineering. Knowledge of state and federal laws, rules, and regulations governing Electrical Engineering project management for building construction of facility renovation projects.

Ability to oversee the work of subordinate engineers or architects. Ability to establish positive working relationship with design and construction consultants, state, local, and federal professional personnel, and other public and private section organizations and individuals. Ability to communicate effectively.

Additional Comments The State Fiscal Accountability Authority offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse and Children. 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year 15 days sick leave per year 13 paid holidays State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs

What State Of South Carolina employees say

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About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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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