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Data Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Process Engineer Responsibilities include: Entry level engineering graduate. Responsible for ... Conducts data analysis projects and uses data to make business decisions. Assignments may include ...

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Data Engineer Entry Level information

See Tennessee salary details

$40.4K

$117.7K

$161.1K

How much do data engineer entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for data engineer entry level in Tennessee is $117,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,900.00 and $124,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I get a data engineer job with no experience?

Entry-level data engineering roles typically require some knowledge of programming, databases, and data processing tools like SQL, Python, or Spark. While prior experience is not always mandatory, demonstrating relevant skills through coursework, certifications, or personal projects can improve your chances of securing an entry-level position.

What are some typical projects or tasks that entry-level data engineers work on during their first year?

As an entry-level data engineer, you can expect to work on tasks such as building and maintaining data pipelines, cleaning and transforming raw data, and supporting the integration of different data sources. You'll often collaborate with data analysts and more senior engineers to ensure data is accurate, accessible, and well-documented. Early projects might include automating data extraction processes, setting up basic ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) workflows, or optimizing database queries. These foundational responsibilities help build the technical and teamwork skills essential for career growth in data engineering.

Will AI replace data engineer?

AI is unlikely to fully replace data engineers, as their role involves designing, building, and maintaining data pipelines, which require complex problem-solving and domain expertise. Instead, AI tools can augment their work by automating routine tasks, allowing data engineers to focus on more strategic and complex aspects of data management and analysis.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level data engineers do not earn this level of salary, highly experienced data engineers working in finance, technology, or consulting firms can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Such salaries typically require advanced skills in big data tools, cloud platforms, and extensive industry experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Data Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Data Engineer, you need foundational knowledge in programming (such as Python or SQL), data structures, and database management, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with ETL tools, cloud platforms (like AWS or Azure), and version control systems is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with teams and adapt to evolving data needs. These skills ensure accurate data processing, efficient pipeline development, and successful integration within data-driven organizations.

Is data engineering an entry level job?

Data engineering can be an entry level position, especially for roles that focus on basic data pipeline development and require foundational skills in SQL, Python, or cloud platforms. However, many data engineering roles prefer candidates with some experience or knowledge of big data tools like Hadoop or Spark, making some positions more suitable for those with intermediate skills.

What does a Data Engineer Entry Level do?

An entry-level data engineer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining systems that allow organizations to collect, store, and analyze large amounts of data. They typically work with databases, data pipelines, and cloud platforms to ensure data is accessible and reliable for analysis. Entry-level data engineers often assist with cleaning and transforming raw data, automating data workflows, and supporting data scientists and analysts. They also learn best practices in data security and performance optimization as they gain experience.

What is the difference between Data Engineer Entry Level vs Data Analyst Entry Level?

AspectData Engineer Entry LevelData Analyst Entry Level
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, IT, or related field; some certifications (e.g., Google Cloud, AWS)Bachelor's in Statistics, Math, or related field; certifications like Microsoft Data Analyst
Work EnvironmentFocus on building data pipelines, databases, and infrastructureFocus on interpreting data, creating reports, and visualizations
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, finance, healthcare, where data infrastructure is keyBusiness intelligence, marketing, finance, and consulting firms

While both roles involve working with data, Data Engineer Entry Level focuses on developing and maintaining data infrastructure, whereas Data Analyst Entry Level emphasizes analyzing data to generate insights. Both roles require strong technical skills and are essential in data-driven organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Data Engineer jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Data Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What job categories do people searching Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Data Engineer Entry Level jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Data Engineer Entry Level job openings:
Infographic showing various Data Engineer Entry Level job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,733 per year, or $56.6 per hour.
Structural Engineer 1 (Entry-Level) - Nuclear

Structural Engineer 1 (Entry-Level) - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 hours ago


Job description

Description

This position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your academic background in structural engineering in a professional position offering a wide range of interesting and challenging responsibilities. You will team up with other engineers and designers from various disciplines involved in the design of new nuclear facilities, nuclear plant betterment, and associated modifications.

  • As an Entry-Level Structural Engineer, you will have the ability to directly apply your knowledge of materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design.
  • As a member of an engineering and design team, you will work on a wide range of projects for various clients. You will prepare design calculations, develop specifications, and support designers with drawing development.
  • Using our state-of-the-art computer tools, you will perform the structural analysis and design of steel frames, connections, concrete members, equipment and piping supports, and foundations.
  • Additionally, you will conduct structural analyses, which include loading conditions such as wind and seismic.

Additional opportunities will include:

  • Receive training and mentorship from experienced structural design engineers in the execution of meaningful project engineering assignments.
  • There is the potential for you to travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for construction coordination and field verification of designs.
Qualifications

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential skills and experience:

  • A Bachelor's or Master's of Science in Structural/Civil Engineering with a strong academic background and interest in behavior of materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design
    • Completion of coursework in steel and concrete design
  • Knowledge of the practical application of structural engineering including loads analysis for structural supports and design integrity
  • An understanding of the practical application of structural engineering including applying principles, techniques, and procedures to a project design
  • Knowledge of structural design techniques, tools, and principles involved in the production of technical plans, drawings, and models
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications

Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • A Bachelor's or Master's of Science from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program
  • Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and designation as an Engineer in Training
  • Experience in writing and providing support documentation for Structural Engineering calculations
  • Familiarity with structural analysis software such as MathCad, STAAD PRO, SAP2000, SAFE, GT STRUDL, or ANSYS
  • Familiarity with design codes and standards such as IBC, ASCE 7, AISC, N690, ACI 318, and ACI 349
AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools:

  • You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results.
  • Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems.
Award-Winning Benefits

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements
Compensation Range$62,998 - $90,586Transparency StatementSargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.About This Business Unit

Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we've been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!

Awards & RecognitionEqual Opportunity

Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Sargent & Lundy logo

About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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