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Trainee Engineer Jobs in Clemson, SC (NOW HIRING)

Trainee Engineer information

See Clemson, SC salary details

$25.8K

$58.1K

$97.9K

How much do trainee engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee engineer in Clemson, SC is $58,139.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,100.00 and $63,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee engineer?

Trainee engineers are entry-level professionals who have recently completed their engineering education and are undergoing practical training within an organization. Their role is to gain hands-on experience, develop technical skills, and learn about the company's processes under the guidance of senior engineers. Trainee engineers may rotate through different departments to understand various aspects of engineering work and to identify their areas of interest. The goal is to prepare them for full-time engineering positions by building a strong foundation in both technical and soft skills.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, analytical skills, and a relevant degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, industry-specific tools, and an openness to learning new technologies is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure you can effectively contribute to projects, adapt to evolving technical requirements, and integrate smoothly into engineering teams.

What do trainee engineers do?

As a Trainee Engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of entry-level engineering projects under the guidance of experienced team members. Typical responsibilities include assisting with technical documentation, conducting research, performing basic calculations or tests, and supporting ongoing design or implementation tasks. You'll often collaborate closely with engineers from different disciplines, attend regular team meetings, and participate in training sessions to build your technical and soft skills. This hands-on experience is designed to help you understand company processes and prepare you for more complex assignments as you progress.

What is the difference between Trainee Engineer vs Junior Engineer?

AspectTrainee EngineerJunior Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant degree or diplomaCompleted degree or diploma, with some work experience
Work EnvironmentTraining period, supervised tasks, learning-focusedIndependent task execution, project involvement
ResponsibilitiesAssisting senior staff, learning proceduresPerforming assigned technical tasks, supporting projects
Career StageEntry-level, training phaseEarly career, gaining experience

In summary, a Trainee Engineer is in the learning and training phase, focusing on skill development under supervision, while a Junior Engineer has completed their education and is actively working on technical tasks with more independence, marking the beginning of their professional career.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Clemson, SC? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Clemson, SC are:
What cities near Clemson, SC are hiring for Trainee Engineer jobs? Cities near Clemson, SC with the most Trainee Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Trainee Engineer job openings in Clemson, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,139 per year, or $28 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineering Trainee - January 2027

Dodge Industrial, Inc.

Belton, SC

$64K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Manufacturing Engineering Trainee

Location: Simpsonville, SC; Greenville, SC; Belton, SC; Rogersville, TN; Asheville, NC; Marion, NC; Kansas City, MO

Reports to: Engineering Manager

Employment Type: Full Time

Industry: Manufacturing | Mechanical Power Transmission Components | Engineering Services

Job Function: Engineering | Process Improvement

Job Summary:

The Manufacturing Engineering Trainee (MET) is an entry-level manufacturing engineering position tailored for high-potential future leaders of Dodge® Industrial. This program will follow a formal and structured rotational training and development program for 1-2 years. This role will include:

  • Assigned daily mentorship from a technical and non-technical senior leader.
  • Pre-assigned critical hands-on manufacturing projects that aim to eliminate cost and time and improve safety, quality, and on-time delivery.
  • Tremendous exposure to all levels of Dodge leadership.
  • Rotational opportunity for all Dodge manufacturing facilities and the North American Headquarters.
  • In-depth training from all facets of the business (i.e., human resources, supply chain, finance, quality, etc.).

Required Qualifications:

  • Engineering degree (mechanical, industrial, or related field).
  • Experience/working knowledge of manufacturing processes through internship, co-op, or full-time employment.
  • Must be currently authorized to work for Dodge Industrial in the United States (US).
  • Strong analytical skills with an emphasis on critical thinking, root cause analysis, and problem-solving.
  • Attention to detail with a strong sense of ownership and responsibility.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Collaborates well with others and is a good team player.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Ability to read and decipher manufacturing drawings and procedures.
  • Has worked in a metal-cutting work environment.
  • Working knowledge of CNC equipment and programming.
  • Gearing or bearing experience is a plus.
  • Intermediate materials knowledge.
  • Comfortable with and has the desire to work on a manufacturing shop floor.

Why Join Us?

  • Work alongside a collaborative, experienced leadership team.
  • Be part of an industry leader with a strong brand reputation and an innovation-driven culture.

RBC Bearings is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.