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Contract Civil Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

... contract. About L.I. Smith & Associates L.I. Smith & Associates, Inc. (LIS) is a full-service civil engineering and land surveying firm serving public and private clients throughout Tennessee.

Civil Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN ยท On-site +1

The Civil Engineer is responsible for supporting the planning, design, and permitting of land ... Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract ...

ABOUT THE ROLE We are seeking a Civil Engineer to join our team supporting the DOE's Y-12 National ... of contracts in the environmental, nuclear, and defense sectors. Some reasons to join GEM are:

Prepare contract documents for construction (i.e. engineering drawings and specifications ... Support the civil team in providing services during construction that can include submittal reviews ...

Prepare contract documents for construction (i.e. engineering drawings and specifications ... Support the civil team in providing services during construction that can include submittal reviews ...

We bring together mechanical, electrical, structural, and civil engineering experts to solve ... Prepare specifications and contract documents, and costs estimates * Advance permitting ...

We bring together mechanical, electrical, structural, and civil engineering experts to solve ... Prepare specifications and contract documents, and costs estimates * Advance permitting ...

... and contract requirements. Work with other civil engineers and technical disciplines in a team environment. The ideal candidate will have solid experience in executing design development and ...

... and contract requirements. Work with other civil engineers and technical disciplines in a team environment. The ideal candidate will have solid experience in executing design development and ...

In general, a mid-level civil engineer will assist more senior engineers by leading and/or ... and contract document clarifications. * Assist in the development of new standards and ...

In general, a mid-level civil engineer will assist more senior engineers by leading and/or ... and contract document clarifications. * Assist in the development of new standards and ...

Position Summary The Early Career Civil Engineer will be responsible for providing, design ... Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract ...

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Contract Civil Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$34.5K

$75K

$111.6K

How much do contract civil engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract civil engineer 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 does a contract civil engineer do?

A Contract Civil Engineer is a temporary or project-based professional responsible for designing, overseeing, and managing construction or infrastructure projects. They work on a contractual basis for private firms, government agencies, or consultancy firms. Their responsibilities include site supervision, ensuring compliance with regulations, managing budgets, and coordinating with various stakeholders. Contract roles offer flexibility and diverse project experience but may require frequent job transitions.

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

Excelling as a Contract Civil Engineer requires a strong background in civil engineering principles, a relevant degree, and often a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency with design and analysis software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or other project management tools is highly valuable. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities set top performers apart in this client-facing, project-driven role. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring project quality, adherence to regulatory standards, and successful collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

What are some common challenges faced by contract civil engineers?

Contract Civil Engineers often encounter tight project deadlines, balancing multiple assignments, and adapting quickly to the requirements of different clients or contractors. Navigating varying site conditions, unpredictable weather, and evolving regulatory standards can also be challenging. However, these obstacles present valuable opportunities to develop project management skills and learn new methodologies. Most firms support their contract engineers with strong collaborative teams, regular training, and access to the latest industry technologies to help overcome these challenges.

Do contract civil engineers make more money?

Contract civil engineers often earn higher hourly rates compared to salaried employees due to the temporary nature of their work and the need for specialized skills. However, they may have less job stability and benefits, and total annual income can vary based on project availability and experience. Factors such as certifications, project scope, and location also influence earning potential.

What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineer jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Civil Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:

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

For Contract Civil Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Contract Civil Engineer 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, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,036 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

QUALIFICATIONS (Education must be from an accredited institution.)

Education and Experience: 
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from an accredited institution and demonstrated competency in civil engineering design, land development, or infrastructure-related projects.

NECESSARY SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS 
Candidate must possess strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with project teams, clients, and agencies. Extensive experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D is required. Candidate must be within commuting distance of the Paris or Nashville offices.

Overview

SUMMARY

The Civil Engineer is responsible for planning, designing, and supporting land development and infrastructure projects throughout the Southeast region. This role contributes to projects involving site layout, grading, drainage, roadway design, and utility systems while ensuring that engineering solutions meet project goals, regulatory requirements, and client expectations.

The Civil Engineer works collaboratively with project managers, engineers, surveyors, and external partners to deliver accurate designs, coordinate project requirements, and maintain project schedules and quality standards. This position supports projects from initial planning and design through construction documentation and coordination.

Responsibilities

RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Plan and design land development projects including site layout, grading, drainage, roadway, and utility systems
  1. Lead and contribute to stormwater management analysis and environmental permitting efforts
  1. Prepare engineering calculations, technical reports, and construction documentation
  1. Utilize Civil 3D, AutoCAD, Trimble Business Center, and Microsoft Office to develop engineering designs and project deliverables
  1. Conduct site visits and prepare field reports as needed to support project development and coordination
  1. Coordinate with clients, contractors, regulatory agencies, and internal teams throughout the project lifecycle
  1. Support project schedules and ensure work is completed within established deadlines and quality standards
  1. Assist with project planning and coordination to maintain project efficiency and organization

Competencies (KSACs)

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Competencies

Knowledge of:

  • Civil engineering principles related to land development and infrastructure design
  • Stormwater management practices and regulatory requirements
  • Site grading, roadway design, and utility layout principles
  • Municipal and local development standards and permitting processes

Skilled in:

  • Civil engineering design using AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Preparing engineering calculations, reports, and construction documentation
  • Coordinating with project teams, agencies, and clients
  • Managing multiple assignments while maintaining organization and attention to detail

Ability to:

  • Communicate clearly and effectively with clients, agencies, and internal teams
  • Think critically and solve engineering challenges efficiently
  • Maintain project schedules while managing multiple priorities
  • Contribute to a collaborative, team-focused work environment

Preferred Qualifications

The following qualifications are desirable but not required:

  • Project management experience
  • Experience working with Metro Nashville and surrounding municipalities
  • Active involvement in professional engineering organizations
  • Licensure in additional states
  • Leadership experience or interest in mentoring junior staff
  • Interest in supporting business development initiatives

Benefits & Perks

BENEFITS AND PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Employees of L.I. Smith & Associates are provided with competitive compensation and benefits designed to support professional growth, financial stability, and work-life balance.

  • Competitive, bi-weekly pay with full benefits
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits (LIS pays 64% of employee medical premiums)
  • Retirement plan with 3% company match
  • Childcare stipend
  • Company provided life insurance
  • Work on large-scale, high-impact construction projects across Tennessee
  • Be part of a respected, field-first survey and engineering team that supports each other
  • Opportunities to grow into leadership, project management, or specialized technical roles
  • Support for industry training and certifications
  • A company that values safety, accuracy, accountability, and the people doing the work

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position held and whether the position is full-time, part-time, or contract.

About L.I. Smith & Associates

L.I. Smith & Associates, Inc. (LIS) is a full-service civil engineering and land surveying firm serving public and private clients throughout Tennessee. Headquartered in Paris, TN, with a branch office in Nashville, LIS is known for practical engineering solutions, strong client relationships, and a collaborative workplace that values technical excellence and long-term professional growth.