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Temporary Electrical Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Alpek Polyester USA

Controls Engineer

Gaston, SC

$79K - $102K/yr

Responsibilities The Controls/DCS Engineer will be reportable to the Site Electrical Engineer and ... Interested applicants (or temporary employees) must meet eligibility requirements. Alpek Polyester ...

Alpek Polyester

Controls Engineer Job - Gaston, SC

Gaston, SC · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Responsibilities The Controls/DCS Engineer will be reportable to the Site Electrical Engineer and ... Interested applicants (or temporary employees) must meet eligibility requirements. Alpek Polyester ...

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All JobsElectrical Engineer JobsTemporary Electrical Engineer JobsTemporary Electrical Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Temporary Electrical Engineer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$46.7K

$102.8K

$155.4K

How much do temporary electrical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for temporary electrical engineer 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 a temporary electrical engineer?

Temporary electrical engineers are professionals hired for a limited period to work on specific electrical engineering projects or to cover short-term staffing needs. They perform tasks such as designing, testing, and overseeing the installation of electrical systems, much like permanent engineers, but their assignments are for a set duration. Temporary roles can be found in industries like construction, manufacturing, or utilities, especially when specialized expertise is needed for a particular project or during peak work periods. These positions offer flexibility for both employers and engineers and often lead to diverse work experiences.

What does a temporary electrical engineer do?

As a Temporary Electrical Engineer, you can expect to be assigned to projects that require immediate technical support, such as troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, assisting with system upgrades, or supporting new installations. Your daily responsibilities may include creating and reviewing electrical schematics, coordinating with other engineers and technicians, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. Since roles are often project-based, adaptability and the ability to quickly integrate into new teams are crucial. This position offers a valuable opportunity to gain exposure to diverse industries and technologies, which can expand your professional network and skill set for future permanent roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary electrical engineer?

To thrive as a Temporary Electrical Engineer, you need a solid grounding in electrical engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and typically a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard design software (such as AutoCAD or MATLAB), electrical codes, and relevant certifications (like EIT or PE) is often required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are vital soft skills for integrating quickly into new teams and projects. These skills and qualifications ensure that temporary engineers can deliver quality work efficiently, meet project deadlines, and maintain safety and compliance standards.

What is the difference between Temporary Electrical Engineer vs Electrical Technician?

AspectTemporary Electrical EngineerElectrical Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, possibly some certificationsTechnical diploma or associate degree, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, project planning, supervision on construction sitesInstallation, maintenance, troubleshooting in industrial or commercial settings
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, energy sectorManufacturing plants, maintenance companies, electrical service providers

Temporary Electrical Engineers focus on project design, planning, and supervision, often requiring a degree and engineering certifications. Electrical Technicians handle hands-on installation and maintenance tasks, typically with technical diplomas. While both roles work in electrical environments, their responsibilities and qualifications differ significantly.

Can you be a part-time temporary electrical engineer?

Yes, it is possible to work as a part-time temporary electrical engineer, depending on the employer’s needs and project requirements. Such roles often require relevant certifications, technical skills, and the ability to work flexible hours or on short-term contracts.

Is there a shortage in temporary electrical engineers?

Temporary electrical engineers are in moderate demand due to ongoing infrastructure projects and maintenance needs. The role often requires relevant certifications and skills in electrical systems, with opportunities fluctuating based on industry activity and project availability.

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 cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Temporary Electrical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Temporary Electrical Engineer job openings:

Temporary Electrical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Electrical Engineer job openings in Columbia, SC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,774 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Electrical Technical Specialist

Alpek Polyester USA

Gaston, SC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Alpek Polyester rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 100 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

We are seeking a motivated individual to join our Maintenance team based out of our Gaston, SC facility. The ideal candidate for the Electrical Technical Specialist will be results driven, motivated by technical challenges and they will use their excellent interpersonal communication, organizational, and strong problem-solving analytical skills to provide Electrical and Instrumentation technical support, research, and continuous improvement for their site.  ResponsibilitiesThe Electrical Technical Specialist will be reportable to the Electrical Engineer and have responsibilities for the following tasks: 
  • Completing plantwide technical support assignments
  • Troubleshooting instrument and controls equipment beyond the capabilities of Maintenance E&I forces, especially inverters, Coriolis flowmeters, analyzers, loss-in-weight feeders, and nuclear level devices, but also including any instrument-related, electrical, or problems of unknown origin.
  • Assists in management of hardware/software of various distributed control systems (DCS) and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) based control systems for critical manufacturing production facilities. 
  • Updates .pdf files of drawings, using Bluebeam (software), for the replacement of obsolete equipment, or when errors are found as maintenance/capital work is performed.  
  • Initiates, executes, and reviews Management of Changes as needed.  
  • Maintains Instrument, Power Panel, and Critical Controls databases, etc. 
  • Reviews engineering packages related to Electrical and Instrumentation equipment.  
  • Participates in Process Hazard Analyses.  
  • Executes projects while communicating effectively through Project Reporting System/Database.  
  • Writes procedures for maintenance and troubleshooting, train Non-exempt E&I as needed and spearhead shutdown efforts on critical devices.  
  • Monitors equipment technology for obsolescence and provides long term recommendations including critical spare parts exposure/risk.  
  • Prepares high voltage systems to be worked on by contractors, including de-energizing high voltage equipment, installing protective grounds, and monitoring procedures utilized by contractors. Assure assigned personnel observe and follow safety precautions and rules.  
  • Responds to emergency situations such as power outages in order to minimize or prevent loss of property, damage to plants, or disruption to life safety systems. Install, connect, operate and maintain a variety of electrical equipment including primary power distribution/transmission cables and equipment, portable engine generators, transformers, and high voltage switches.  
  • Performs work on various high voltage and peripheral low voltage systems/equipment up to 13.8KV, including installation, operation, maintenance and repair of distribution, and generation equipment including transformers, generators, circuit breakers, controls, and underground conductors. Ability to splice and terminate various types of high voltage multiphase power cable. 
Required SkillsRequired  
  • 5-10 years Industrial Mfg. work experience  
  • Strong advocate of Safe Work Practices 
  • Strong Leadership/Organizational Skills 
  • Must be self starter with high level of initiative  
  • Strong communication/interpersonal skills 
  • Computer Skills in Outlook Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) 
  • Strong Troubleshooting Skills 
  • Ability to work in fast paced, team oriented industrial environment  
  • Ability to handle diverse customers  
 
Preferred 
  • 2 year Associate in Applied Science – Industrial Electronics Technology or Equivalent  
  • 3-5 years Experience in Chemical or Paper Industry/Polymers preferred 
  • SAP Experience  
  • OSISOFT-PI Software Experience  
  • Maintenance Planning and Scheduling Experience 
  • Working knowledge of Root Cause Failure Analysis 
  • CAD Experience  
 
 
Alpek Polyester USA, LLC is a global leader in the production of PTA (Terephthalic Acid), PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) Resins, PET Recycling (rPET), and Specialty Polymers. This integrated business services customers all over the world using its global network of manufacturing entities within the Alpek Polyester umbrella. We are committed to improving people’s lives through our products, innovations, and a commitment to sustainability and protecting the environment. 
 
Alpek Polyester USA, LLC is headquartered in Charlotte, NC with manufacturing facilities in the Carolinas, Mississippi, Indiana, and Pennsylvania. 
 
Alpek Polyester USA, LLC is a division of Alpek, the petrochemicals and synthetic fibers business group of Alfa, S.A.B. de C.V., one of Mexico's largest corporations. 
 
Alpek Polyester USA, LLC is subject to US Department of Commerce export regulations and thus must hire individuals who meet national security requirements. Interested applicants (or temporary employees) must meet eligibility requirements. Alpek Polyester USA, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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