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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Athens, TN (NOW HIRING)

This entry-level position works closely with the Manufacturing Engineering Supervisor to support production, improve manufacturing processes, and ensure accurate engineering documentation. This role ...

New

This entry-level position works closely with the Manufacturing Engineering Supervisor to support production, improve manufacturing processes, and ensure accurate engineering documentation. This role ...

This entry-level position works closely with the Manufacturing Engineering Supervisor to support production, improve manufacturing processes, and ensure accurate engineering documentation. This role ...

New

Entry Level Engineer information

See Athens, TN salary details

$25.1K

$58.1K

$98.9K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Athens, TN is $58,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,100.00 and $65,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I get into entry level engineering with no experience?

Entry level engineering positions often require a relevant degree in engineering or a related field. Gaining practical skills through internships, co-op programs, or personal projects, and learning industry tools like CAD or MATLAB, can improve your chances. Certifications such as Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) can also demonstrate your commitment and knowledge to employers.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level engineers often face challenges such as adapting to new tools and technologies, understanding company-specific processes, and translating theoretical knowledge into practical solutions. It's also common to navigate working on multidisciplinary teams and learning effective communication with colleagues from different backgrounds. With guidance from mentors and proactive engagement, these challenges become valuable learning experiences that contribute to professional growth.

Why is it so hard to find an entry-level engineer job?

Entry-level engineering jobs are competitive because employers often seek candidates with relevant internships, project experience, or specific technical skills such as proficiency in CAD, programming, or industry-standard tools. Additionally, many positions require a bachelor's degree in engineering or related fields, and the limited availability of entry-level roles can make the job search challenging for new graduates.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Engineer, you need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as CAD tools, MATLAB, or project management platforms, as well as relevant internships or certifications, is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you collaborate effectively and learn quickly in a dynamic environment. These skills ensure you can contribute to projects, adapt to organizational needs, and grow professionally in the engineering field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; internships helpfulBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; licensure optional for some roles
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, manufacturing plants, construction sites, labsDesign, testing, manufacturing, research and development
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions across various engineering sectorsMid to senior roles, but entry-level positions are common in manufacturing and design firms

Entry Level Engineers typically have a bachelor's degree and gain hands-on experience through internships. They work in diverse environments like design firms and manufacturing plants. Mechanical Engineers, while often requiring similar credentials, may start in entry-level roles but are more specialized in mechanical systems. Both roles are common in engineering industries, but the term 'Entry Level Engineer' is broader, encompassing various engineering disciplines, including mechanical engineering.

What is an entry level engineer?

An entry-level engineer designs, builds, and maintains the functional aspects of a product, structure, or system for their specific engineering industry. All engineers start out in an entry-level position with fewer responsibilities until they gain work experience. Many start gaining experience through an internship or apprenticeship before moving into an entry-level position. An entry-level engineer job description relates to all of the education requirements, skills, detailed tasks, responsibilities that a company or organization requires for their specific engineering job. For example, civil engineers design, construct, and maintain large infrastructure projects, such as highways, bridges, and airports. Electrical engineers design, monitor, and test electrical systems.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Athens, TN?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Athens, TN are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Engineer jobs in Athens, TN?

For Entry Level Engineer jobs in Athens, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Engineer jobs in Athens, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Engineer jobs in Athens, TN are:

What cities near Athens, TN are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs?

Cities near Athens, TN with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Athens, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,106 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Description

Company Bio

Since 2004, Merritt Precision has specialized in the design, engineering, and manufacture of large-format composite plugs, molds, and tooling for the marine, aerospace, and industrial markets. With facilities in Sweetwater, TN, and Merritt Island, FL, we provide 3D design, scanning, CNC milling, composite fabrication, and tooling solutions for customers across multiple industries. As part of Correct Craft, we are committed to innovation, operational excellence, and developing great people.

Job Summary

The CAD Technician I supports the Manufacturing Engineering team by creating and maintaining 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and manufacturing documentation. This entry-level position works closely with the Manufacturing Engineering Supervisor to support production, improve manufacturing processes, and ensure accurate engineering documentation. This role provides an excellent opportunity for someone looking to begin a career in manufacturing engineering.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

 This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and must not require current or future sponsorship for employment authorization. 

CAD Design & Documentation

Create and revise 3D models and 2D engineering drawings using software such as SolidWorks, Rhino 8, VCarve Pro, NX, and ControlX. 

Maintain CAD files, revisions, and engineering documentation in accordance with established standards. 

Design production-ready models and blueprints for fiberglass mold steel framing and fiberglass lamination kits.

Assist with Bills of Materials (BOMs) and engineering changes. 

Manufacturing Engineering Support

Support Design for Manufacturing (DFM) initiatives. 

Assist with manufacturing layouts, fixtures, and tooling designs. 

Help develop standardized work instructions and documentation. 

Continuous Improvement

Participate in Lean Manufacturing and process improvement projects. 

Assist in identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and quality. 

Support implementation of engineering and manufacturing improvements. 

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Work with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Scheduling to support manufacturing needs. 

Perform hands-on CNC manufacturing support through programming and operation.

Communicate engineering changes and provide technical support to production teams. 

Education & Experience

Required

Associate degree or Technical Certificate in CAD, Engineering Technology, Mechanical Design, or related field, or equivalent experience. 

Basic understanding of engineering drawings.

Experience with Solidworks, Rhino, NX, or similar. 

Strong computer, communication, and organizational skills. 

Preferred

Experience with VCarve, and ControlX. 

Internship or experience in manufacturing. 

Knowledge of composite manufacturing or CNC machining. 

Physical Requirements

Ability to work at a computer for extended periods. 

Ability to walk manufacturing facilities and wear required PPE. 

Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Merritt Precision is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement

Merritt Precision is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to qualified individuals with disabilities. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a position, unless doing so would create an undue hardship. Merritt Precision engages in an interactive process with applicants and employees to identify reasonable accommodations.