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Entry Level Wastewater Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

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Entry Level Wastewater Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$36.8K

$78.4K

$129.3K

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level wastewater engineer in Tennessee is $78,401.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $93,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level wastewater engineer do?

An entry level wastewater engineer assists in designing, analyzing, and maintaining wastewater treatment systems and infrastructure. Their work often involves helping senior engineers with the planning and implementation of processes that remove contaminants from water, preparing technical reports, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. They may also collect and analyze water or soil samples, conduct site inspections, and use computer-aided design (CAD) software to develop project plans. This role provides foundational experience in environmental and civil engineering while supporting the protection of public health and the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level wastewater engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Wastewater Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, typically supported by a bachelor's degree and an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification. Familiarity with AutoCAD, GIS software, hydraulic modeling tools, and regulatory compliance systems is highly valuable. Attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this role. These abilities ensure accurate project design, regulatory adherence, and successful collaboration in delivering safe and efficient wastewater solutions.

What are some typical projects and responsibilities for an entry level wastewater engineer during their first year on the job?

As an entry level wastewater engineer, you can expect to assist with a variety of tasks such as preparing engineering reports, conducting site visits, collecting and analyzing water samples, and supporting the design of treatment systems. You’ll often work closely with senior engineers to learn about regulatory requirements, permitting processes, and best practices in system maintenance. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including environmental scientists, CAD technicians, and project managers—is common, providing valuable exposure to different aspects of project delivery. Over time, you’ll gradually take on more responsibility and may have opportunities to contribute to client meetings or help manage small projects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Wastewater Engineer vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectEntry Level Wastewater EngineerWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsBachelor's in Environmental or Civil Engineering, Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent, relevant state certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, and analysis in engineering offices or field sitesOperate and monitor water treatment equipment at treatment plants
Industry UsageEngineering firms, municipal wastewater departmentsMunicipal water treatment facilities, private water companies

While both roles focus on water quality, an Entry Level Wastewater Engineer primarily handles design and planning tasks, requiring an engineering degree and certification. In contrast, a Water Treatment Plant Operator manages daily operations at treatment facilities, often with a high school diploma and specialized licenses. Both roles are essential in water management but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Wastewater Engineer jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Wastewater Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Wastewater Engineer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Wastewater Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Wastewater Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Wastewater Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,401 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Project Engineer, Water/Wastewater (Level 1 or Level 2)

Jackson, TN

Jackson Energy Authority
Utilities • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Jackson Energy Authorityexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Position Summary:                 
Performs engineering required for plant additions and revisions. Conducts economic and system planning studies. Supervises, trains, and directs assigned employees in the design, planning, and development of transmissions, distribution, and associated facilities. 
Criteria:
Education/Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from an accredited university. Entry level role with recent graduates accepted. Experience in water/wastewater distribution/collection systems and operations preferred. (Depending on the candidate's level of experience and professional licenses, may be filled as a Level 1 or Level 2 Project Engineer)
Skills/Abilities:
Must possess excellent organizational and communication skills. Must be proficient with computer aided drafting software (such as AutoCAD or MicroStation). Must be proficient with the use of Microsoft Office products. Knowledge of ESRI GIS software preferred. The ability to effectively write technical reports and present them before a group.  
Certifications/Licenses:
Must have a degree from an engineering curriculum accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) as approved by the Tennessee State Board of Architectural and Engineering Examiners. Passage of the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering Examination within 1-year of employment.
Physical Demands:
The ability to safely operate a standard equipped JEA motor vehicle. The ability to use a computer keyboard effectively. The ability to enter/exit 22" diameter accessways and work in confined spaces. The ability to orally communicate by phone and person to person. The ability to see and read printed material. The ability to walk several miles over rough terrain.
Work Environment:
Indoor and outdoor conditions. 
Driving:
Must have and maintain a valid Class “D” license.
Telephone:
Must have a telephone and furnish the number to his/her supervisor.
Essential Functions:
 
  • Designs system modifications, replacements, and expansions for JEA’s water and wastewater infrastructure.
  • Trains co-op students on construction and design practices.
  • Generates bid documents, contracts, and specifications for projects and assists with the procurement of bids for projects and materials.
  • Generates takeoff quantities and cost estimates for internal projects.
  • Reviews development plans, record plats, and construction plans to ensure all proposed development is in compliance with JEA’s master plans, criteria, accepted industry standards and practices, and applicable regulations.
  • Studies engineering literature, regulations, codes, and other sources to keep abreast of engineering progress.
  • Performs field surveying using GPS equipment and software.
  • Maintains knowledge of applicable codes.
  • Works closely with Operations to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of the system.
  • Develops and analyzes system models.
  • Assists in generating economic and system planning studies.
  • Generates estimates and provides quotes to customers, contractors, and developers.
  • Coordinates projects with others, both inside and outside of JEA.
  • Conducts bid opening process for construction contract and other departmental materials.
  • Provides system information, advice and technical assistance to consultants, developers, contractors, customers, other agencies, and departments.
  • Secures permits and easements.
  • Gathers information, prepares drawings and descriptions for easement acquisitions and conducts necessary landowner negotiations.
  • Generates computer model scenarios to perform hydraulic and capacity analysis of the water distribution and wastewater collection systems.
  • Assists System Engineer in preparation of annual budget.
  • Assumes responsibility for safe work practices of employees within area of responsibility.
  • Directs staff in the areas of drafting, records, surveying and field data.
  • Trains assigned engineering staff in the use of AutoCAD and ESRI GIS software, and in accepted industry standards and practices.
  • Trains co-op students on construction and design practices.
  • Supervises system utilities during weekly standby duty on a rotational basis.
  • Assumes additional responsibilities as requested.

 

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