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Entry Level Civil Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Stantec

Traffic EIT

Nashville, TN · On-site

Your Opportunity The role of an entry level Civil EIT is to work as a team member on innovative transportation projects under the guidance of a Senior Engineer. The Civil EIT will work under close ...

Stantec

Traffic EIT

Nashville, TN · On-site

Your Opportunity The role of an entry level Civil EIT is to work as a team member on innovative transportation projects under the guidance of a Senior Engineer. The Civil EIT will work under close ...

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All JobsCivil Engineer JobsEntry Level Civil Engineer JobsEntry Level Civil Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

Entry Level Civil Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$36.8K

$66.7K

$109.8K

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

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level civil engineer in Tennessee is $66,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,200.00 and $80,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

Entry-level civil engineers typically earn salaries well below $500,000 annually. High earnings in civil engineering are usually associated with senior positions, specialized skills, project management, or working in high-demand sectors and locations. Achieving a $500,000 salary generally requires many years of experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles.

Is AI replacing civil engineers?

AI is not replacing civil engineers but is increasingly used to assist with tasks such as data analysis, design optimization, and project management. Civil engineers still require skills in planning, problem-solving, and oversight, which AI tools support rather than replace. Developing proficiency in software and technology is important for future job performance in the field.

What does an entry level civil engineer do?

An entry level civil engineer assists in the planning, design, and construction of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, helping with drafting, site inspections, data collection, and project documentation. Entry level civil engineers also use computer-aided design (CAD) software, conduct basic calculations, and ensure that projects comply with safety and environmental regulations. Their role is essential in gaining practical experience and learning industry standards.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Civil Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, strong analytical skills, and foundational knowledge of engineering principles. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, civil engineering modeling tools, and basic project management systems is typically required. Effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for accurately designing infrastructure, collaborating with diverse project teams, and ensuring projects are completed safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Entry Level Civil Engineer vs Civil Engineering Technician?

AspectEntry Level Civil EngineerCivil Engineering Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical diploma in civil engineering technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, project management, site supervisionAssisting engineers with surveying, drafting, and data collection
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, government agenciesConstruction firms, consulting firms, public works departments

Entry Level Civil Engineers typically hold a bachelor's degree and focus on design, planning, and project management, while Civil Engineering Technicians usually have an associate degree and support engineers with technical tasks like surveying and drafting. Both roles are essential in civil projects but differ in education requirements and daily responsibilities.

How to become a civil engineer with no experience?

To become an entry-level civil engineer with no experience, pursue a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field, and gain practical skills through internships or co-op programs. Developing proficiency in engineering software like AutoCAD and understanding construction principles can improve job prospects; obtaining a Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam certification is also beneficial.

What is an entry-level civil engineer?

An entry-level civil engineer is a professional who has recently started their career in civil engineering, typically holding a bachelor's degree in the field. They assist with designing, planning, and overseeing construction projects, often working under supervision and using tools like AutoCAD. This role provides foundational experience for advancing to more senior positions.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an Entry Level Civil Engineer expect during their first year on the job?

As an Entry Level Civil Engineer, you will typically assist with tasks such as drafting design plans, preparing reports, conducting field inspections, and supporting senior engineers on larger projects. Early on, you may work on site development, transportation, or water resources projects, helping with data collection, calculations, and creating construction documents. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including surveyors, architects, and contractors—is common, and you’ll likely be mentored by experienced engineers to build your technical and project management skills. This exposure provides a solid foundation for career growth and deeper involvement in project coordination over time.

What Does an Entry-Level Civil Engineer Do?

An entry-level civil engineer performs a variety of duties related to designing and constructing infrastructure or public works systems, such as public buildings, highways, bridges, sewer systems, dams, viaducts, and other large structures. As an entry-level engineer, you help draft blueprints, take surveys of building sites, perform risk analysis, map projects, and perform research into public records and other documents pertaining to the project. You may also help draw up budgets and assess the costs of projects. You typically work under the supervision of lead engineers and project managers.

More about Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs
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 Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in Tennessee? For Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Civil Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in TN? For Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Civil Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,735 per year, or $32.1 per hour.
Civil Engineer - Land Development

Civil Engineer - Land Development

Civil Environmental Consultants Inc.

Knoxville, TN • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Overview

As an Entry Level-Civil Engineer for Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. (CEC) in our Knoxville, TN office, you'll work with project teams to create land development plans for our private, public and energy sector clients. From an urban redevelopment site, industrial sites, to a new school project, you'll take part in designing site layouts, grading plans, storm water management facilities, water quality best management practices, and utilities. Interacting with clients, contractors, local government officials, you'll impact the whole project - from conceptual and design phases, through the regulatory review process, bidding, and construction, all the way to project completion.

At CEC, our employees enjoy a flexible/hybrid work schedule. Our comprehensive benefits package includes bonus recognition, based on performance, as well as participation in our employee stock ownership program. Additionally, we conduct mid-year and end-of-year performance reviews and provide goal-setting opportunities.

Our Knoxville office, located in the heart of East Tennessee, is home to a dynamic and collaborative team of professionals. Nestled near the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a strong sense of community. The city boasts excellent schools and a thriving downtown with restaurants, entertainment, and outdoor spaces. Whether you're exploring the nearby national park, enjoying a CEC Tailgate at a University of Tennessee game, or connecting with a supportive professional network, Knoxville is a great place to live, work, and grow.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work for Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. (CEC) in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering;
  • E.I.T. or F.E. certification preferred;
  • Excellent communication skills;
  • Knowledge of industry standard software;
  • Experience and knowledge of commercial real estate site design is a plus.
About Us

We have experts! CEC is consistently ranked as a Top 500 Design Firm and Top 200 Environmental Firm by Engineering News-Record. We are looking for people who enjoy using their education and experience to solve difficult technical problems and work on interesting projects. You can accomplish this while working with a team of professionals who are equally motivated to provide high levels of service to our clients and to teach you along the way.

We have support! We have a variety of Employee Resource Groups, including CEC Community - focused on giving back to the communities in which we work; CEC Ignite - focused on helping professionals early in their careers to develop their pathway; CEC iDEA - focused on inclusion, diversity, equality, and acceptance; and CEC Women - focused on creating internal and external opportunities for women to network and leverage professional experience!

We care about our people! People and Culture are two of the five elements of our strategic plan. When you care about your people, they will want to grow a career with you - that is our goal. CEC offers you a small-firm work environment with large-firm opportunities. Not only will we help you develop professionally, but we will also provide an opportunity to become an owner of the firm and share in its success.

CEC offers a matching 401(k); profit sharing; a performance bonus; company stock; medical, dental, and vision insurance; short and long-term disability; tuition assistance; professional development; and work-life balance.

CEC is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in recruiting, hiring or promotion based on race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender status), national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis or characteristic prohibited by applicable federal, state, or local law.

THIRD PARTY RECRUITERS

If CEC has not expressly requested recruiting services or contractually engaged with you for recruiting services on a specific position, any resumes or candidate profiles sent to CEC shall be considered unsolicited.  Therefore, any such submissions will be considered property of CEC, with no associated fees due to your firm.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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