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Grid Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Lead EHV Engineer 2 - Grid

Chattanooga, TN · Hybrid

$93K - $122K/yr

Description Our Grid business unit is seeking an experienced Lead EHV Substation Engineer. Responsibilities: * This position offers you the opportunity to work in a project team environment with ...

Description Our Grid business unit is seeking an experienced Lead EHV Substation Engineer. Responsibilities: * This position offers you the opportunity to work in a project team environment with ...

Lead EHV Engineer 2 - Grid

Chattanooga, TN · Hybrid

$93K - $122K/yr

Our Grid business unit is seeking an experienced Lead EHV Substation Engineer. Responsibilities: * This position offers you the opportunity to work in a project team environment with other engineers ...

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Grid Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$35.4K

$92.4K

$124.8K

How much do grid engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for grid engineer in Tennessee is $92,352.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,200.00 and $105,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Grid Engineer?

A Grid Engineer is a professional who designs, operates, and maintains electrical grid systems that deliver electricity from power plants to consumers. They ensure the grid runs efficiently, safely, and reliably by overseeing infrastructure such as substations, transmission lines, and distribution networks. Grid Engineers play a crucial role in integrating renewable energy sources, managing grid stability, and addressing outages or emergencies. Their work often involves using advanced technology and data analysis to optimize grid performance.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These roles typically require advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership responsibilities within high-demand industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Grid Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Grid Engineer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, power systems, and grid operations, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with grid modeling software (such as PSS/E or PowerWorld), SCADA systems, and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication skills help Grid Engineers manage complex projects and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These competencies are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation and modernization of electrical grids.

What do grid engineers do?

Grid engineers design, maintain, and optimize electrical power transmission and distribution systems to ensure reliable energy delivery. They analyze system performance, troubleshoot issues, and may use tools like SCADA and GIS software, often requiring technical certifications and knowledge of safety standards.

What is the difference between Grid Engineer vs Substation Engineer?

AspectGrid EngineerSubstation Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentPower grid infrastructure, field and officeSubstation facilities, field and office
Industry UsagePower transmission and distribution companiesUtility companies, power plants
Primary FocusDesign, maintenance, and optimization of power gridsDesign, construction, and maintenance of substations

While both roles involve electrical engineering within the power industry, Grid Engineers focus on the overall power transmission network, ensuring efficient and reliable grid operation. Substation Engineers specialize in the design and maintenance of substations, which are critical nodes within the grid. Both roles require similar credentials and often work together to ensure a stable power supply.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Executive-level engineering roles or those with significant managerial responsibilities may also reach or exceed this salary level.

How does a Grid Engineer typically collaborate with other departments to ensure reliable power distribution?

Grid Engineers work closely with operations, maintenance, and planning teams to monitor grid performance and quickly address any faults or outages. They often coordinate with IT specialists to implement and maintain grid automation systems, and may also interact with regulatory and compliance departments to ensure all standards are met. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as Grid Engineers must translate technical data into actionable steps for various stakeholders, ensuring safe and efficient power delivery.

How much do grid engineers make?

Grid engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in power systems or automation can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.
What are the most commonly searched types of Grid Engineer jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Grid Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Grid Engineer jobs in Tennessee? For Grid Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Research Associate - Grid Modeling

Research Associate - Grid Modeling

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16570
Overview:
The Grid Transients & Advanced Modeling Group in the Electrification and Energy Infrastructure Division (EEID) within the Energy Science and Technology Directorate (ESTD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a Research Associate to perform R&D in the one or more of the following areas: development of EMT simulation software, bulk power systems electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulations, high-fidelity dynamic and transient power electronics resources modeling, explore different intelligence algorithms to enhance ease of usage of simulations, and different applications of EMT simulations. Selection will be based on qualifications, relevant experience, skills, and education. You should be highly self-motivated and independent in conducting research under general guidance and are expected to prepare manuscripts for scientific publication and present the work to sponsors and at conferences.
The group supports the energy reliability and prosperity mission of the Energy Department (DOE) through transformative science and technology solutions, including research supporting the Office of Electricity (OE), Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security and Emergency Response (CESER), and Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation (CMEI) on the integration of new technologies, identifying and validating new ways of using existing and emerging grid assets to ensure grid reliability and affordability of energy supplies. The group focuses on advanced grid modeling using advanced computing resources (e.g., quantum computing), EMT simulations, and power electronics control.
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Develop electromagnetic transient models for bulk power systems, synchronous generators, large loads, etc.
  • Develop simulation algorithms that enable large-scale simulations.
  • Integrate (or co-simulate) grid component/device models into open-source software tools for integrated system dynamic and transient simulations.
  • Develop different applications and use cases for EMT simulations.
  • Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:
  • A Ph.D. in electrical engineering, or related field.
  • Minimum of two years' experience post-Ph.D.
  • Expertise in power systems and power electronics.
  • Experience in C/C++, Matlab, and Python programming.
  • Experience in power systems software like PSCAD, PSS/e.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with software development.
  • Experience with use of DSPs, FPGAs, advanced computing (e.g., GPUs, QPUs).
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
  • Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever-changing needs.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements:
For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.
To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
For foreign national candidates:
If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.
About ORNL:
As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.
ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.
Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.
This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.
We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.
If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.
ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.

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