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Entry Level Civil Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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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 19, 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.
Entry Level Electrical Engineer - Engineering Associate I

Entry Level Electrical Engineer - Engineering Associate I

Mesa Associates, Inc.

Chattanooga, TN

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

PDS 8 / Power Delivery Substation

This position is not eligible for recruiting or sourcing by outside parties.

Mesa seeks an entry-level Substation Physical Engineer that is looking to start their career in the electric power industry. This position is for our Power Delivery Substation group which supports various clients across the United States.

What We’re Looking for

  • Recent graduate with a bachelor’s degree in electrical, mechanical, or civil engineering (ABET Accredited).
  • Fast learner – You can pick up new concepts, standards, and software quickly.
  • Self-starter – You’ll get direction from senior engineers, but you’re comfortable hunting down answers on your own when the path isn’t obvious.
  • Solid understanding of fundamentals – Ohm’s law, single-phase systems, three-phase power systems, and digital logic.
  • Clear communicator – You feel comfortable reaching out to others with questions and can communicate professionally face-to-face, on the phone, and over email.
  • Desire to pursue Professional Engineering licensure.

What You’ll Learn

  • Substation Physical concepts – Fundamentals of foundation, grounding, and cable routing design, as well as equipment power ratings, clearances, and conductor sizing
  • Design Software – AutoCAD/MicroStation, Bluebeam Revu, Microsoft Excel, etc.
  • Project lifecycle – How a project moves from conception, through design, to completion.
  • Cross-disciplinary collaboration – Coordinate with senior engineers, designers, project managers, and client personnel from other groups, such as Protection and Controls, Civil, Studies, etc.

What You’ll Do

  • Work on a team of drafters, designers, and engineers
  • Increase your knowledge under the mentorship of senior engineers
  • Create equipment, structural, foundation, grounding, and cable routing plans and details
  • Perform lightning and grounding studies
  • Coordinate with other engineering disciplines
  • Develop Bill of Materials (BOM)
  • Maintain quality assurance standards by completing client and internal checklists
  • Perform peer-review of designs
  • Progress to independent project ownership

What You’ll Earn

  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Pay – 10 Days Annually
  • Group Medical/Dental Insurance
  • Life Insurance (Company Paid)
  • Disability Insurance (Company Paid)
  • 401(K) Retirement Savings plan
  • 401(K) Matching Contribution
  • Section 125/Cafeteria Plan
  • Long Term Care Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Fitness Center Reimbursement
  • Annual Performance Bonus
  • 9/80 Work Schedule Option

Notice to External Search Firms: Mesa Associates, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not accept unsolicited resumes and will not be obligated to pay a placement fee for unsolicited resumes. Mesa Associates, Inc. Talent Acquisition engages with approved search firms directly for specific hiring needs.