Tech Jobs in Columbia, SC

140,169 open positions · Updated daily

Columbia, SC has become a tech hotspot thanks to its mix of university talent, a thriving startup scene, and a government that actively supports innovation. The city hosts more than 100 tech companies, from global giants like IBM and Cognizant to local firms such as Carver Technologies and R&D labs at Clemson Research Park. The result is a dynamic job market where fresh hires can grow quickly and benefit from a collaborative ecosystem.

Tech roles in Columbia span software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, DevOps, and product management. Companies in the area focus on high‑impact sectors such as health‑tech, AI research, and financial services. Notable employers include IBM, Deloitte, Accenture, Blue Cross Blue Shield of SC, the University of South Carolina Health System, and Clemson University’s Innovation Center.

Columbia’s cost of living is roughly 10% below the U.S. average, making it attractive for tech professionals and their families. With affordable housing, low utility costs, and a vibrant food scene, the city offers a high quality of life. Transparent salary data is especially valuable here, allowing job seekers to confirm that offers align with local expenses and future savings goals.

MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Company: Department of the Navy - Naval Sea Systems Command

Location: Washington Navy Yard, District of Columbia Washington Navy Yard, District of Columbia

Posted Dec 07, 2024

This is a public notice flyer for anticipated vacancies in the Department of the Navy. Interested applicants must follow specific application instructions, as applications won't be accepted through the flyer. The position requires US citizenship, federal employment suitability, direct deposit participation, and successful E-Verify check. New hires must obtain security clearances. The role involves potential travel to CONUS and OCONUS, and requires an interim/final security clearance. Specialized experience in mechanical analysis and design for Naval ships or submarines is necessary. The position is part of the DoD Civilian Acquisition Workforce Personnel Demonstration Project, with a salary cap at GS-15, step 5, currently $185,824.

Supervisory Transportation Operations Specialist (Open to both U.S. Citizens and Federal Employees)

Company: Department of Transportation - Maritime Administration

Location: Washington, District of Columbia Washington, District of Columbia

Posted Dec 07, 2024

This job posting is for a position in the Division of Sealift Operations and Emergency Response, Office of Ship Operations, Office of the Deputy Associate Administrator for Federal Sealift, Office of the Associate Administrator for Strategic Sealift, Maritime Administration (MARAD). The role involves providing analytical and technical support for maintaining policies and procedures for the National Defense Reserve Fleet (NDRF) and the Ready Reserve Force (RRF). Requirements include U.S. citizenship, specialized experience, and meeting conditions of employment such as Selective Service registration, government travel card, supervisory probationary period, background investigation, security clearance, and drug testing. Qualifications include experience in coordinating ship activations, preparing written materials, and managing staff. The position may be eligible for telework.

Director of Visitor Experience Operations

Company: Other Agencies and Independent Organizations - National Gallery of Art

Location: Washington, District of Columbia Washington, District of Columbia

Posted Dec 07, 2024

The role involves serving as a key leader in an institution that welcomes up to four million visitors annually, managing a complex calendar of events and special visits. The position requires U.S. citizenship, participation in the e-Verify program, and potential weekend and overtime work. Candidates must have specialized experience in designing and carrying out customer satisfaction activities or supervising a department in an organization with high attendance. Key skills include supervision, collaboration, and budgeting. The National Gallery of Art fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace and offers a comprehensive benefits package.

FACILITIES OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Company: Department of Defense - Defense Intelligence Agency

Location: Washington, District of Columbia Washington, District of Columbia

Posted Dec 07, 2024

The text describes the core values of an agency, which include teamwork, integrity, excellence, and service. The agency is committed to partnering across all levels and organizational boundaries for mission accomplishment, adhering to the highest legal and ethical principles, providing unrivaled defense intelligence expertise, and prioritizing the welfare of the nation and commitment to the mission. The agency requires U.S. citizenship, a thorough background inquiry, and completion of various tests and investigations for employment. Qualifications include experience in managing maintenance programs, conducting surveillance activities, and performing maintenance or construction work. The agency offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees.

GENERAL ENGINEER

Company: Department of Defense - Defense Intelligence Agency

Location: Washington, District of Columbia Washington, District of Columbia

Posted Dec 07, 2024

The text outlines the core values of an agency, which include teamwork, integrity, excellence, and service. It details the requirements for employment, including U.S. citizenship, drug test, and security investigation. The qualifications section lists assessment factors and highly desired skills for a position, such as analyzing customer requirements, conveying information clearly, and directing facility programs. The basic requirements for the role involve a professional engineering degree or a combination of education and experience. The text also mentions various provisions for additional experience and training for graduates of professional engineering curricula. It concludes with information about conditions of employment, benefits, and eligibility for federal positions.

MANAGEMENT AND PROGRAM ANALYST

Company: Department of the Navy - Secretary of the Navy Offices (SECNAV)

Location: Washington Navy Yard, District of Columbia Washington Navy Yard, District of Columbia

Posted Dec 07, 2024

This is a public notice flyer for anticipated vacancies. Interested applicants must follow specific application instructions, as responses to the flyer won't be accepted. The notice details requirements such as US citizenship, federal employment suitability, direct deposit, E-Verify, and security clearances. Specialized experience in procurement, human capital actions, training analysis, document development, and Microsoft applications is required. The position may involve travel and telework. Federal benefits are offered, and the role is eligible for part-time, substantial, or ad-hoc telework.

