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Entry Level Process Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC

... process. · Ability to identify value-engineering alternatives. · Ability to work as a team. · ... Education and Experience : this position typically is not an entry-level job as it requires ...

... process. • Ability to identify value-engineering alternatives. • Ability to work as a team. • ... Education and Experience : this position typically is not an entry-level job as it requires ...

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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 Jun 10, 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 Does an Entry-Level Process Engineer Do?

An entry-level process engineer studies the processes an organization uses for manufacturing. As an entry-level process engineer, you monitor and report on manufacturing process equipment, production methods, and chemical interactions. Your responsibilities include evaluating the safety of manufacturing processes, determining efficiency, and making recommendations on improvements across all areas of manufacturing. Your duties also include troubleshooting problems in the manufacturing process, developing and implementing changes, and ensuring company-wide safety. You collaborate with teams to devise solutions to production challenges and adhere to regulations and production standards.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,129 per year, or $40.9 per hour.
Project Estimator

Project Estimator

CONTOUR

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description:

Key Duties

· Experience working for a Heavy Civil Contractor as an estimator bidding on site work projects required.

· Estimating projects that will typically range from $500,000 to $20,000,000 including subsequent change orders.

· Estimating self-performed work to include pricing the labor, equipment, and material costs.

· Ability to solicit, review and prioritize material and subcontractor quotations for management review.

· Working knowledge of construction assemblies and all project phases.

· Ability to produce accurate estimates from conceptual and schematic drawings.

· Ability to produce detailed, final contract estimates.

· Ability to assess site exposures/construction risks and be able to appropriately analyze cost and reflect these in an estimate.

· Ability to identify constructability issues through the estimating process.

· Ability to identify value-engineering alternatives.

· Ability to work as a team.

· Ability to read, write and communicate effectively.

· Must be proficient in Microsoft Project or Primavera, Excel, Word, and Adobe.

· Must have experience with Agtek, Trimble Business Center, Carlson, Cad or any other takeoff / modeling software.

· Ability to prepare construction handoff package after award and respond to field questions regarding takeoff subcontractor and vendor pricing as well as strategies used to prepare the cost estimate.

· Work experience on HCSS or B2W software a plus.

· Travel within SC, NC, and GA may be required.

Qualification Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each Key Duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience: this position typically is not an entry-level job as it requires demonstrable previous experience as an Estimator. A four-year degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering or equivalent required. Must be able to understand work directions and communicate effectively with management and fellow employees. Experience working for a Heavy Civil Contractor as an estimator is required. This position requires you to be experienced in estimating grading, utilities and demolition. Typical projects are site development, industrial, commercial development, utilities, mining reclamation, overburden removal, demolition and general site work. Valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record are mandatory.

Physical Demands: the following physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an Estimator to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

· Regularly required to sit and/or stand during a regular work shift of at least eight hours per day.

· Employee is occasionally required to stoop, bend, walk, crouch, and climb.

· Ability to lift, on a frequent basis, at least 50 lbs. and carry up to 15 lbs.

Work Environment: the work environment characteristics described below are representative of those that an Estimator encounters while performing the essential functions of this job:

· Work is performed typically indoors.

· The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

· Employee may be required to perform site visits for prebid and customer meetings, field verification of project bid documents and development of future project or change order proposals.


**This is not a remote position**

Requirements: