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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Junior Water Resources Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$75K - $103K/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;

Electrical/I&C Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Provide engineering deliverables, including: * One-line diagrams, control schematics, wiring ... (Entry-level positions). * Master's degree or equivalent; or four to ten years related experience ...

Join KEYENCE as a Field Application Engineer Training Classes Begins January or July 2027 Irvine | Los Angeles | Cleveland | San Francisco | Austin | Jacksonville | Atlanta | Entry-Level | Full-Time ...

Education and/or Experience BSME, or related degree from ABET accredited University required Minimum 1 yrs experience in mechanical engineering or project management required Entry level experience ...

Education and/or Experience BSME, or related degree from ABET accredited University required Minimum 1 yrs experience in mechanical engineering or project management required Entry level experience ...

Beyond our connectivity solutions, we also provide local news, programming and regional sports via Spectrum Networks and multiscreen advertising solutions via Spectrum Reach. When you join our team ...

Civil Engineering Intern

Knoxville, TN

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Potential consideration for future entry-level opportunities (as applicable and available ... Knowledge of fundamental engineering principles, standard procedures, and commonly used software ...

Civil Engineering Intern

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Potential consideration for future entry-level opportunities (as applicable and available ... Knowledge of fundamental engineering principles, standard procedures, and commonly used software ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Engineer information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$28.7K

$66.3K

$112.8K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Oak Ridge, TN is $66,313.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,200.00 and $75,000.00 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,313 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Graduate Mechanical Engineer

Salas O'Brien

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Salas O'Brien rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 453 rated engineering


Job description

Graduate Mechanical Engineer
At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That's why we're committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.
Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career-and they'll receive great total rewards along the way.
About Us:
Founded in 1975, Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow's requirements are today's opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.
We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.
Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.
Job Description:
  • Assists in the preparation or modification of reports, specifications, plans, construction schedules, studies, permits and designs for assigned projects.
  • Uses computer assisted engineering and design software and equipment to prepare engineering and design documents.
  • Aids in client contact and communication pertaining to specific projects.
  • Teams with Senior Engineer and participates in all work the Senior Engineer is performing as an observer.
  • Designs equipment, ductwork, and piping layouts using Revit/BIM to meet project needs.
  • Operates engineering software to solve specific problems, and inputs the data required by the program.
  • Familiarize themselves with state-of-the-art design and various state and local regulations.

Qualifications:
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or other relevant degree from ABET accredited school.
  • Past experience through co-op or summer internships helpful.
  • E.I.T. a plus.

Benefits:
  • Gain invaluable industry experience and practical engineering skills.
  • Work with a diverse team of professionals, fostering networking opportunities.
  • Access to mentorship and guidance from experienced engineers.
  • Competitive compensation package.

Location: Knoxville, TN
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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