Supervisory IT Specialist (INFOSEC)

Company: Department of Homeland Security - U.S. Coast Guard

Location: Washington, District of Columbia Washington, District of Columbia

Posted Dec 07, 2024

The text describes a job opening in the Department of Homeland Security, specifically in the U.S. Coast Guard. The position is for a cybersecurity professional, requiring a Top Secret/SCI clearance. Key requirements include U.S. citizenship, registration or exemption from Selective Service, and successful completion of a background investigation. Qualifications necessitate specialized experience at the GS-14 or GS-15 level, involving network penetration activities, data analysis, and cybersecurity assessment management. The role also requires expert knowledge of cybersecurity statutes and regulations. IT-related competencies such as attention to detail, customer service, oral communication, and problem-solving are also essential.

Bartender

Company: Department of the Navy - Commander, Navy Installations

Location: Washington, District of Columbia Washington, District of Columbia

Posted Dec 07, 2024

The text describes job requirements and qualifications for a bartender position within a U.S. government agency. The role involves preparing and serving various alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, setting up a bar, managing inventory, and handling cash transactions. The job requires physical capabilities such as standing for prolonged periods, lifting heavy objects, and passing an E-Verify check. Additional conditions include participation in a Direct Deposit program and possible Selective Service registration for male applicants born after 1959. The position offers a comprehensive benefits package as part of a U.S. government career.

Attorney Advisor

Company: Department of Housing and Urban Development - Office of General Counsel

Location: Washington, District of Columbia Washington, District of Columbia

Posted Dec 07, 2024

This job posting is for a position in the Department of Housing and Urban Development's Office of General Counsel, located in Washington, D.C. The role requires U.S. citizenship, completion of a background investigation, and a valid law license. Applicants must have a law degree and specific legal experience, depending on the GS level. Specialized experience includes community planning, affordable housing programs, and interpreting Federal housing statutes. The position is exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act and offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Sanctions Regulations Advisor

Company: Department of the Treasury - Treasury, Departmental Offices

Location: Washington, District of Columbia Washington, District of Columbia

Posted Dec 07, 2024

This job posting is for a Sanctions Regulations Advisor position at the Departmental Offices, Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC)- Regulatory Affairs Division. The role involves shaping and implementing high-priority national security and foreign policy sanctions initiatives. Key requirements include U.S. citizenship, successful completion of a background investigation, and compliance with federal ethics laws. Specialized experience is required, ranging from GS-12 to GS-14, involving drafting, reviewing, and analyzing U.S. economic sanctions programs, and effective communication of substantive and technical issues. The position offers competitive salaries, bonuses, incentive awards, and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement programs, and flexible work schedules.

Museum Specialist

Company: Other Agencies and Independent Organizations - Smithsonian Institution

Location: Washington, District of Columbia Washington, District of Columbia

Posted Dec 07, 2024

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a candidate for a position in the Collections Management Unit, Collections Department, Division of Public History, National Museum of American History. The role involves collections management work, managing and preserving collections, using collection information systems, and conducting research for museum projects. Qualifications include one year of specialized experience or a Master's degree. The position requires passing a pre-employment background check and may involve lifting up to 40 lbs. The Smithsonian offers a comprehensive benefits package.

TRAINING INSTRUCTOR

Company: Department of Defense - Defense Intelligence Agency

Location: Washington, District of Columbia Washington, District of Columbia

Posted Dec 07, 2024

The text outlines the core values of an agency, which include teamwork, integrity, excellence, and service. The agency is committed to partnering across all levels and organizational boundaries for mission accomplishment, adhering to the highest legal and ethical principles, providing unrivaled defense intelligence expertise, and prioritizing the welfare of the nation and commitment to the mission. The agency is seeking applicants who can make insightful decisions, adapt to changing requirements, maintain professional relationships, and deliver high-quality training. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and undergo a thorough background investigation. The role requires either undergraduate and graduate education in a relevant field or equivalent experience in instruction and training.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of tech jobs are available in Columbia, SC?
Full‑stack developer, mobile app engineer, data analyst, cybersecurity specialist, cloud architect, AI/ML researcher, product manager, UX designer, DevOps engineer, and IT support specialist. Local companies such as IBM, Deloitte, and Clemson University employ talent across these roles.
How common are remote versus on‑site tech positions in Columbia?
About 70% of listings allow hybrid or remote work. On‑site roles cluster at Clemson Research Park, the SC Department of Transportation, and corporate campuses of IBM and Deloitte. Firms like Accenture and Blue Cross Blue Shield of SC also support flexible arrangements for most tech roles.
Which major employers dominate Columbia’s tech scene?
IBM, Cognizant, Deloitte, Accenture, Blue Cross Blue Shield of SC, University of South Carolina Health System, Clemson University, Carver Technologies, and the South Carolina Department of Transportation are key employers.
What are salary expectations for tech talent in Columbia?
Junior engineers earn $70,000–$85,000, mid‑level $85,000–$115,000, and senior roles $115,000–$140,000+. The median tech salary in Columbia is about $95,000, 8% higher than the national tech median but still below the cost‑of‑living adjusted national average.
How can a tech professional relocate to Columbia, SC?
Research neighborhoods—Downtown, West Columbia, and Lake Murray offer great affordability and amenities. Use local rental sites like Zillow and Craigslist, and consider co‑working spaces such as The Foundry. Attend Columbia Tech Hub meetups, join the South Carolina tech LinkedIn group, and explore city relocation grants and tax incentives through the South Carolina Economic Development Office.

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