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Entry Level Material Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Pae

Machine Design Engineer - Entry Level

Tullahoma, TN · On-site

We are looking for an entry-level or early career Mechanical Engineer with strong technical skills ... Mechanics of Materials * Mechanisms/Machine Design * Kinematics * Fluid Dynamics * Thermodynamics

Clayton Homes

Material Planner

Morristown, TN · On-site

From entry-level to more experienced positions, we're actively recruiting individuals who are ... This requires working collaboratively with other departments including Engineering, Production ...

Clayton Homes

Material Planner

Morristown, TN · On-site

From entry-level to more experienced positions, we're actively recruiting individuals who are ... This requires working collaboratively with other departments including Engineering, Production ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsMaterial Engineer JobsEntry Level Material Engineer JobsEntry Level Material Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

Entry Level Material Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$25.6K

$57K

$89.3K

How much do entry level material engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level material engineer in Tennessee is $56,988.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,300.00 and $64,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level material engineer do?

An entry level material engineer assists in developing, testing, and evaluating materials used in manufacturing and product design. Their responsibilities often include analyzing material properties, conducting experiments in labs, preparing technical reports, and supporting senior engineers on various projects. They may also help troubleshoot material failures and recommend improvements. This role provides foundational experience in materials science and engineering principles, often working under supervision while gaining practical skills.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Material Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science or engineering, typically with a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with materials characterization tools (such as SEM, XRD), CAD software, and common lab testing protocols is often required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with colleagues and solve complex problems. These competencies ensure you can contribute to developing and improving materials that meet technical and project requirements.

What are some typical projects and responsibilities for an entry level material engineer in their first year?

As an entry-level material engineer, you will often work on tasks like conducting materials testing, analyzing data, assisting with the development of prototypes, and preparing technical documentation. You'll likely collaborate closely with senior engineers, quality control teams, and manufacturing staff to support ongoing projects. It's common to be involved in troubleshooting material-related issues and participating in team meetings to discuss project progress and challenges. This role provides a solid foundation for learning industry standards and gaining hands-on experience with different materials and processes.

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

AspectEntry Level Material EngineerEntry Level Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or related fieldBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, R&D facilitiesDesign offices, manufacturing plants, testing labs
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, electronics, manufacturingAutomotive, aerospace, energy, manufacturing
Common Search IntentEntry Level Material Engineer roles, job requirements, career pathEntry Level Mechanical Engineer roles, job duties, career options

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in their respective fields and involve working in manufacturing or R&D environments. While Material Engineers focus on developing and testing materials, Mechanical Engineers design and analyze mechanical systems. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and interests.

Entry Level Material Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Material Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,988 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Entry-Level Construction Materials Engineering Technician

S&ME

Nashville, TN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Entry-Level Construction Materials Engineering Technician

Requisition Number: 2026-1470-15


S&ME is looking for a hard-working Entry-Level Construction Materials Engineering Technician ready for hands-on learning to join our Construction Services team in Nashville, Tennessee.


At S&ME, we have a history of delivering innovative geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction material testing for over 50 years. Over the decades, we have grown into a trusted partner for clients across various industries, including transportation, energy, water, waste management, education, government, commercial, industrial, and more. Our commitment to technical excellence and integrity has established us as a leader in our field.

Why Work at S&ME?

  • Career Growth: We invest in your success with mentorship, training, and leadership opportunities.
  • Exciting Projects: Big or small, simple or complex, we do it all. Our projects are as diverse as they are exciting, so every day brings something new.
  • Supportive Culture: Collaboration, respect, and positivity fuel our team environment.
  • Flexibility: Work-life balance matters to us, helping you thrive inside and outside the office.
  • Community Impact: Your work will directly improve the communities where we live, work, and play.

About The Role:

As an entry-level Construction Materials Engineering Technician, you enjoy starting your day outdoors and take pride in hands-on work that impacts the projects you work on. Each day brings new challenges as you help ensure construction quality and safety while growing your technical skills. At S&ME, our Construction Materials Engineering Technicians are vital to ensuring construction projects meet quality and safety standards. From day one, you'll be in the field gaining hands-on experience and building a strong foundation for your career.

  • Start with the Basics: Begin with concrete sampling and testing, then expand into soils, asphalt, and masonry as you grow.
  • Earn While You Learn: Receive paid, on-the-job training and support for certifications through ACI and ICC.
  • Outdoor Work Environment: Enjoy working outside year-round in changing conditions, with new sites and crews keeping things fresh.
  • Testing & Documentation: Perform field and lab tests, maintain equipment, and ensure accurate, complete reporting.
  • Inspections & Standards: Conduct inspections per IBC codes, document findings, and manage data using Metafield.

Experience shifting weekly work hours based on project needs and weather conditions, including early mornings, late evenings, weekends, possible holidays, and overtime (paid at time and a half).


About You:

  • You have a High School diploma/GED
  • You bring curiosity and the willingness to learn; obtaining certifications is part of your growth
  • You have a strong work ethic and a team mindset
  • You have strong attention to detail and effective communication skills in English, including speaking, reading, and writing
  • You have basic math skills with an understanding of weight, volume, pressure, and units of measure
  • You understand a fluctuating weekly schedule and occasional travel

You Are Willing and Able to:

Perform the physical demands of the position with the use of company-provided Personal Protective Equipment, such as:

  • Working the majority of the time outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Walking over rough, uneven terrain and standing for potentially up to 12 hours a day
  • Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
  • Maneuvering field equipment safely, such as a loaded wheelbarrow, on uneven ground around active construction sites

Grow With Us:

At S&ME, your career growth matters. You'll receive professional training, work on exciting projects, and be part of a company that truly invests in its people. This is more than a job; it's a chance to build a long-term career in the engineering and construction industry. S&ME provides a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family, as well as career development resources. Come grow and thrive with us at S&ME!

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
  • 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) - with rollover options
  • Paid Maternity/Parental Leave
  • Employee Recognition Program
  • Credential Incentive Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Company Vehicle with Fuel Card for Project-Based Work
  • $2,000 Referral Bonuses & More!

Join us at S&ME!


This full-time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk-ins are accepted.

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