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Data Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Data Engineer

Farragut, TN · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

The Geospatial Science & Engineering Division (GSED), of the National Security Sciences Directorate (NSSD), is seeking a highly motivated Data Engineer to support the automation of image processing ...

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Data Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN

$109K - $131K/yr

This position requires a strong background in image processing, data engineering, workflow automation, geospatial data systems, and applied analytics, along with experience working in secure mission ...

American Bureau of Shipping

Data Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

The Senior Consultant I - Data Engineer provides technical expertise on project tasks under the supervision of a project manager to deliver quality services on schedule, within budget, and in ...

American Bureau of Shipping

Data Engineer

Knoxville, TN · Remote

$120K - $155K/yr

The Senior Consultant I - Data Engineer provides technical expertise on project tasks under the supervision of a project manager to deliver quality services on schedule, within budget, and in ...

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Data Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

This position requires a strong background in image processing, data engineering, workflow automation, geospatial data systems, and applied analytics, along with experience working in secure mission ...

Vital Services

Senior Data Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · Hybrid

$110K - $130K/yr

As a Senior Data Engineer, you will work closely with our customer's department leads and project coordinators to evaluate business needs and develop reports and dashboards to support strategic goals.

Brunswick

Adobe Products Data Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$87K - $128K/yr

The ideal candidate combines strong data engineering capabilities with hands-on experience across Adobe products and a solid understanding of identity resolution, data governance, and profile ...

Lund Boats

Adobe Products Data Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$87K - $128K/yr

The ideal candidate combines strong data engineering capabilities with hands-on experience across Adobe products and a solid understanding of identity resolution, data governance, and profile ...

MBI - Malibu Boats, Inc

Senior Data Engineer

Loudon, TN · On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

The Senior Data Engineer designs, builds, and supports the data pipelines, integrations, and platform capabilities that power Malibu Boats, Inc.'s business applications, manufacturing operations ...

Malibu Boats, LLC

Senior Data Engineer

Loudon, TN · On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

The Senior Data Engineer designs, builds, and supports the data pipelines, integrations, and platform capabilities that power Malibu Boats, Inc.'s business applications, manufacturing operations ...

Malibu Boats Inc.

Senior Data Engineer

Loudon, TN · On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

The Senior Data Engineer designs, builds, and supports the data pipelines, integrations, and platform capabilities that power Malibu Boats, Inc.'s business applications, manufacturing operations ...

Mammoth Holdings LLC

Full Stack Data Engineer

Alcoa, TN · On-site

Description We are seeking a Full Stack Data Engineer to join our Data & Analytics team. This role is for someone who is genuinely strong with databases and great at connecting things together: you ...

Mammoth Holdings LLC

Full Stack Data Engineer

Alcoa, TN · On-site

Description We are seeking a Full Stack Data Engineer to join our Data & Analytics team. This role is for someone who is genuinely strong with databases and great at connecting things together: you ...

Pure Magic

Full Stack Data Engineer

Alcoa, TN · On-site

We are seeking a Full Stack Data Engineer to join our Data & Analytics team. This role is for someone who is genuinely strong with databases and great at connecting things together: you will design ...

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All JobsData Engineer JobsData Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Data Engineer information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$38.6K

$112.5K

$154K

How much do data engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for data engineer in Oak Ridge, TN is $112,541.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,300.00 and $119,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a data engineer?

Data Engineers are IT professionals who design, construct, install, and maintain large-scale processing systems and other infrastructure for collecting, storing, and analyzing data. They build and optimize data pipelines and architectures that allow organizations to efficiently access and use data for business insights. Data Engineers work closely with data scientists, analysts, and other stakeholders to ensure that data is reliable, accessible, and secure. Their responsibilities often include working with databases, cloud platforms, and big data tools.

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

To thrive as a Data Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, data modeling, and programming languages such as Python or Java, often coupled with a relevant degree. Familiarity with ETL tools, big data frameworks (like Hadoop or Spark), and cloud platforms (such as AWS or Azure) is typically required, along with certifications like AWS Certified Data Analytics. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set exceptional data engineers apart. These skills and qualities are essential for building robust data pipelines, ensuring data quality, and supporting data-driven decision-making across organizations.

What does a data engineer do?

The job duties of a data engineer involve helping with the development of systems, software, and infrastructure used to process, store and analyze data. Your responsibilities in this career include working to install data management software. Your employer may expect you to perform maintenance and install updates to all software and systems that they use for data acquisition, management, and analysis. Data engineers also analyze existing data systems to find ways to improve efficiency and accessibility. You then suggest upgrades or changes based on your assessment.

How do data engineers typically collaborate with data scientists and analysts within an organization?

Data Engineers play a crucial role in ensuring that Data Scientists and Analysts have reliable, well-structured data for their projects. This collaboration often involves building and maintaining data pipelines, optimizing data storage solutions, and troubleshooting data quality issues. Regular communication and agile teamwork are common, with Data Engineers frequently participating in meetings to understand analytical requirements and adjust data processes accordingly. By working closely together, these teams can quickly iterate on data models and deliver actionable insights to drive business decisions.

What is the difference between Data Engineer vs Data Scientist?

