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Entry Level Construction Project Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

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... and site work / new construction, with a heavy self-perform emphasis. With decades of proven ... The Project Engineer supports the planning, coordination, and execution of commercial tenant ...

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... and site work / new construction, with a heavy self-perform emphasis. With decades of proven ... The Project Engineer supports the planning, coordination, and execution of commercial tenant ...

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The Project Engineer/Administrator is responsible for supporting the successful execution of general construction projects by assisting the Project Manager and Estimator throughout all phases--from ...

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The Project Engineer/Administrator is responsible for supporting the successful execution of general construction projects by assisting the Project Manager and Estimator throughout all phases--from ...

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Entry Level Construction Project Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$30K

$74.5K

$136.6K

How much do entry level construction project engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level construction project engineer in Tennessee is $74,483.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,800.00 and $80,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Construction Project Engineer vs Construction Coordinator?

AspectEntry Level Construction Project EngineerConstruction Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering or related field; internships preferredHigh school diploma or associate degree; relevant experience beneficial
Work EnvironmentOn-site construction sites, project officesOffice setting, on-site visits
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction firms, engineering companiesGeneral contractors, construction management firms

Both roles support construction projects but differ mainly in responsibilities. Entry Level Construction Project Engineers focus on technical planning, design, and assisting with project execution, while Construction Coordinators handle scheduling, communication, and administrative tasks. The engineer role typically requires a degree and technical skills, whereas the coordinator role emphasizes organizational abilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the best fit for their skills and career goals.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Construction Project Engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field, along with a solid understanding of project planning and construction processes. Familiarity with project management software (like Procore or Microsoft Project), AutoCAD, and reading blueprints is typically expected. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you manage tasks, coordinate with teams, and solve problems on-site. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget while facilitating teamwork and minimizing errors.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and often in leadership roles. High compensation may also include bonuses, stock options, or other incentives, typically in large companies or high-demand industries.

Can I get into construction project management with no experience?

Entry level construction project engineers can enter the field with little to no experience if they have relevant education, such as a degree in construction management or engineering, and demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills. Gaining experience through internships, certifications like OSHA, and familiarity with project management tools can improve job prospects. Starting in assistant roles or supporting positions is common before advancing to full project management responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by Entry Level Construction Project Engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry Level Construction Project Engineers often encounter challenges such as learning to effectively coordinate between various stakeholders—including contractors, architects, and suppliers—and managing their time across multiple tasks or job sites. Adapting to the fast-paced environment and resolving unexpected onsite issues can be demanding. New engineers typically need to quickly develop strong communication skills and a solid understanding of construction documentation, safety protocols, and project management software. However, these challenges provide valuable learning experiences and a foundation for long-term career growth in construction management.

What Does an Entry-Level Construction Project Engineer Do?

Entry-level construction project engineers assist senior project engineers with building projects. In this role, you may help plan the construction schedule, act as a liaison for contractors and subcontractors, provide status updates to clients, and answer any questions they may have about the progress. Many companies use this role as a type of extended training period for new engineers; you are supervised in most of your job duties and receive feedback designed to help you improve your skills and prepare for a regular, less-supervised engineering role. This job may require you to travel to different construction sites and work long shifts, including nights, weekends, or holidays, as needed.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level construction project engineers do not earn that level of salary, senior engineers or project managers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially in large-scale projects or high-cost regions. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives beyond base salary.

Can you become a project engineer with no experience?

Entry level construction project engineers can sometimes start with little to no experience if they have relevant education, such as a degree in construction management or engineering, and demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills. Employers often provide on-the-job training and may look for internships or related coursework to supplement experience. Certifications like OSHA safety training can also improve chances of entry into the role.

What does an Entry Level Construction Project Engineer do?

An Entry Level Construction Project Engineer assists in managing construction projects by coordinating schedules, resources, and documentation. They work closely with project managers, contractors, and architects to ensure that building plans are executed correctly and safely. Their tasks often include tracking project progress, assisting with budgeting, and resolving on-site issues. This role provides valuable hands-on experience and is often a stepping stone to more advanced engineering or management positions in construction.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Construction Project Engineer jobs in Tennessee? For Entry Level Construction Project Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Construction Project Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Construction Project Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Construction Project Engineer jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Construction Project Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Construction Project Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,483 per year, or $35.8 per hour.
Project Engineer 1- Aptitude

Project Engineer 1- Aptitude

Je Dunn Construction Group

Nashville, TN • On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


JE Dunn Construction rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Best People + Right Culture. These are the driving forces behind JE Dunn's success.

