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Product Development Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Samtec, Inc

Connector Product Design Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site +1

$119K - $143K/yr

We are seeking a highly experienced Product Design Engineer to lead the development of advanced interconnect solutions that power cutting-edge technologies across high-speed data, power delivery ...

Samtec, Inc

Connector Product Design Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site +1

$119K - $143K/yr

We are seeking a highly experienced Product Design Engineer to lead the development of advanced interconnect solutions that power cutting-edge technologies across high-speed data, power delivery ...

Carolina Power Systems

Mechanical Engineer

Sumter, SC · On-site

The Mechanical Engineer works throughout the complete product lifecycle - from concept development and engineering analysis through manufacturing, factory acceptance testing, installation support ...

CAROLINA POWER SYSTEMS

Mechanical Engineer

Sumter, SC · Hybrid

The Mechanical Engineer works throughout the complete product lifecycle - from concept development and engineering analysis through manufacturing, factory acceptance testing, installation support ...

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All JobsProduct Development Engineer JobsProduct Development Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Product Development Engineer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$36.5K

$81.3K

$122.6K

How much do product development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for product development engineer in Columbia, SC is $81,305.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,600.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a product development engineer?

A product development engineer designs manufactured goods by integrating market research to deliver products that will meet company goals. As a product development engineer, you will be working on all stages of the production process, from research and development to prototype testing and quality assurance. You may work in any number of fields, from the automotive industry or medical device manufacturing to developing new soaps or food products. Typically, you work as part of a team, sometimes leading a group of engineers through the design and production process. Your duties include creating drafts and blueprints, assessing proper materials, setting goals, and researching competitive products.

What does a product development engineer do?

A Product Development Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing new products or improving existing ones. They work closely with cross-functional teams such as design, manufacturing, and marketing to bring innovative products from concept to production. Their tasks often include prototyping, conducting feasibility studies, addressing technical challenges, and ensuring that products meet quality and safety standards. Product Development Engineers play a crucial role in transforming ideas into market-ready products that fulfill customer needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a product development engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Product Development Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, product design, and project management, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering fields. Proficiency with CAD software, prototyping tools, and familiarity with product lifecycle management (PLM) systems are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across teams and innovate solutions. These skills and qualities are essential for efficiently developing market-ready products that meet user needs and business objectives.

How does a product development engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product lifecycle?

Product Development Engineers work closely with teams such as design, manufacturing, marketing, and quality assurance throughout the product lifecycle. They often facilitate communication to ensure that product specifications align with customer needs and production capabilities. Regular meetings and collaborative problem-solving sessions are common, as these engineers help translate technical requirements into actionable plans. This collaborative approach not only streamlines development but also fosters innovation and ensures the final product meets both technical and market expectations.

What is the difference between Product Development Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectProduct Development EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Industrial, or related engineering; often some experience in product designBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; licensure optional for certain roles
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing settings, cross-functional teamsDesign offices, manufacturing plants, research labs
Industry UsageProduct design, consumer electronics, automotive, aerospaceMechanical systems, HVAC, manufacturing equipment, automotive

Product Development Engineers focus on designing and developing new products, often working closely with cross-functional teams to bring concepts to market. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on mechanical systems and components across various industries. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Product Development Engineers typically emphasize product design and innovation, whereas Mechanical Engineers may work on a wider range of mechanical systems.

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Product Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Product Development Engineer job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,305 per year, or $39.1 per hour.

Development Engineer

Pure Power Technologies Inc

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Product Development Engineer

Position Purpose:

Owns technical and analytical execution for assigned Product Development Engineering projects, driving problems to resolution and escalating only issues that require next-level authority or cross-functional decision-making beyond the role's scope.

Acts as the lead technical point of contact across design, process, manufacturing, test, quality, and marketing functions, coordinating these groups as products move from concept through production and distribution. Responsible for keeping cross-functional stakeholders aligned on project status, risks, and decisions throughout each phase.

Holds end-to-end ownership of assigned products across their full lifecycle — including initial development, production launch, and subsequent modifications, upgrades, and sustaining maintenance — ensuring continuity of technical ownership rather than handing off between phases or teams.

Manages project scope, schedule, and technical risk for assigned initiatives, proactively identifying issues and driving them to closure rather than waiting for direction. Expected to independently plan and sequence the technical work required to meet program milestones.

Responsibilities of the Position:

  • Conduct reengineering to produce models and drawings for existing products
  • Develop and coordinate the validation testing for new product launches
  • Provide support for newly launched products to improve first-pass yield and manufacturing efficiency
  • Provide engineering support and drive cost reduction of existing products
  • Investigate the scope and risks associated with potential new products to assist in the development of a business case
  • Cost reduction initiatives on current products
  • New business initiatives investigations

Minimum Requirements:

  • BS Engineering Degree, BSME preferred
  • 3 years’ experience on component-level design and launch to production
  • Experience with CAD modeling and drawing creation
  • Experience with developing validation requirements for products

Knowledge and Capabilities:

Knowledge of DVP&R and DFMEA tools

Knowledge of APQP/Launch processes

3D Cad modeling and Drawing, experience with Pro Engineer a plus


Stanadyne is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, gender, color, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other protected class.