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

Hitachi

Mechanical Engineer I

Nashville, TN · On-site

This entry-level role works closely with senior engineers to develop custom automation solutions, contribute to project success, and build technical skills in a collaborative environment. Ideal ...

Wood Plc

Junior Water Resources Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$76K - $104K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting entry level Water Resources Engineers in our growing water resources group based in Nashville, TN, with staff in Louisville, KY; Knoxville, TN;

Ultium-Cells-LL

Controls Engineer

Spring Hill, TN · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

The engineer will be trained and developed in Mitsubishi PLC programming to: * Program the ... op, entry level job role, or similar highly preferred. * Exposure to controls and electrical ...

Posted today

Intertek

Staff Geotechnical Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

The Staff Geotechnical Engineer is responsible for conducting Geotechnical engineering on local projects. Entry level for Technical/Professional work. Works under close supervision of an experienced ...

Intertek

Staff Geotechnical Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

The Staff Geotechnical Engineer is responsible for conducting Geotechnical engineering on local projects. Entry level for Technical/Professional work. Works under close supervision of an experienced ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsEngineer JobsEntry Level Engineer JobsEntry Level Engineer Jobs in Columbia, TN

Entry Level Engineer information

See Columbia, TN salary details

$27.3K

$63.1K

$107.3K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Columbia, TN is $63,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,800.00 and $71,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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 certifications in tools like AutoCAD or MATLAB can improve your chances; demonstrating problem-solving abilities and a willingness to learn are also important for employers.

What is the easiest entry level engineer job to get into?

Entry-level engineering roles such as manufacturing, technician, or quality assurance positions are often considered easier to obtain due to lower experience requirements and high demand. These jobs typically require basic technical skills, familiarity with tools or software relevant to the field, and sometimes a relevant certification or associate degree.

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 technical skills such as proficiency in CAD, programming, or specific tools. Additionally, many positions require a bachelor's degree and sometimes certifications, which can limit the pool of qualified applicants and make entry into the field more challenging.
More about Entry Level Engineer jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Columbia, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,053 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Entry Level Civil Design Engineer in Training

Thomas & Hutton

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Kick-start your civil-engineering career where your work shapes communities across the Southeast. At Thomas & Hutton, you'll design real-world land-development projects, learn directly from seasoned mentors, and grow within a company celebrated as a Best Place to Work. If you're eager to pair your classroom knowledge with hands-on experience, and do it alongside people who value relationships as much as results, this role is for you.
What You'll Do:
  • Design site-development plans for residential, commercial, and industrial sites
  • Create water, sewer, and storm-drainage layouts and construction drawings
  • Prepare permit packages and navigate agency requirements
  • Coordinate daily with clients, project managers, and discipline teams
  • Model designs in AutoCAD Civil 3D and refine them through reviews
  • Manage tasks to meet scope, schedule, and quality goals

What You Bring:
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering
  • Engineer-in-Training certification (or ability to obtain within 6 months)
  • Working knowledge of AutoCAD; Civil 3D proficiency preferred
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills
  • Attention to detail and commitment to organized, accurate work
  • Drive to juggle multiple priorities in a fast-paced setting

Why Thomas & Hutton?
  • Competitive salary plus performance bonus
  • Condensed work schedule for better work-life balance
  • Top-tier health, dental, vision, and prescription coverage
  • 401(k), generous PTO, holidays, and tuition assistance
  • Thomas & Hutton University and hands-on Civil 3D mentoring to advance your career

Schedule:
On-site: Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Friday 7:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
How to apply:
Ready to design the future? Apply today at www.thomasandhutton.com/careers.
At Thomas & Hutton, our mission of "Building Relationships and Solutions for Success" shapes how we serve our clients, strengthen our communities, and invest in our team. As a private employee-owned firm consistently recognized as a Top Workplace and recipient of PSMJ's Build a Better World Award, we're known not only for exceptional projects but for how we treat people and our communities.
When you join Thomas & Hutton, you'll discover a career with real purpose. We equip you with cutting-edge tools, technology, and software to work efficiently and excel. Our career development programs, including PaTHways and T&H University, combine with approachable leadership and a collaborative environment to support your professional growth at every stage. Pair that with industry leading benefits, genuine work-life balance, and meaningful opportunities to give back through T&H Helping Hands, and it's clear why so many professionals choose to grow their careers here.
Learn more at www.thomasandhutton.com
Please note: Sponsorship is not available for this position. Thomas & Hutton is a Drug-Free Workplace and an E-Verify participant.
We are an equal opportunity employer.
Qualified minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Apply