By hiring inspired people, giving them interesting and challenging work, enabling them with innovative tools, and letting them share in the company's rewards, we've found a sustainable way to grow in our industry for the last 100+ years.

Aptitude, JE Dunn's strategic partner for technology integration services, was born out of the growing need to meet the increasingly complex demands of modern building projects. 

Our diverse teams around the country strive to enrich lives through inspired people and places every day, and we need inspired people like you to join us in our pursuit of building perfection.

Role Summary

The Project Engineer 1 will complete and support construction and field execution responsibilities for construction projects utilizing construction fundamentals and company best practice standards, processes, resources and tools. This position will be responsible for implementing and carrying out many facets of the construction process such as general construction management, punch lists and executing self-perform work, in order to understand the building process and how JE Dunn executes projects. All activities will be performed in support of the strategy, vision and values of JE Dunn. 

  • Autonomy and Decision Making: Makes decisions on assigned area of responsibility, provides recommendations and refers exceptions to supervisor, as needed.
  • Career Path: Project Engineer 2
Key Role Responsibilities - Core

PROJECT ENGINEERING FAMILY - CORE
    Learns and actively participates in all aspects of the company's safety and quality plans and culture by demonstrating commitment to an injury-free environment through individual actions and mentoring others.
    Participates with project QA/QC planning to ensure quality for assigned tasks.
    Learns and participates in the estimating and change management process and tools, including quantity take-off and review of subcontractor proposals. 
    Works on site with the project team to support a variety of tasks such as monitoring crew size, self-perform hours, materials, quantity and equipment.  
    Participates in activities such as punch lists, city inspections, safety reviews, quality reviews and preparation of the necessary documentation.
    Posts drawings and specifications with most recent information.
    Organizes and participates in various project meetings. Prepares and disseminates required documentation as appropriate.
    Participates and prepares a variety of reports including project daily reports, weekly progress reports, unit reporting, percentage complete, daily manpower, production schedules, equipment tracking, etc., in order to support the project.
    Performs periodic job site observations with project leadership.
    Creates procurement logs based on the project schedule and specification requirements. Tracks shop drawings and follows up with deliveries as directed by the project team. 
    Provides progress updates and reports back to the project team to support the scheduling process. 
    Supports the close out of projects, including but not limited to the punch list, operations and maintenance manuals, as-built drawings, etc.
    Utilizes company best practice standards and fundamentals for building and construction techniques. 
    Builds relationships and develops communication and interpersonal skills with tradespeople and project team members such as foreman, journeymen, superintendents, subcontractors, etc. 
    Develops an understanding about the various functions and support roles across the company and how each contributes to the success of a project.  
    Collaborates and demonstrates teamwork in project setting.
    Learns and incorporates Lean practices into regular activities.
    Learns about best practices for identifying, developing and integrating self-perform opportunities into the project. 
 

Key Role Responsibilities - Additional Core

N/A

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Ability to perform work accurately and completely, and in a timely manner
  • Communication skills, verbal and written
  • Proficiency in MS Office
  • Knowledge of organizational structure and available resources
  • Knowledge of Lean process and philosophy
  • Knowledge of required construction technology
  • Ability to apply fundamentals of the means and methods of construction management
  • Knowledge of self-perform and labor productivity
  • Ability to assess and optimize project productivity
  • Knowledge of specific trades and scopes of work
  • Ability to build relationships and collaborate within a team, internally and externally
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering or related field
  • In lieu of the above requirements, equivalent relevant experience will be considered.
Experience
  • Entry level construction experience
  • Low Voltage experience (Preferred)
Working Environment
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • May require periods of travel and/or relocation
  • Must be willing to work non-traditional hours to meet project needs
  • May be exposed to extreme conditions (hot or cold)
  • Frequent activity: Standing, Walking, Climbing, Bending, Reaching above Shoulder, Pushing, Pulling
  • Occasional activity: Sitting, Viewing Computer Screen
Benefits Information

The benefits package aligned to this position is Professional Non-Union. Please click the link below for more details.

Click here for benefits details.

This role is expected to accept applications for at least three business days and may continue to be posted until a qualified applicant is selected or the position has been cancelled.

JE Dunn Construction is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. JE Dunn Construction is a background screening, drug-free workplace.

JE Dunn provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation in order to apply for a job, please submit your request to accommodations@jedunn.com

JE Dunn Construction Company does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or agencies. Any resume submitted to any employee of JE Dunn Construction without a prior written search agreement will be considered unsolicited and the property of JE Dunn Construction Company.  Please, no phone calls or emails.


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