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Civil Engineer Phd Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Whisper Aero

Structures Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

Bachelor's degree in mechanical, Aerospace, Civil Engineering, or related discipline.  * Minimum of 5 years of related experience (3 years with a Master's, 1 year with a PhD).  * Proficiency in ...

Whisper Aero

Structures Engineer

Crossville, TN · On-site

Bachelor's degree in mechanical, Aerospace, Civil Engineering, or related discipline.  * Minimum of 5 years of related experience (3 years with a Master's, 1 year with a PhD).  * Proficiency in ...

GeoWorld

Civil - Structural

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

S. or PhD in Structural Engineering from an accredited college. * 5-10 years of Structural Engineering experience. * Possess or have ability to obtain professional registrations. * Coursework must ...

Actalent

Formulation Chemist

Memphis, TN

$100K - $150K/yr

Formulation stability Education * BS, MS, or PhD in Chemistry, Agricultural Chemistry, Formulation ... About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent ...

All JobsCivil Engineer Phd JobsCivil Engineer Phd Jobs in Tennessee

Civil Engineer Phd information

See Tennessee salary details

$34.5K

$75K

$111.6K

How much do civil engineer phd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineer phd in Tennessee is $75,036.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,300.00 and $89,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a civil engineer PhD?

Civil Engineer PhDs are professionals who have earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in civil engineering, which involves advanced study and research in topics such as structural engineering, transportation, geotechnical engineering, and environmental systems. They typically work in academia, research institutions, or high-level industry positions, focusing on solving complex engineering problems and advancing knowledge in the field. Civil Engineer PhDs may also teach at universities, publish research papers, and lead large-scale engineering projects. Their expertise is critical in developing innovative solutions to infrastructure and environmental challenges.

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

To thrive as a Civil Engineer PhD, you need advanced knowledge in civil engineering principles, strong research capabilities, and a doctoral degree in civil engineering or a closely related field. Expertise in simulation software (such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or ANSYS), research methodologies, and often professional licensure (PE) or certifications are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving skills, leadership, and the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for leading innovative research, advancing engineering solutions, and effectively collaborating with academic and industry stakeholders.

What are some common research and collaboration challenges faced by civil engineer PhDs in academic and industry settings?

Civil Engineers with a PhD frequently collaborate across interdisciplinary teams, which can present challenges in aligning technical language, project goals, and expectations. In academia, balancing independent research with teaching and grant writing is a common challenge, while in industry, integrating cutting-edge research into practical projects often requires effective communication with stakeholders from non-technical backgrounds. Building strong professional networks and developing project management skills are essential for overcoming these challenges and advancing in both environments.

What is the difference between Civil Engineer Phd vs Civil Engineer?

AspectCivil Engineer PhdCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Civil Engineering, possibly with research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Civil Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, advanced consultingConstruction sites, design firms, project management
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, specialized consultingConstruction companies, engineering firms, government agencies

The main difference is that a Civil Engineer Phd focuses on research, academia, and advanced analysis, while a Civil Engineer typically works on design, construction, and project implementation. The Phd often involves specialized research, whereas the Civil Engineer role emphasizes practical application and project management.

Is it worth getting a PhD in civil engineering?

A PhD in civil engineering prepares individuals for advanced research, academia, and specialized roles in areas like infrastructure design and environmental systems. It can lead to higher-level positions and increased earning potential but requires significant time and commitment, often involving research, publications, and teaching experience.

What can I do with a PhD in civil engineering?

A PhD in civil engineering prepares individuals for advanced research, teaching at the university level, and leadership roles in infrastructure design, construction, and project management. Graduates often work in academia, government agencies, or private consulting firms, utilizing skills in data analysis, modeling, and technical problem-solving.

What are popular job titles related to Civil Engineer Phd jobs in Tennessee?

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What job categories do people searching Civil Engineer Phd jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Civil Engineer Phd jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Civil Engineer Phd jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Civil Engineer Phd job openings:

Civil Engineer Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civil Engineer Phd job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,036 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

Research Associate: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering - UTK

The University of Tennessee

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering seeks applications from extraordinarily qualified individuals for a full-time Research Associate position. Research areas include manufacturing and development of functional composite materials, x-ray tomography, and mechanical testing suitable for extreme environment applications. A Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) and a strong record of accomplishment are required.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees-the Volunteers-who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service. 

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory. 

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.  

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone. 

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.  

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community! 

Required Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in CEE or related field.

  • Ability to manage and mentor undergraduates and graduate personnel for sponsored projects.

  • Strong written and oral communication, management, and team leadership.

  • Extensive Graduate Assistant experience during PhD with the preparation in multiphase materials, mechanical testing, and x-ray imaging.

  • Effective interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work in a team environment with a diverse group of scientific and technical personnel.

  • Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Work Location

  • Location: Knoxville, TN

  • Onsite

Compensation and Benefits

  • UT market range: MR09

  • Anticipated hiring range: $75,024

  • Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here

  • Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments:

  • Resume

  • Cover Letter

About The Department

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) has 27 tenure-line faculty members and five non-tenured full-time teaching faculty and offer baccalaureate, masters, and PhD degrees in all areas of Civil and Environmental Engineering. CEE faculty collaborate through a number of interdisciplinary centers including the Center for Transportation Research, the Institute for a Secure and Sustainable environment, and the Institute for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing. The department is also leading the Future of Construction Initiative, featuring a full0scale robotic arm 3-D concrete printing facility. As the leading university partner in UT-Battelle, the management company for Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), UTK offers extraordinary opportunities for cutting-edge research in science and engineering with the UT-Oak Ridge Innovation Institute (UT-ORII). The department rands in the top 5% of all US Civil and Environmental Engineering programs in per-faculty scholarly publications and citations according to Academic Analytics. 

  • Fundamental experimental research. 

  • Performs experiments and other exercises using independent judgment. 

  • Write papers, reports and present the research findings. 

  • Provide updates to PI/direct manager on meeting project milestones and/or provide proactive suggestions if milestones may not be met on time

  • Writes and publishes manuscripts/results of research via journal publications

  • Mentors students and oversees lab safety  training and environment

  • Conducts training/lectures on research and may also be expected to provide results and benchmarking to sponsored projects constituents if required by the research

  • Leads/designs assessments that students or assistant my assist with and support

  • Provides tours of the labs when needed and ensures clean working environment in the labs

  • Participate in writing proposals with the new ideas gained from the research finding.

Apply