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Algorithm Engineer Jobs in Knoxville, TN (NOW HIRING)

FPGA Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$124K - $159K/yr

S. Government Security Clearance FPGA Engineer The EndoSec FPGA Engineer is responsible for the ... cryptography algorithms using state-of-the-art FPGA hardware. Modeling and Simulation: Use ...

Real-Time Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Control algorithms * Finite state machines for supervisory logic * Machine‑learning inference ... S. in Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field ...

FPGA Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$116K - $149K/yr

S. Government Security Clearance FPGA Engineer The EndoSec FPGA Engineer is responsible for the ... cryptography algorithms using state-of-the-art FPGA hardware. Modeling and Simulation: Use ...

Control algorithms * Finite state machines for supervisory logic * Digital filtering * Computer ... S. in Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field ...

Process Engineer 3

Maryville, TN · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Develop algorithms for object detection, classification, and defect recognition. * Test and ... Proficient in programming languages such as Python, C++, or similar. * Knowledge of deep learning ...

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Algorithm Engineer information

See Knoxville, TN salary details

$56.8K

$106.5K

$193.7K

How much do algorithm engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for algorithm engineer in Knoxville, TN is $106,539.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,800.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an algorithm engineer do?

An Algorithm Engineer designs, develops, and optimizes algorithms to solve complex computational problems. They analyze data, improve system performance, and implement mathematical models for various applications, such as machine learning, computer vision, and optimization. This role requires proficiency in programming languages like Python or C++, strong mathematical skills, and an understanding of data structures and algorithms. Algorithm Engineers work closely with software developers, data scientists, and researchers to integrate efficient solutions into real-world systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an algorithm engineer?

To thrive as an Algorithm Engineer, you need a strong background in mathematics, computer science, and programming, usually demonstrated with a degree in these fields and experience in algorithm design and analysis. Familiarity with languages like Python, C++, or Java, and tools such as MATLAB or TensorFlow, as well as relevant certifications like those in data science or machine learning, are typically advantageous. Outstanding problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and effective communication are critical soft skills for success in this role. These competencies are crucial because they enable Algorithm Engineers to design efficient, innovative solutions and collaborate seamlessly with multidisciplinary teams.

What are the typical challenges an algorithm engineer faces in their day-to-day work?

Algorithm Engineers often encounter complex problems that require creative, efficient solutions within strict performance or resource constraints. They may need to optimize existing algorithms, develop new ones from scratch, and ensure seamless integration into larger software systems, often while balancing accuracy, speed, and scalability. Collaborating with other engineers, data scientists, and product teams to align technical efforts with business goals is also a regular part of the job. Staying updated with the latest advancements in algorithms and technology is essential, making continuous learning a key aspect of the role.

How much does an algorithm engineer make?

The average salary for an algorithm engineer varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in machine learning or data analysis can earn higher salaries, especially in tech hubs. Compensation often includes benefits such as bonuses and stock options.

What are the most commonly searched types of Algorithm Engineer jobs in Knoxville, TN?

The most popular types of Algorithm Engineer jobs in Knoxville, TN are:

What are popular job titles related to Algorithm Engineer jobs in Knoxville, TN?

For Algorithm Engineer jobs in Knoxville, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Algorithm Engineer jobs in Knoxville, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Algorithm Engineer jobs in Knoxville, TN are:

Infographic showing various Algorithm Engineer job openings in Knoxville, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,539 per year, or $51.2 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Algorithm Development for Scientific Computing

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Scientific Research and Development Services • 5 - 10K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


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 121 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16985 


Overview:

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join a large research team working on the development and implementation of novel algorithms for scientific computing, with a particular emphasis on methods tailored to study nonequilibrium quantum many-body systems. The position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of applied mathematics, computational science, and high-performance computing. The successful candidate will help develop advanced scientific computing methods and deploy them on state-of-the-art high-performance computing facilities. There is significant potential for high-impact research contributions at the forefront of computational quantum many-body physics.

This position resides within the Computational Chemistry and Nanomaterials Sciences group in the Computational Sciences and Engineering Division (CSED) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). CSED focuses on transdisciplinary computational science and analytics at scale to enable scientific discovery across the physical sciences, engineered systems, and biomedicine and health. It provides foundations and advances in quantum information sciences to enable quantum computers, devices, and networked systems. It develops community applications, data assets, and technologies and provides assurance to build knowledge and impact in novel, crosscut-science outcomes.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Develop, implement, benchmark, and advance novel computational methods for equilibrium and nonequilibrium quantum many-body systems.
  • Contribute to the development of scalable and efficient implementations of these algorithms for state-of-the-art high performance computing facilities.
  • Collaborate within a multi-disciplinary research environment consisting of computational scientists, applied mathematicians, and computer scientists to link models and algorithms with high-performance computing.
  • Author peer reviewed papers for internal and external release as well as represent the organization via technical presentations in workshops and conferences.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in computational physics or a field relevant to the job duties such as physics, mathematics, computer science, or engineering within the past 5 years.
  • Previous theoretical and/or computational research experience in tensor networks, Monte Carlo, machine learning or a related field
  • Proficiency in quantum mechanics, statistical modeling, and linear algebra

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with density matrix renormalization group and tensor network algorithm development and application.
  • Competency with common scientific programming languages such as C++, Python, and/or Julia and version control systems.
  • Experience in parallel programming with one or more common parallel programming models, like MPI or OpenMP.
  • Experience in heterogeneous programming (i.e., GPU programming) and/or developing, debugging, and profiling massively parallel codes.
  • Experience with using high performance computing for lattice model simulations.
  • Experience working in a multi-disciplinary research environment.
  • Demonstrated written and oral communication skills, a proven publication record, and effective interpersonal skills.

Special Requirements:

  • Postdocs: Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.
  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.

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.

For foreign national candidates:

If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment. 

Letters of Recommendation:

Please submit three letters of reference when applying to this position. You may upload these directly to your application or have them sent to

Instructions to upload documents to your candidate profile:

  • Login to your account via jobs.ornl.gov
  • View Profile
  • Under the My Documents section, select Add a Document

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.


If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.


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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