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Entry Level Process Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Data Engineer - Senior Associate

Columbia, SC · On-site

$77K - $202K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... data processing and analysis. You will be responsible for developing and implementing data ... PwC does not intend to hire experienced or entry level job seekers who will need, now or in the ...

Engineering Associate I

Columbia, SC · On-site

$61K - $88K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... entry-level work by developing and planning for analysis and evaluation of industrial sources of ... The education must qualify the applicant to become registered as a Professional Engineer in South ...

Engineering Associate I

Columbia, SC · On-site

$61K - $88K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

An engineer in training (EIT) is desirable along with the ability and educational background to ... Act; knowledge of industrial processes and the associated pollution control equipment)

Field Engineer

Sumter, SC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Position Description At Thompson Construction we seek entry level individuals who are eager to ... If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources at ...

AI & GenAI Data Scientist-Senior Associate

Columbia, SC · On-site

$77K - $202K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Industrial Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or Mathematical Statistics, Data Processing ... PwC does not intend to hire experienced or entry level job seekers who will need, now or in the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Process Engineer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$45.8K

$85.1K

$131.8K

How much do entry level process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level process engineer in Columbia, SC is $85,129.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,900.00 and $95,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Process Engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in chemical, mechanical, or industrial engineering and a solid understanding of process design and optimization fundamentals. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen HYSYS or MATLAB) and knowledge of safety and quality standards are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in project environments. These skills ensure efficient process improvements, adherence to safety protocols, and successful collaboration within engineering teams.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level process engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level process engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to complex technical systems, understanding industry-specific regulations, and learning to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams. They may also need to quickly grasp company-specific processes and standards while balancing multiple projects under tight deadlines. Seeking mentorship, asking questions, and actively participating in team meetings can help new engineers overcome these hurdles and accelerate their professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Process Engineer vs Process Technician?

AspectEntry Level Process EngineerProcess Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldTechnical diploma or associate degree
Work EnvironmentDesign, analyze, and optimize processes; often involved in project planningOperate and monitor manufacturing equipment; troubleshoot issues
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical, pharmaceutical industriesManufacturing plants, production facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in process optimizationCompared for hands-on operational roles

In summary, Entry Level Process Engineers focus on designing and improving processes with a bachelor's degree, while Process Technicians handle daily operations and troubleshooting with technical diplomas. Both roles are essential in manufacturing industries but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What does an entry level process engineer do?

An Entry Level Process Engineer assists in designing, implementing, and optimizing processes within manufacturing or production environments. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers to analyze workflows, improve efficiency, ensure safety standards, and troubleshoot production issues. Their responsibilities may also include collecting and interpreting data, preparing technical reports, and supporting quality control measures. This role provides hands-on experience and foundational skills in process engineering, often serving as a starting point for a career in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC? For Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Entry Level Process Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Process Engineer job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,129 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Entry-Level Bridge / Structural Engineer

Mead & Hunt

Lexington, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Mead & Hunt rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

279th of 447 rated engineering


Job description

Established in 1900, Mead & Hunt is a nationally recognized professional services consulting firm providing comprehensive planning, design, and construction solutions across a diverse range of sectors. From architecture, food and beverage processing, and federal projects to transportation, water infrastructure, and beyond, our innovative methodologies deliver cost-effective, forward-thinking solutions that elevate both our clients and the communities we serve.
At Mead & Hunt, our culture is founded on prioritizing people, doing the right thing, and making decisions that make sense. As an employee-owned company, we emphasize flexibility, giving back to our communities, and fostering lasting relationships. Through various employee programs, we invest in the growth and well-being of our employees.
Mead & Hunt is currently looking for a highly motivated individual to join our Transportation team as an Entry Level Bridge/Structural Engineer in Lexington, SC.
Responsibilities include:
  • Develop plans, specifications, and cost estimates for bridge engineering projects.
  • Contribute to the preparation of comprehensive design reports.
  • Perform geometric design and related engineering tasks for bridge projects.
  • Conduct load rating analyses for bridges and culverts to evaluate structural integrity.

The successful candidate will have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, structural engineering or similar discipline from an accredited college or university or the ability to obtain within nine months of hire.
The ideal candidate will have any/all of the following:
  • EIT preferred
  • Designing/Drafting software (MicroStation preferred)
  • Transportation projects experience (specifically bridgework) and/or relevant coursework
  • MS Office Suite software
  • Effectively communicating both verbally and written with clients and colleagues
  • Collaborating in a team environment
  • Prioritizing and balancing multiple commitments
  • Bridge design tasks

Why Mead & Hunt?
  • Strong Company Culture
  • Robust Career Advancement, Training, & Growth Opportunities
  • Employee-Owned Firm
  • Flexible Schedules
  • Diverse Skillsets, One Company
  • Impressive Benefits Package

If you have strong communication and organizational skills, are self-motivated, and can work well both independently and as part of a team, complete the online application process for this job posting at www.meadhunt.com/careers.
Mead & Hunt proudly offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, paid sick leave, parental leave, a 401K plan with a generous company match, life and disability insurance, and an employee assistance program.
Mead & Hunt will not sponsor a visa (H-1B, etc.) for this position.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of applicable pre-employment screening requirements.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
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