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Aviation Engineering Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Aviation Project Manager

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Overview Join our growing aviation team as an Aviation Project Manager in Nashville, TN and play a ... You'll work at the intersection of engineering excellence and program delivery, ensuring projects ...

Overview Join our growing aviation team as an Aviation Project Manager in Nashville, TN and play a ... You'll work at the intersection of engineering excellence and program delivery, ensuring projects ...

Aviation Project Manager

Nashville, TN · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Overview Join our growing aviation team as an Aviation Project Manager in Nashville, TN and play a ... You'll work at the intersection of engineering excellence and program delivery, ensuring projects ...

Aviation Project Manager

Nashville, TN · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Overview Join our growing aviation team as an Aviation Project Manager in Nashville, TN and play a ... You'll work at the intersection of engineering excellence and program delivery, ensuring projects ...

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Aviation Engineering information

See Tennessee salary details

$60.8K

$80.5K

$88.5K

How much do aviation engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for aviation engineering in Tennessee is $80,525.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,100.00 and $84,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is aviation engineering?

Aviation engineering is a specialized branch of engineering focused on the design, development, testing, and maintenance of aircraft and their systems. Professionals in this field work on everything from airplanes and helicopters to drones and spacecraft. They ensure that these vehicles are safe, efficient, and meet regulatory standards. Aviation engineers may specialize in areas such as aerodynamics, avionics, propulsion, or structural design. The field requires a strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles.

Are aviation engineers in demand?

Aviation engineering is a specialized field with steady demand due to ongoing advancements in aircraft technology and maintenance needs. Employment opportunities are often available in aerospace companies, government agencies, and maintenance organizations, especially for those with strong technical skills and relevant certifications.

How do aviation engineers typically collaborate with other departments during the aircraft design process?

Aviation engineers work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including manufacturing, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance departments, throughout the aircraft design process. Collaboration often involves regular meetings, design reviews, and joint problem-solving sessions to ensure that all technical and safety requirements are met. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as engineers must integrate feedback from various specialists to develop safe, efficient, and innovative aircraft designs. This collaborative environment not only enhances project outcomes but also provides valuable learning opportunities for career growth.

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

To thrive as an Aviation Engineer, you need a solid background in aeronautical engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree and often a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB, and compliance with aviation regulations such as FAA or EASA standards is essential. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help aviation engineers collaborate effectively and address complex technical challenges. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety, reliability, and innovation of aircraft systems in a highly regulated industry.

What does an aviation engineer do?

An aviation engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains aircraft and aerospace systems. They work with aerodynamics, propulsion, materials, and avionics, often using CAD software and adhering to safety standards. Their role ensures aircraft operate efficiently, safely, and meet regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Aviation Engineering vs Aircraft Maintenance Engineering?

AspectAviation EngineeringAircraft Maintenance Engineering
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in aeronautical or aerospace engineeringDiploma or certification in aircraft maintenance engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, research facilities, manufacturing plantsAircraft hangars, maintenance workshops, airports
Employer & IndustryAircraft manufacturers, aerospace companies, research organizationsAirlines, maintenance service providers, airports

While both roles involve aircraft, Aviation Engineering focuses on designing, developing, and testing aircraft and aerospace systems, whereas Aircraft Maintenance Engineering centers on inspecting, repairing, and maintaining aircraft to ensure safety and compliance. Both careers require technical certifications and are vital to the aviation industry, but they differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Aviation Engineering jobs in Tennessee? For Aviation Engineering jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Aviation Engineering jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Aviation Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Aviation Engineering job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,525 per year, or $38.7 per hour.

Aviation Project Manager

SNC-Lavalin

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job DescriptionOverview

Join our growing aviation team as an Aviation Project Manager in Nashville, TN and play a pivotal role in shaping critical airport infrastructure that impacts communities and connectivity nationwide. In this role, you'll lead the full lifecycle of complex aviation design and construction projects-bringing together technical expertise, strategic leadership, and client partnership to deliver high-impact, mission-critical solutions.

You'll work at the intersection of engineering excellence and program delivery, ensuring projects are executed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with FAA and industry standards. Collaborating with industry-leading experts across disciplines, you'll have the opportunity to influence major capital improvement programs while advancing your own career in a supportive, flexible hybrid work environment. This is a high-visibility role ideal for professionals who thrive in dynamic, multidisciplinary settings and are motivated to drive innovation, deliver quality, and make a lasting impact on aviation infrastructure.

Your role
  • Own project delivery from end to end - Oversee scope, budget, schedule, quality, and risk across aviation projects.
  • Serve as a trusted client advisor - Build strong relationships with airport clients and represent AtkinsRealis' full suite of capabilities with minimal oversight.
  • Lead capital improvement program (CIP) efforts - Support clients through planning, grant applications, design, procurement, construction administration, and closeout.
  • Drive technical excellence - Provide oversight on airfield and landside design; review engineering concepts, plans, and specifications to ensure quality and compliance.
  • Coordinate across disciplines - Partner with engineers, subconsultants, and technical teams to deliver integrated solutions.
  • Guide project planning and execution - Develop and manage cost estimates, staffing plans, schedules, and budgets.
  • Solve complex engineering challenges - Evaluate alternatives, mitigate risks, and implement practical, cost-effective solutions.
  • Mentor and develop talent - Support and coach junior engineers and technical staff, fostering a high-performing team environment.
  • Engage with key agencies - Collaborate with the FAA and TDOT Aeronautics Division on grants, inspections, and construction administration.
  • Support construction oversight - Ensure quality assurance and field coordination through project delivery.
  • Travel as needed - Occasional travel to project sites (domestic and potentially international).
About you
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field
  • 8+ years of experience in aviation engineering and/or project management, with increasing responsibility
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license (required)
  • Proven experience managing airport or aviation infrastructure projects
  • Strong understanding of FAA standards, funding processes, and airport development programs
  • Excellent communication and client management skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
  • Demonstrated success managing budgets, schedules, and multidisciplinary teams
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office; familiarity with AutoCAD Civil 3D is a plus
  • Strong technical writing and documentation
Rewards & benefits

At AtkinsRealis, our values-Safety, Integrity, Collaboration, Innovation, and Excellence-are more than just words. They are the foundation of who we are and how we work. These principles shape our culture, guide our decisions, and inspire us to create an environment where every team member feels empowered to grow, succeed, and make a meaningful impact.

Depending on your employment status, AtkinsRealis benefits may include medical, dental, vision, company-paid life and short- and long-term disability benefits, employer-matched 401(k) with 100% vesting, employee stock purchase plan, Paid Time Off, leaves of absences options, flexible work options, recognition and employee satisfaction programs, employee assistance program, and voluntary benefits. You can review our comprehensive benefits page here.

About AtkinsRealis

We're AtkinsRealis, a world-class engineering services and nuclear organization. We connect people, data and technology to transform the world's infrastructure and energy systems. Together, with our industry partners and clients, and our global team of consultants, designers, engineers and project managers, we can change the world. We're committed to leading our clients across our various end markets to engineer a better future for our planet and its people.

Find out more.

Additional information

Expected compensation range is between $100,000- $150,000 annually depending on skills, experience, and geographical location.

Are you ready to expand your career with us? Apply today and help us shape something extraordinary.

AtkinsRealis is an equal opportunity, Drug-Free employer EOE/Veteran/Disability.

Please review AtkinsRealis' Equal Opportunity Statement here.

AtkinsRealis cares about your privacy and is committed to protecting your privacy. Please consult our Privacy Notice on our Careers site to know more about how we collect, use and transfer your Personal Data. By submitting your personal information to AtkinsRealis, you confirm that you have read and accept our Privacy Notice.

Note to staffing and direct hire agencies:

In the event a recruiter or agency who is not on our preferred supplier list submits a resume/candidate to anyone in the company, AtkinsRealis family of companies, we explicitly reserve the right to recruit and hire the candidate(s) at our discretion and without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. https://careers.atkinsrealis.com/recruitment-agencies

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At AtkinsRealis, we seek to hire individuals with diverse characteristics, backgrounds and perspectives. We strongly believe that world-class talent makes no distinctions based on gender, ethnic or national origin, sexual identity and orientation, age, religion or disability, but enriches itself through these differences.