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Associate Engineering Jobs in South Carolina (NOW HIRING)

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Associate Engineering information

See South Carolina salary details

$38.5K

$76.7K

$122.5K

How much do associate engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineering in South Carolina is $76,683.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,800.00 and $88,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate engineer do?

An Associate Engineer is an entry-level professional who assists in designing, developing, and maintaining engineering projects. They work under the supervision of senior engineers, helping with technical tasks such as drafting plans, conducting tests, and collecting data. Their responsibilities may also include troubleshooting issues, preparing reports, and ensuring projects comply with industry standards. Associate Engineers typically work in fields like civil, mechanical, electrical, or software engineering.

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

To thrive as an Associate Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and typically a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or MATLAB, and sometimes certifications like EIT (Engineer-in-Training), are commonly required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are soft skills that help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for successfully executing technical tasks, collaborating on projects, and supporting senior engineers in achieving organizational goals.

What are some typical challenges associate engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to real-world engineering teams?

Associate Engineers often find that moving from academic projects to professional engineering teams involves adapting to faster-paced timelines, working within established processes, and collaborating with colleagues from various disciplines. Unlike academic work, where projects might be more theoretical or self-directed, real-world engineering requires balancing multiple tasks, following industry standards, and communicating effectively to ensure project success. Over time, most associate engineers develop strong problem-solving and teamwork skills, which are essential for advancement and continued success in the field.

What is the difference between Associate Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectAssociate EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or diploma, some certificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, licensure often not required initially
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, technical support, manufacturing, constructionDesign, analysis, research, manufacturing, often more autonomous
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction firms, manufacturing companies, government agenciesEngineering firms, manufacturing, aerospace, automotive industries

Associate Engineering roles typically require an associate degree and focus on technical support and implementation tasks. Mechanical Engineering positions usually demand a bachelor's degree and involve design, analysis, and problem-solving responsibilities. Both roles are essential in engineering projects but differ in education level, scope, and responsibilities.

What can I do with an associate engineering degree?

An associate engineering degree prepares individuals for technician, technologist, or support roles in fields such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering. Graduates can work in design, testing, maintenance, or manufacturing environments, often using tools like CAD software and adhering to safety standards. The degree can also serve as a stepping stone to further education or certifications in specialized engineering areas.

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 experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced associates or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering jobs in South Carolina?

The most popular types of Engineering jobs in South Carolina are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineering jobs in South Carolina?

For Associate Engineering jobs in South Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in South Carolina are hiring for Associate Engineering jobs?

Cities in South Carolina with the most Associate Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Engineering job openings in South Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,683 per year, or $36.9 per hour.

Associate Engineer/Engineer/Senior Engineer

Dominion Energy

Gaston, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Dominion Energy rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th 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
Dominion Energy Columbia Energy Center located in Calhoun County is seeking a motivated engineer to fill the Plant Engineer position. The successful candidates will start at the level commensurate with their education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. The Engineer will be responsible for improving plant systems reliability and performance through applying sound engineering principles, reviewing operational changes to reduce potential risks, and assisting with the analysis of all plant systems. The engineer will need to be comfortable working in a team-oriented environment as follows:
The plant engineer works with both the operations and maintenance areas of the facility and will be actively involved with plant processes, operations, reliability, performance, and reporting of data. The plant engineer focusses on new design and installations, repair improvements to existing equipment, writing specifications, updating drawings, planning future projects, and supporting daily work of assigned projects. The plant engineer will also be actively involved in NERC reporting for the facility.
Common Job Activities:
  • Improvements that enhance the reliability and performance of plant systems and equipment. This includes becoming proficient with the plant DCS system and data/trending capabilities.
  • Coordinate with and provide technical assistance to operations and maintenance departments.
  • Assist and participate in equipment failure root cause analysis.
  • Manage and Document multiple projects from beginning through completion, including any changes made to plant equipment. This also includes capital project tracking and completion using PowerPlan.
  • Manage and maintain various spreadsheets utilized for recording and reporting environmental data. This includes using PI data archive and trending tools.
  • Monthly NERC reporting in coordination with the Operations Superintendent.
  • Performing other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Experience
Associate Engineer - Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Experience
  • 0-2 years of engineering experience.
  • Basic knowledge of engineering concepts, fundamentals and theory and must have the following skills:
    • Oral and written communication skills (including technical writing).
    • Effective decision-making skills.
    • Computer skills and application of software programs.
    • Analytical and abstract thinking skills.
    • Problem solving skills.
    • Ability to learn to apply engineering theories and concepts to complex problems.
    • Ability to interpret codes, regulations and practices.
    • Ability to develop effective planning, project and organization skills.
    • Ability to develop project management skills and to handle multiple tasks.
    • Ability to work within a team environment.
    • Will work at times in an industrial environment which can be hot, cold, noisy, and dirty.

Engineer - Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Experience
  • 2+ or more years of relevant engineering experience is required.
  • All requirements of Associate Engineer above, plus the following additional requirements:
    • Proficient knowledge and competency in application of engineering theories and principles, concepts, fundamentals, practices and procedures, as well as ingenuity to achieve project objectives.
    • Requires experience in an engineering position.
    • Understands and applies knowledge of configuration management.
    • Ability to perform engineering calculations using applicable software programs (e.g. Matlab, Excel, etc.).
    • Planning, organizational, and project management skills.
    • Ability to develop and exercise leadership skills.
    • Equally effective working independently or in a team environment.
    • Ability to process information quickly & effectively manage multiple tasks.

Senior Engineer - Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Experience
  • 5+ years of engineering experience.
  • All requirements of Associate Engineer and Engineer above, plus the following additional requirements:
    • Ability to plan, direct, and supervise design of major projects or parts of major projects, preparation of specifications, contracts, and work order requests.
    • Provides project supervision and review.
    • Ability to develop a thorough knowledge of the plant operating systems and processes.
    • Will interact with operations and maintenance personnel within the plant and with individuals from various departments elsewhere in the company.
    • Will develop and update budget and cash flows for assigned projects.

Education Requirements
Required: Bachelor's degree in engineering
• 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 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.
Preferred: Electrical Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, or Civil Engineer
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.
What You'll Get
Expected Hiring Base Salary Range:
Salary Range for Associate Engineer: $73,200-$116,900
Salary Range for Engineer: $81900 - $106400
Salary Range for Senior Engineer: $90,900-$145,300
The expected hiring base salary range is the range we anticipate hiring within for this position. The actual salary offered may vary based on factors such as the selected candidate's qualifications, skills, experience, and work location. This is not intended to represent the full salary range for the position or limit future compensation growth.
At Dominion Energy, we offer excellent plans and programs for employees. Employees are rewarded with a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package which includes: health, dental, and vision benefits with coverage for families and domestic partners, vacation, retirement plans including 401k contributions and matches, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, bonus eligibility, sick leave, and disability insurance. 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

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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

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