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Entry Level Petroleum Engineering Jobs in Tennessee

All JobsPetroleum Engineering JobsEntry Level Petroleum Engineering JobsEntry Level Petroleum Engineering Jobs in Tennessee

Entry Level Petroleum Engineering information

See Tennessee salary details

$38.1K

$72.6K

$123.4K

How much do entry level petroleum engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level petroleum engineering in Tennessee is $72,632.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,900.00 and $103,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level petroleum engineer do?

An entry level petroleum engineer assists with the design, development, and evaluation of methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the earth's surface. Their responsibilities often include collecting and analyzing geological data, supporting drilling operations, monitoring production rates, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers and gain practical experience while learning industry-specific technologies and processes.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry-level petroleum engineer expect during their first year on the job?

As an entry-level petroleum engineer, you will typically be involved in supporting senior engineers with tasks such as data analysis, preparing reports, and monitoring drilling or production operations. You may assist with reservoir modeling, well testing, and evaluating production techniques. Most new hires rotate through various departments to gain broad exposure to drilling, production, and reservoir engineering, working closely with multidisciplinary teams. This structure helps you build a solid technical foundation, understand field operations, and develop strong collaboration skills early in your career.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Petroleum Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering or a related field, along with a solid grasp of mathematics, geology, and engineering principles. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Petrel, MATLAB, and reservoir simulation tools, as well as internships or EIT (Engineer-in-Training) certification, is highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and solve complex problems. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and innovative extraction of oil and gas resources.

What is the difference between Entry Level Petroleum Engineering vs Entry Level Mechanical Engineering?

AspectEntry Level Petroleum EngineeringEntry Level Mechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering, possibly some internshipsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, internships or co-ops beneficial
Work EnvironmentOil rigs, drilling sites, exploration companiesManufacturing plants, design offices, maintenance facilities
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas companies, energy sectorManufacturing, automotive, aerospace industries
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in petroleum vs mechanical engineering

Entry Level Petroleum Engineering focuses on oil and gas exploration, drilling, and production, often in field environments. In contrast, Entry Level Mechanical Engineering involves designing, analyzing, and maintaining mechanical systems across various industries. Both roles require a bachelor's degree and internships, but they differ in work settings and industry focus.

Are entry level petroleum engineers still in demand?

Entry level petroleum engineers continue to be in demand due to ongoing energy exploration and production activities, especially in regions with active oil and gas operations. The role requires strong technical skills, knowledge of drilling and reservoir management, and often a bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering or related fields. Employment prospects can vary based on market conditions and technological advancements in renewable energy, but the industry generally offers opportunities for new graduates.

How much does an entry level petroleum engineer make?

Entry-level petroleum engineers typically earn a starting salary between $70,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on location and company. Salaries can increase with experience, additional certifications, and advanced skills in reservoir modeling or drilling technology.

What are the most commonly searched types of Petroleum Engineering jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Petroleum Engineering jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Petroleum Engineering jobs in Tennessee?

For Entry Level Petroleum Engineering jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Petroleum Engineering jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Petroleum Engineering jobs in Tennessee are:

Entry Level Petroleum Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Petroleum Engineering job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,632 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Entry Level Mechanic

Phillips Tank and Structure - Steel Valley Fabricators

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

About PTS: Trusted, Responsive, and Nationwide
Phillips Tank & Structure (PTS) is a growing, team-oriented, nationwide tank construction company with headquarters in Braddock, Pennsylvania, just outside of the City of Pittsburgh. We have over 190 employees and branch offices in Texas, California, Kentucky, and Hawaii. We specialize in designing, engineering, repairing, and constructing above-ground metal storage tanks and related structures, including welded tanks, bolted tanks, and geodesic domes. We have active projects in various industries, such as petroleum, power, chemical, and renewable fuels.
At PTS, our commitment to our customers shapes everything we do. We have served companies across an array of industries, handling new tanks, repairs, and modifications. Our collective methodology, industry knowledge, and exhaustive range of abilities permit us to meet one-of-a-kind needs of our customers as they react to industry expectations. We believe in good quality and on-time delivery. We provide an excellent working relationship based on integrity and professionalism.
Why Choose PTS?
  • Positive Work Culture: PTS employees experience a healthy blend of creativity, accountability, motivation, and improvement through team-based interactions with peers and other group members.
  • Professional Development: PTS is a growing company with many opportunities for advancement. PTS' systems-based approach to training and development helps employees quickly find the path to success in our company.
  • Intellectual Satisfaction: Being part of a team that executes unique and challenging projects throughout the country and actually builds something is an exciting endeavor.

Our Core Principles
  • Service: The primary expectation for all employees at PTS is to focus on service. We are called to serve our customers as well as our co-workers and suppliers. We endeavor to build a cohesive team of employees who care about the well-being of the group.
  • Planning and Problem Solving: Planning and problem solving should be utilized to achieve productivity. We will strive every day to be organized and efficient in our approach. We will always look for better ways to achieve results rather than propagating inefficient or inaccurate methods.
  • Personal Development: Every employee should assist in the development of co-workers just as each employee should pursue their own personal development. Mentor and teammate relationships lay the groundwork for future growth and rewards.

We are currently looking to hire a full-time Entry Level Mechanic.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
• Perform regular job tasks regarding above-ground storage tank seal and dome
installation, inspection, and repair. Non-welded tank apparatus installation, inspection,
and repair
• Become Confined Space Rescue trained through PTS's in-house training
• Install, inspect, and repair above-ground storage tanks
• Operate safety equipment including, fall protection, atmospheric monitors, and
respiratory protection
• Operate all tools on the job site including power tools, air tools, and testing equipment
• Setup and operate generators and air compressors
• Knowledge of heavy equipment operations including forklifts, skid steers, and aerial lifts
• Understand and follow drawing packages, technical documents, and safe work plans
• Understand and assist in the care and maintenance of all tooling, equipment
• Assist in receiving, inspecting, and inventorying all material.
• Assist in maintaining a clean and orderly job site
• Completing job safety analysis, safety audits, site-specific training, and other safety
training.
• Other duties as assigned
Requirements
  • Have great communication and organization skills.
  • The ability to solve problems and suggest improvements to our systems.
  • Have excellent attendance and show up to work on time every day.
  • The willingness to learn.
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Be able to lift 50 lbs.
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Be eligible to work in the United States.
  • Be willing to authorize background checks.
  • Have no criminal convictions for dishonesty, sexual misconduct, violence, or acts of terrorism.
  • Have a valid driver's license.
  • Be willing to authorize motor vehicle driving record checks.
  • Be willing to submit to pre-hire, random, and post-incident drug and alcohol testing.
  • Ability to weld is a plus.

Benefits:
  • Competitive Pay with annual reviews
  • Health, Dental and Vision insurance
  • 401k with company match
  • Great culture of teamwork, learning and development.
  • You'll be part of a team where YOU matter

If interested, complete the job application from our website at www.phillipstank.com/careers. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

Apply