ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Professional Engineering Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Schnabel Inc.

Engineering Technician

West Columbia, SC

$16 - $22/hr

Schnabel is an employee-owned, professional engineering and consulting firm that focuses on solving problems related to the earth and environment through specialization in geotechnical, geostructural ...

ECS Ltd

Principal Engineer, Geotechnical

Lexington, SC · On-site

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Geological Engineering, or a related field. * Professional Engineer (PE) license is required; Professional Geologist (PG ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProfessional Engineering JobsProfessional Engineering Jobs in Columbia, SC

Professional Engineering information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$43K

$89.8K

$126.3K

How much do professional engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional engineering in Columbia, SC is $89,797.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,300.00 and $101,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges professional engineers face when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Professional engineers often collaborate with teams from different disciplines, such as architects, construction managers, and environmental specialists. One common challenge is ensuring effective communication across these diverse teams, as each may have its own technical language and priorities. Additionally, coordinating project timelines and integrating various technical requirements can be complex. Developing strong project management and interpersonal skills is key to overcoming these hurdles and delivering successful outcomes.

What can professional engineers do?

Professional engineers design, develop, and evaluate systems, structures, and products across various industries such as civil, mechanical, electrical, and software engineering. They apply technical knowledge, use engineering tools, and often require licensure to approve projects and ensure safety standards are met.

What is the difference between Professional Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectProfessional EngineeringMechanical Engineering
CredentialsRequires PE license, degree, work experience, examRequires degree, possibly internship, but not necessarily PE license
Work EnvironmentDesign, review, and approve engineering projects; often in consulting or governmentDesign, analysis, manufacturing, and testing of mechanical systems
Industry UsageUsed across multiple engineering disciplines, especially in regulated projectsPrimarily in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors

Professional Engineering (PE) is a licensed credential that allows engineers to sign off on projects and work independently, often in consulting or regulatory roles. Mechanical Engineering is a specific discipline focused on designing and analyzing mechanical systems. While many mechanical engineers pursue PE licensure, it is not mandatory for all roles. The main difference lies in licensure and scope of practice, with PE providing legal authority to approve projects.

What is professional engineering?

Professional engineering refers to the practice of applying scientific and mathematical principles to design, develop, and oversee projects in various engineering fields. Professional engineers (PEs) are licensed individuals who have met education, experience, and examination requirements, allowing them to take legal responsibility for engineering work. They ensure public safety, compliance with regulations, and uphold ethical standards. Obtaining a PE license often leads to greater career opportunities, leadership roles, and increased trust from employers and clients.

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

To thrive as a Professional Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and typically a relevant engineering degree along with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and project management tools, as well as knowledge of applicable codes and regulations, is essential. Strong communication, teamwork, and analytical thinking are valuable soft skills that set top performers apart. These competencies ensure engineers can design effective solutions, maintain safety and compliance, and collaborate efficiently on complex projects.

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

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

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Professional Engineering jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Professional Engineering job openings:

Professional Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Engineering job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,797 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Staff Professional/Engineering Technician

SUMMIT ECS, Inc.

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Company Description

SUMMIT is a multi-disciplinary engineering and consulting services group offering Environmental and Geotechnical Engineering, Subsurface Drilling, Construction Materials Testing, Chapter 17 Special Inspections, Advanced AASHTO, ACI, AMRL, CCRL and NCDOT Laboratory Testing, Residential and Retaining Wall Design, Structural and Forensic Inspections through our family of companies.

With our corporate headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina, branch office in Raleigh, North Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, Greenville, South Carolina and Columbia, South Carolina. Our wide range of professional service capabilities and our dedication to our clients and their projects we have become one of the regions most sought after consulting firms. Serving both the Public and Private sectors, our services are utilized on an extensive variety of projects with focus on the Residential, Commercial, Transportation, Multi-Family, Healthcare and Government industries.

Job Description

SUMMIT is looking to add an experienced CMT Technician/Inspector to our Columbia, SC location. The purpose of this position is to provide Construction Materials Testing, more specifically SCDOT Asphalt Testing to one of our premier clients. The is a new position that will contribute to expanding our service of Construction Services throughout the Carolina's. 

Job Responsibilities may include:

  • Responsible for scheduling all field work for various projects, such as foundations, construction materials testing, special inspections, or other geotechnical work.
  • Complete various field work as needed; this may include classifying soils from field density testing, proof roll observations, undercuts, construction materials testing, foundations checks, special inspections, etc. 
  • Coordinate and assist Project Managers with administration of projects such as invoices, proposals, project log, client list, etc. 
  • Complete accurate and detailed field testing reports and/or diagrams. 
  • Maintain daily communications with field staff, contractors and other project managers.

Additionally, this position reports to the Carolina's Regional Manager located in Greenville, SC. We are looking for an individual that is experienced with Construction Materials Testing and can work very independently. Training for this position will be provided out of Greenville, SC and Charlotte, NC offices. 


Qualifications

Education: Preferred 4-year degree program in Civil Engineering or relevant. Will substitute less education with relevant job experience. 

Certifications: Must be certified in SCDOT Asphalt; prefer experienced technician with CMT certifications or Engineer in Training (EI). 

Experience: With an Engineer in Training (E.I.) Certification, must have two years of work experience, with less than an E.I., must have 6-8 years of relevant job experience. 

Skills:

  • Ability to calculate results from construction materials testing data
  • Ability to read and interpret construction documents
  • Ability to accurately complete field testing paperwork and detailed figures
  • Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.
  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers and the general public.
  • Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business memos and proposals. 
  • Ability to write reports, business correspondence 
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel

  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. as needed

  • Will be exposed to various temperatures outside, must be able to work in changing environments. 

Additional Information

SUMMIT offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental & vision insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays. The SUMMIT is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply