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Test Engineer Jobs in Charleston, SC (NOW HIRING)

Lead Engineer

Charleston, SC · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Test and evaluation of hardware systems * Development of engineering documentation and technical data packages * Experience leading multi-disciplinary engineering efforts and serving as a technical ...

Develop and execute test plans for validating system performance and reliability, including ... Education - Bachelor of Science in Engineering * Experience designing and testing AC and DC power ...

Showing results 21-40

Test Engineer information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$16

$41

$69

How much do test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for test engineer in Charleston, SC is $41.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $49.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a test engineer get paid?

The average salary for a test engineer varies by experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced test engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in technology and manufacturing sectors.

What is a test engineer?

Test Engineers are professionals responsible for evaluating and ensuring the quality of products, typically software or hardware, by designing and executing tests. They identify bugs, glitches, or any issues that might affect the user experience or product performance. Test Engineers also document test results, collaborate with developers to resolve issues, and help improve processes to prevent future problems. Their work is critical in delivering reliable and high-quality products to customers.

Is it hard to be a test engineer?

Becoming a test engineer requires strong attention to detail, knowledge of testing tools and methodologies, and often some programming skills. The role can be challenging due to the need to identify issues accurately and ensure software quality, but it is manageable with proper training and experience.

What is the difference between Test Engineer vs QA Analyst?

AspectTest EngineerQA Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field; certifications like ISTQBBachelor's in related fields; ISTQB certification common
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, testing labs, automation toolsQuality assurance teams, process documentation, testing environments
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, software firms, manufacturingIT services, software development, healthcare

Test Engineers focus on designing, executing, and automating tests to ensure software quality, often working closely with developers. QA Analysts primarily analyze quality processes, develop testing plans, and ensure compliance with standards. While both roles aim to improve product quality, Test Engineers are more technical and automation-oriented, whereas QA Analysts emphasize process and manual testing. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job role.

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

To thrive as a Test Engineer, you need a solid background in software development, quality assurance principles, and test case design, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with automated testing tools like Selenium, JUnit, or TestNG, as well as experience with bug tracking systems and scripting languages, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for identifying issues and collaborating with development teams. These skills ensure the delivery of reliable, high-quality products by efficiently detecting and resolving software defects.

How do test engineers typically collaborate with development and product teams during a project?

Test Engineers play a crucial role in cross-functional teams by working closely with developers and product managers throughout the software development lifecycle. They participate in requirement reviews, design discussions, and sprint planning meetings to ensure testability and clarity of features. Regular communication helps identify potential issues early, align on acceptance criteria, and prioritize testing efforts. This collaborative approach helps deliver higher-quality products and fosters a culture of continuous improvement.
What are the most commonly searched types of Test Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC? The most popular types of Test Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC are:
What job categories do people searching Test Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Test Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC are:
What cities near Charleston, SC are hiring for Test Engineer jobs? Cities near Charleston, SC with the most Test Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Test Engineer job openings in Charleston, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,120 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

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7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 537 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below for IMPORTANT additional information.
This is a Direct Hire Solicitation. This public notice is to gather applications that may or may not result in a referral or selection.Qualifications:BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT:
A. Degree: Engineering. To be acceptable, the program must: (1) lead to a bachelor's degree in a school of engineering with at least one program accredited by ABET; or (2) include differential and integral calculus and courses (more advanced than first-year physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics: (a) statics, dynamics; (b) strength of materials (stress-strain relationships); (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics; (d) thermodynamics; (e) electrical fields and circuits; (f) nature and properties of materials (relating particle and aggregate structure to properties); and (g) any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics.
OR
B. Combination of education and experience -- college-level education, training, and/or technical experience that furnished (1) a thorough knowledge of the physical and mathematical sciences underlying engineering, and (2) a good understanding, both theoretical and practical, of the engineering sciences and techniques and their applications to one of the branches of engineering.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
GS-11:
At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 level in the Federal service, which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skill, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Experience: Examples of this experience includes: Modeling and simulation professional theories, concepts, principles, techniques, and practices of computer engineering, electronics engineering and/or computer science.
GS-12: At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-11 level in the Federal service, which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skill, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Experience: Examples of this experience includes: Leading and/or performing engineering work involving electronic circuits, circuit elements and equipment systems; applying a number of diverse electronics engineering practices, techniques and processes to identify and resolve complex engineering issues; supporting the planning, testing and troubleshooting of electronics engineering systems or devices; and, developing computer aided engineering analysis and tools in support of planning and designing applications.
GS-13: At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-12 level in the Federal service, which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skill, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Experience: Examples of this experience includes supporting the planning, execution, and instrumentation of electronics engineering tests; providing engineering support for tests, assessments, experiments and system evaluations; coordinating and directing the activities of engineers in the operation and maintenance of advanced hardware and facilities assessing the vulnerability of systems and subsystems; and developing analytical methods, tools, standards, and models and simulations used in electronics engineering and test planning.
GS-14: At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-13 level in the Federal service, which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skill, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Examples of this experience includes supporting the planning, execution, and instrumentation of electronics engineering tests; providing engineering support for tests, assessments, experiments and system evaluations; coordinating and directing the activities of engineers in the operation and maintenance of advanced hardware and facilities assessing the vulnerability of systems and subsystems; and developing analytical methods, tools, standards, and models and simulations used in electronics engineering and test planning.
GS-15: At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-14 level in the Federal service, which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skill, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Examples of this experience includes supporting the planning, execution, and instrumentation of electronics engineering tests; providing engineering support for tests, assessments, experiments and system evaluations; coordinating and directing the activities of engineers in the operation and maintenance of advanced hardware and facilities assessing the vulnerability of systems and subsystems; and developing analytical methods, tools, standards, and models and simulations used in electronics engineering and test planning.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs):
  1. Knowledge of electronics engineering concepts, principles, methods, techniques, and standard engineering practices to perform moderately difficult or relatively limited phases of a larger and more complex installation, operations, and maintenance engineering project.
  2. Knowledge of computer aided design and drafting (CADD) programs to perform design and drafting assignments, as well as other computer applications used in support of plans, analysis, and project reports.
  3. Skill in applying the principles, concepts, and practices of the occupation sufficient to perform limited assignments in the field of electronics engineering.
  4. Ability to communicate factual and procedural information clearly, orally and in writing.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience; transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.Employment Type: OTHER

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