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Advanced Manufacturing Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

TN · On-site

We are seeking a Sensor Application Engineer who will focus on design and installation and assist with the development (hardware and software), of sensor systems for advanced manufacturing systems.

Manufacturing Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$99K - $157K/yr

Preferred Qualifications: • Experience with advanced manufacturing or automation technologies. • Experience developing custom tooling. What We Offer: * Competitive salary and benefits package ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$99K - $157K/yr

Preferred Qualifications: • Experience with advanced manufacturing or automation technologies. • Experience developing custom tooling. What We Offer: * Competitive salary and benefits package ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$99K - $157K/yr

Preferred Qualifications: • Experience with advanced manufacturing or automation technologies. • Experience developing custom tooling. What We Offer: * Competitive salary and benefits package ...

Preferred Qualifications: • Experience with advanced manufacturing or automation technologies. • Experience developing custom tooling. What We Offer: * Competitive salary and benefits package ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$99K - $157K/yr

Preferred Qualifications: • Experience with advanced manufacturing or automation technologies. • Experience developing custom tooling. What We Offer: * Competitive salary and benefits package ...

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Advanced Manufacturing information

See Tennessee salary details

$38.1K

$87.1K

$135.2K

How much do advanced manufacturing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for advanced manufacturing in Tennessee is $87,131.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,900.00 and $106,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Advanced Manufacturing vs Manufacturing Technician?

AspectAdvanced ManufacturingManufacturing Technician
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications, associate degrees, or specialized trainingUsually requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with some technical training
Work EnvironmentHigh-tech facilities, automation, robotics, and computer-controlled equipmentFactory floors, assembly lines, and production environments
Industry UsageUsed across industries like aerospace, automotive, electronics, and pharmaceuticalsCommonly found in manufacturing plants across various sectors
Job FocusDesign, operate, and improve manufacturing processes and systemsOperate machinery, perform maintenance, and ensure production runs smoothly

Advanced Manufacturing involves working with cutting-edge technology and complex systems, often requiring specialized certifications. Manufacturing Technicians focus on operating and maintaining equipment on the factory floor. While both roles are essential in manufacturing, Advanced Manufacturing emphasizes process innovation and automation, whereas Manufacturing Technicians focus on day-to-day production tasks.

What jobs are considered advanced manufacturing?

Advanced manufacturing jobs include roles such as CNC machinists, robotics technicians, automation engineers, additive manufacturing specialists, and process engineers. These positions often require knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD), programming, and familiarity with modern manufacturing technologies and tools.

What are some typical challenges faced in an advanced manufacturing role, and how can professionals effectively address them?

Professionals in Advanced Manufacturing often encounter challenges such as integrating new technologies, maintaining high-quality standards, and managing complex automated systems. Adapting to fast-paced changes in manufacturing processes and troubleshooting technical issues are also common. To address these challenges, it is important to stay updated with the latest industry trends, participate in ongoing training, and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams like engineering and quality assurance. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential for ensuring smooth operations and continuous improvement.

What is advanced manufacturing?

Advanced manufacturing refers to the use of innovative technologies, processes, and materials to improve products and production methods in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and biotechnology. It incorporates automation, robotics, additive manufacturing (3D printing), artificial intelligence, and data analytics to enhance efficiency, quality, and flexibility. The goal is to create high-quality products, reduce costs, and respond rapidly to market changes, making manufacturing more competitive and sustainable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in advanced manufacturing?

To excel in Advanced Manufacturing, you need a strong background in engineering principles, process optimization, and quality control, often complemented by a degree in engineering or manufacturing technology. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), robotics, and certifications like Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing are highly valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork distinguish top professionals in this field. These skills and qualities drive innovation, ensure efficient production, and maintain high standards in a rapidly evolving manufacturing environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Advanced Manufacturing jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Advanced Manufacturing jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Advanced Manufacturing jobs in Tennessee? For Advanced Manufacturing jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Advanced Manufacturing jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Advanced Manufacturing jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Advanced Manufacturing jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Advanced Manufacturing job openings:
Infographic showing various Advanced Manufacturing job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,131 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Applications Engineer - Advanced Manufacturing

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16196 

­­Level: RP02

Overview:  

We are seeking a Sensor Application Engineer who will focus on design and installation and assist with the development (hardware and software), of sensor systems for advanced manufacturing systems. They will maintain sensor calibration and quality across a variety of machines and support the development of state-of-the-art sensor technologies and their usage in advanced machine learning algorithms. This position resides in the Manufacturing Systems Analytics (MSA) Group in the Manufacturing Science Division (MSD), Energy Science and Technology Directorate (ESTD), at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).  

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

  • Design and install image-based and other sensing systems
  • Develop data acquisition software for sensing systems
  • Maintain and upgrade existing imaging and sensing systems
  • Develop new sensing techniques and technologies
  • Calibrate sensors and ensure data integrity for use in machine learning algorithms
  • Support R&D projects for the MSA Group and across the MDF
  • Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

  • BS in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, mechatronics, robotics, computer engineering, computer science, or closely related field with at least four years of relevant experience.
  • Programming experience, preferably in Python.
  • Strong desire to learn new skills and the ability to learn independently.
  • Excellent verbal communication skills.
  • Desire and ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic team environment.
  • At least three of the following:
    • Mechanical design experience using 3D CAD software
    • Experience with sensor instrumentation, particularly cameras and optics
    • Experience with microcontrollers and/or robotics
    • Experience with computer vision techniques
    • Experience with software development for real-time data acquisition
    • Knowledge and/or experience of metal additive manufacturing processes

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, mechatronics, robotics, computer engineering, computer science, or a closely related discipline.
  • Working knowledge of machine learning and deep learning models, including their application within manufacturing environments
  • Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
  • Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Special Requirements:

  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required.  Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation.  This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year.  This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.


ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.


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