AspectData EngineerData Scientist
Primary FocusBuilding and maintaining data pipelines and infrastructureAnalyzing data to extract insights and create models
SkillsSQL, ETL, programming (Python, Java), database managementStatistics, machine learning, data analysis, programming (Python, R)
Work EnvironmentData warehouses, cloud platforms, backend systemsData analysis environments, research labs, visualization tools
Common ToolsApache Spark, Hadoop, Airflow, SQLJupyter, RStudio, Tableau, scikit-learn

Data Engineers focus on creating and maintaining the infrastructure that allows data to be collected, stored, and processed efficiently. Data Scientists analyze this data to generate insights, build predictive models, and support decision-making. While their skills overlap, Data Engineers are more involved in data pipeline development, whereas Data Scientists focus on data analysis and modeling.

Is a data engineer entry level?

Data engineering is typically an intermediate to senior-level role that requires experience with programming, databases, and data pipeline tools. Entry-level positions may be available for those with relevant internships or strong foundational skills, but most data engineering roles demand several years of experience or advanced knowledge of tools like SQL, Python, and cloud platforms.

What is the role of a data engineer?

A data engineer designs, builds, and maintains data pipelines and infrastructure to collect, process, and store large volumes of data. They work with tools like SQL, Python, and cloud platforms to ensure data is accessible and reliable for analysis and decision-making.
More about Data Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Data Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Data Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What job categories do people searching Data Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Data Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Data Engineer jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Data Engineer job openings:

Data Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Data Engineer job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,541 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

Data Engineer

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Farragut, TN • On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description

Requisition Id 16994
Overview:
The Geospatial Science & Engineering Division (GSED), of the National Security Sciences Directorate (NSSD), is seeking a highly motivated Data Engineer to support the automation of image processing and data science workflows in a classified environment. This position will contribute to the development of scalable analytic pipelines, automated exploitation tools, and reproducible computational workflows that improve the processing, integration, and interpretation of imagery, geospatial, and operational datasets.
The successful candidate will assess research and operational needs and develop more complex data science solutions that advance organizational objectives. This role will conduct sophisticated analyses, integrate methodologies, and interpret outcomes to support innovation and improve efficiency. The selected individual will define systems and processes that enhance accuracy, scalability, security, and reproducibility of results across projects.
This position requires a strong background in image processing, data engineering, workflow automation, geospatial data systems, and applied analytics, along with experience working in secure mission environments. The ideal candidate will be capable of translating complex datasets into actionable insights through dashboards, reports, technical artifacts, and user-facing tools, while supporting both research and operational objectives.
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Develop and automate image processing and data science workflows that support mission-driven analysis in classified environments.
  • Design, implement, and maintain scalable pipelines for ingesting, cleaning, transforming, integrating, and analyzing imagery, geospatial, and structured operational data.
  • Assess data science project requirements and determine appropriate methods, tools, and technologies for workflow automation, image exploitation, and analytic delivery.
  • Define systems and processes that ensure data integrity, scalability, auditability, and reproducibility of results across projects.
  • Build and optimize data models, schemas, and databases that improve data quality, usability, and interoperability across systems.
  • Support the automation of preprocessing, feature extraction, metadata exploitation, validation, and quality control for image and geospatial datasets.
  • Deliver project results and confer with peers and stakeholders to ensure alignment with research, operational, and sponsor objectives.
  • Contribute to dashboards, technical documentation, reports, software prototypes, briefings, and other artifacts that communicate methods and findings.
  • Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:
  • BS degree in computer science or a related field, and two years of relevant experience data science, image processing, geospatial analysis, data engineering, software engineering, or a related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
  • Demonstrated experience designing and implementing end-to-end data systems or automated analytical workflows.
  • Experience processing and analyzing large, complex datasets, including imagery, geospatial data, and operational or mission-relevant data sources.
  • Experience with Python, SQL, and common libraries/frameworks for data analysis, workflow automation, and image or geospatial data processing.
  • Experience with relational databases, data modeling, ETL pipelines, and data wrangling to support scalable and reliable analytical workflows.
  • Experience translating analytical outputs into dashboards, reports, visualizations, or briefings for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and apply data science methods to improve efficiency, accessibility, and decision-making.
  • Experience working in secure or classified environments with strong attention to compliance, auditability, and proper data handling practices.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively on multidisciplinary teams.
  • Ability to work independently, plan and arrange own work, and coordinate with management to prioritize projects.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • BS degree in data science, computer science, geospatial science, remote sensing, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related discipline.
  • Experience with image processing, imagery analysis, computer vision, or geospatial exploitation workflows involving satellite imagery, full-motion video, or related sensor data.
  • Experience with ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Enterprise, PostGIS, GeoPandas, or other geospatial analytics and visualization tools.
  • Experience developing natural language interfaces, retrieval-augmented generation systems, or other AI-enabled tools that improve access to structured or unstructured data.
  • Experience with machine learning, artificial intelligence, and/or natural language processing applied to operational or analytical workflows.
  • Experience operating LLM or AI workflows in secure or air-gapped environments.
  • Experience building guardrails, validation mechanisms, and controlled execution workflows for automated analytic systems.
  • Experience with Docker, Linux, cloud platforms, or other technologies supporting deployment and reproducible software workflows.
  • Experience coaching team members in technical skill development and promoting proper data practices.
  • Certification in data science, machine learning, geospatial analysis, or a related field.

Special Requirements:
  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  • Active TS//SCI clearance required at time of hire.
  • This position requires work on-site in secure facilities and may not be eligible for remote work.

About ORNL:
As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.
ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.
Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.
This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.
We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.
If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.
ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.

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