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Contract Designer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Automation | Contract-to-Hire | Nashville, TN ๐Ÿ“ Location ... The ideal candidate has extensive experience designing custom automation equipment and can ...

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Automation | Contract-to-Hire | Nashville, TN Location ... The ideal candidate has extensive experience designing custom automation equipment and can ...

Pipe Support Designer

Kodak, TN ยท On-site

$28 - $32/hr

A manufacturing company in TN is looking to hire four (4) contract to permanent Pipe Supporting Designers to join their company in Kodak, TN. Designers are responsible for creating plans, designs ...

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Overview: The Tennessee Department of Finance & Administration is currently ... TN Package w/ TN Counties + Fingerprinting is not required on every contract - Check the ...

Project Designer

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$60K/yr

... of contract documentation to facilitate pricing, procurement and installation of furniture ... designer, as applicable to jurisdictional requirements for filing with code enforcement officials ...

Project Designer

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$60K/yr

... of contract documentation to facilitate pricing, procurement and installation of furniture ... designer, as applicable to jurisdictional requirements for filing with code enforcement officials ...

Project Designer

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$60K/yr

... of contract documentation to facilitate pricing, procurement and installation of furniture ... designer, as applicable to jurisdictional requirements for filing with code enforcement officials ...

Project Designer

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$60K/yr

... of contract documentation to facilitate pricing, procurement and installation of furniture ... designer, as applicable to jurisdictional requirements for filing with code enforcement officials ...

Electrical Designer

Oak Ridge, TN ยท On-site +1

$30 - $50/hr

We are currently seeking an Electrical Designer to support our Oak Ridge, TN office. As an ... Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract ...

Electrical Designer

Oak Ridge, TN ยท On-site +1

$30 - $50/hr

We are currently seeking an Electrical Designer to support our Oak Ridge, TN office. As an ... Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract ...

Structural Designer

Oak Ridge, TN ยท On-site +1

$30.29 - $48.08/hr

We are currently seeking a Structural Designer to support our Oak Ridge, TN office. We are looking ... Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract ...

Pipe DesignerPurpose Designers are responsible for creating plans, designs, specifications, and ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Kodak, TN. Pay and Benefits ...

Senior Structural Designer

Oak Ridge, TN ยท On-site +1

$40.39 - $60.58/hr

We are looking for a Senior Structural Designer to participate in the design process, assist in ... Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Designer information

See Tennessee salary details

$32.2K

$75.5K

$99.8K

How much do contract designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract designer in Tennessee is $75,467.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,600.00 and $98,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract designer?

Contract Designers are professionals who provide design services to clients on a temporary or project-by-project basis, rather than as full-time employees. They may work in various fields such as graphic design, interior design, or industrial design and are typically hired to complete specific assignments within a set timeframe. Contract Designers often work independently or through agencies, allowing companies flexibility and specialized expertise without a long-term commitment.

How does a contract designer typically collaborate with clients and internal teams during a project?

As a Contract Designer, you will frequently work closely with both clients and internal stakeholders to understand project requirements, present concepts, and refine designs based on feedback. Communication is key, as you'll often participate in meetings, share progress updates, and coordinate with project managers, engineers, or marketers to ensure deliverables align with client expectations and brand guidelines. Effective collaboration helps ensure that projects are completed on time and that the final designs meet both aesthetic and functional needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract designer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Contract Designer, you need expertise in contract law, drafting, and negotiation, usually supported by a degree in law, business, or a related field. Familiarity with contract management software (such as DocuSign, ContractWorks, or Adobe Sign) and relevant certifications like Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) are highly valuable. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities help ensure clarity and compliance in contract terms. These skills are crucial for mitigating risks, protecting organizational interests, and fostering successful business partnerships.

What is the difference between Contract Designer vs Graphic Designer?

AspectContract DesignerGraphic Designer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in design or related field; portfolio often essentialSimilar credentials; degree and portfolio are standard
Work EnvironmentFreelance or project-based; works with multiple clientsEmployed in agencies or in-house teams; may work on multiple projects
Industry UsageCommon in creative agencies, freelance markets, and design studiosWidespread across advertising, marketing, publishing, and corporate branding

Contract Designers focus on project-based work, often freelancing, with flexible schedules and diverse clients. Graphic Designers may work full-time for companies or agencies, creating visual content across various media. Both roles require strong design skills and portfolios, but Contract Designers typically have more flexibility and varied work environments.

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

The most popular types of Designer jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Contract Designer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Contract Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Designer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,467 per year, or $36.3 per hour.

Solidworks Designer

Nashville, TN โ€ข On-site

GABLETEK
Industrial Automation Equipment Manufacturingย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Automation | Contract-to-Hire | Nashville, TN
๐Ÿ“ Location: Nashville, TN (Onsite)
๐Ÿ“… Employment Type: 90-Day Contract-to-Direct Hire
๐Ÿ’ผ Schedule: 50+ Hours Per Week | Flexible Start Time (6:00-8:00 AM)Work Authorization
Local candidates only. Applicants must currently reside within commuting distance of Nashville, TN or be willing to relocate at their own expense before starting.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship. We are not able to sponsor or transfer employment visas (including H-1B, TN, OPT/CPT, or other work visas) for this position. No C2C or third-party candidates.
Successful contractors will be eligible for direct hire after approximately 90 days based on performance and business needs.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer to support the design and development of custom automated assembly systems. This is a hands-on engineering role focused on creating innovative machine designs for complex automation projects.
The ideal candidate has extensive experience designing custom automation equipment and can independently execute complete mechanical designs from concept through release while collaborating with Project Engineers during formal design reviews.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design custom automated assembly equipment using SolidWorks and Windchill
  • Develop complete machine layouts, assemblies, detailed components, and manufacturing drawings
  • Independently evaluate engineering requirements and develop practical mechanical solutions
  • Apply advanced mechanical engineering principles to complex automation and machine design challenges
  • Modify and improve existing machine designs to meet customer-specific requirements
  • Participate in structured design reviews with Project Engineers and implement design revisions
  • Ensure designs meet manufacturability, reliability, safety, and performance standards
  • Collaborate closely with mechanical, controls, manufacturing, and systems integration teams
  • Maintain engineering documentation and design revisions throughout the project lifecycle
  • Deliver accurate, production-ready designs while meeting aggressive project schedules
Required Qualifications
  • 6+ years of mechanical design experience within custom automation, special machines, or automated assembly equipment
  • Advanced proficiency with SolidWorks (Required)
  • Experience with Windchill (Preferred)
  • Strong understanding of:
    • Automated assembly equipment
    • Mechanical machine design
    • Pneumatics
    • Servo-driven mechanisms
    • Linear motion systems
    • Bearings, gearboxes, actuators, and power transmission components
    • Machine safety standards and manufacturability
  • Ability to independently complete complex mechanical designs with minimal supervision
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced engineering environment
  • Excellent communication skills and openness to constructive design feedback
Work Environment
  • Onsite position in Nashville, TN
  • Approximately 50+ hours per week
  • Flexible start time between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM
  • Engineering-focused position with no project management or direct leadership responsibilities
  • Collaborative team environment supporting innovative automation projects