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Electrical Engineer Trainee Jobs in Columbia, SC

... Electrical, Sprinkler or Suppression life safety product lines as well as similar competitive ... Make minor repairs and programming changes to systems being inspected. * Provide technical training ...

... Electrical, Sprinkler or Suppression life safety product lines as well as similar competitive ... Make minor repairs and programming changes to systems being inspected. * Provide technical training ...

... Electrical, Sprinkler or Suppression life safety product lines as well as similar competitive ... Make minor repairs and programming changes to systems being inspected. * Provide technical training ...

Electrical Engineer Trainee information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$46.7K

$102.8K

$155.4K

How much do electrical engineer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical engineer trainee in Columbia, SC is $102,774.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,800.00 and $122,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an electrical engineer trainee?

Electrical Engineer Trainees are entry-level professionals who work under the supervision of experienced electrical engineers to gain practical experience and develop their technical skills. They assist with designing, testing, and maintaining electrical systems and equipment in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy. Their responsibilities may include preparing technical drawings, conducting experiments, troubleshooting issues, and learning industry standards. This role serves as a foundation for advancing to more senior engineering positions. Electrical Engineer Trainees often participate in training programs or internships as part of their career development.

What do electrical engineer trainees do?

As an Electrical Engineer Trainee, you can expect to be involved in a variety of tasks such as assisting with circuit design, supporting testing and troubleshooting of electrical systems, and preparing technical documentation under the guidance of senior engineers. You’ll likely rotate through different projects to gain exposure to multiple aspects of electrical engineering, from power distribution to control systems. Collaboration is key, as you’ll frequently work alongside more experienced engineers, technicians, and sometimes cross-functional teams like mechanical or software engineers. This hands-on experience helps build a solid foundation for future advancement within the company or industry.

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

To thrive as an Electrical Engineer Trainee, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals, problem-solving ability, and typically a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and circuit simulation software, along with knowledge of safety standards, is important. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help trainees excel and integrate into engineering teams. These skills and qualities enable effective project support, ensure compliance with technical and safety requirements, and foster professional growth in a demanding field.

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

AspectElectrical Engineer TraineeElectrical Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed a degree in electrical engineeringBachelor's degree or higher in electrical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship or entry-level position, often in training programsFull-time professional role in design, development, or testing
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with projects, learning technical skills, supporting senior engineersDesigning circuits, analyzing systems, managing projects independently

The main difference is that an Electrical Engineer Trainee is in a learning or entry-level phase, focusing on gaining experience, while an Electrical Engineer is a fully qualified professional responsible for designing and managing electrical systems.

How to get into electrical engineer trainee with no experience?

To become an electrical engineer trainee with no experience, focus on obtaining a relevant degree such as electrical engineering or electronics, and develop practical skills through internships, projects, or certifications like OSHA or EIT. Gaining familiarity with industry tools like CAD software and demonstrating a willingness to learn can improve your chances when applying for entry-level positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Electrical Engineer Trainee jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Electrical Engineer Trainee jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Electrical Engineer Trainee jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Electrical Engineer Trainee jobs in Columbia, SC are:

Infographic showing various Electrical Engineer Trainee job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,774 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Fire Detection Inspector

Johnson Controls

West Columbia, SC • On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 410 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

138th of 543 rated manufacturers


Job description

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, helps customers use energy more productively, reduce carbon emissions, and operate with the precision and resilience required in rapidly expanding industries such as data centers, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, and higher education.

For more than 140 years, Johnson Controls has delivered performance where it really matters. Backed by advanced technology, lifecycle services and an industry-leading field organization, we elevate customer performance, turn goals into real-world results and help move society forward.

What you will do

Inspectors are responsible for conducting routine inspections, testing, service, and preventative maintenance on Electrical, Sprinkler or Suppression life safety product lines as well as similar competitive manufacturers’ product lines.

How you will do it

  • Work with low voltage wiring and associated devices for the operation of low voltage equipment.
  • Complete Service Acknowledgements with proper coding through communication devices such as laptop computers and/or hard copy.
  • Follow and maintain a highly structured inspection schedule.
  • Input, retrieve and archive inspection documents via mobile device.
  • Make minor repairs and programming changes to systems being inspected.
  • Provide technical training to less senior inspectors and trainees.
  • Complete assigned inspections on time.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

What we look for

Required

  • 2+ years of Installation or Service Experience in testing and inspecting Fire Alarm Equipment.
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Capable of performing physical labor to include carrying and moving equipment and tools up to 50-70 lbs.
  • Able to work in unusual and sometimes difficult position such as climbing ladders, scaffolding and high lift equipment up to 40 feet, working within ducts, crawl spaces, above ceilings, etc.
  • Ability to work flexible hours including weekends to meet customer requirements.
  • Willing to travel out of town including overnight lodging.
  • Demonstrate a high level of customer service.
  • Ability to adhere to, implement, and follow safety guidelines and procedures at all times.
  • Strong organizational skills, positive attitude, and an ability to learn quickly.
  • Possess a valid driver’s license and driving record that meets company requirements.
  • Able to obtain and retain any licenses that are required by National, State and Local codes.
  • Moderate level of experience with computer software and technology.

Preferred

  • NICET Level certification.

HIRING HOURLY RANGE: $18-$25 (Hourly rate to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.) This position includes a competitive benefits package. The posted salary range reflects the target compensation for this role. However, we recognize that exceptional candidates may bring unique skills and experiences that exceed the typical profile. If you believe your background warrants consideration beyond the stated range, we encourage you to apply. To support an efficient and fair hiring process, we may use technology assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to help identify and evaluate candidates. All hiring decisions are ultimately made by human reviewers. For details, please visit the About Us tab on the Johnson Controls Careers site at https://jobs.johnsoncontrols.com/about-us

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About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US