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Land Development Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Land Development Division Lead

Nashville, TN · On-site

$81K - $112K/yr

Registration as a licensed Professional Engineer * Experience in Leadership, Business Development, Client Management, Project Management & Production * 10+ years of professional experience in Land ...

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Showing results 1-20

Land Development Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$39K

$89.5K

$129.8K

How much do land development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for land development engineer in Tennessee is $89,471.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,700.00 and $102,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Land Development Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering, site design, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency with AutoCAD, Civil 3D, stormwater modeling software, and GIS systems is commonly required. Strong project management, problem-solving, and communication skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and manage complex projects efficiently. These abilities are essential to ensure safe, sustainable, and cost-effective land development projects that meet client and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Land Development Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectLand Development EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering or related field; PE license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering; PE license typically required
Work EnvironmentDesigning and planning land development projects, site layout, grading, drainageDesigning infrastructure, transportation, and public works projects
Industry UsagePrimarily in land development, real estate, and construction sectorsBroader, including infrastructure, transportation, and public sector projects

Land Development Engineers focus on preparing land for construction, including grading, drainage, and site planning. Civil Engineers have a wider scope, designing various infrastructure projects. While both roles require similar credentials and often work in related environments, their project focus differs, with Land Development Engineers specializing in land-specific projects.

What are some common challenges Land Development Engineers face during project execution, and how can they be addressed?

Land Development Engineers frequently encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, navigating complex permitting processes, and adapting to unforeseen site conditions. Effective communication and collaboration with planners, surveyors, contractors, and local authorities are essential to keep projects on track. Proactively addressing regulatory requirements and maintaining flexibility in design can help mitigate delays. Staying organized and up-to-date with local codes ensures smoother project progression and successful outcomes.

What is a Land Development Engineer?

A Land Development Engineer is a professional who designs, plans, and oversees the development of land for residential, commercial, or industrial use. They are responsible for ensuring that projects comply with zoning laws, environmental regulations, and infrastructure requirements. Their work includes tasks such as site analysis, grading, drainage design, utility planning, and coordination with local municipalities. Land Development Engineers play a crucial role in transforming raw land into usable, safe, and sustainable properties.
Infographic showing various Land Development Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,471 per year, or $43 per hour.
Engineer-In-Training III, Land Development

Engineer-In-Training III, Land Development

Pape-Dawson Engineers

Franklin, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Description:
In 2024, RaganSmith joined the Pape-Dawson family of companies. RaganSmith, was founded in 1933 as a land surveying company. More than nine decades later, we have grown into an interdisciplinary consulting firm of experienced civil engineers, landscape architects, transportation experts, savvy surveyors, and brilliant land planners serving the private and public sectors.
We are seeking a full-time Engineer-in-Training III (EIT III) based in our Franklin, TN office. This position will collaborate in-house with licensed civil engineers, landscape architects, and land surveyors to assist our clients in developing commercial and residential projects in the public and private sectors. This position is involved in the practical application of engineering principles to design infrastructure for site or commercial and residential land development projects.
Responsibilities:
  • Assist in the development of project plans, specifications, and cost estimates for land development projects.
  • Analyze and compare feasible design alternatives based on typical sections, grading, drainage, alignments, right-of-way requirements, and other site constraints.
  • Identify and evaluate major design features and alternatives that meet the project's purpose and regulatory requirements.
  • Use engineering design software such as AutoCAD Civil 3D to create construction documents and design layouts.
  • Prepare technical reports, engineering studies, and documentation in accordance with company standards.
  • Direct and review the work of engineering technicians and junior staff to ensure accuracy and quality.
  • Collaborate with project managers, clients, and agencies to support permitting, compliance, and project coordination.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field from an ABET-accredited program

  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT/EI) certification or ability to achieve by reciprocity

  • Proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D and MS Office Suite

  • Familiarity with land development engineering practices and permitting processes

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

  • Effective communication skills, both written and verbal

  • Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines

Benefits
  • Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Long-term and short-term disability coverage
  • Generous PTO and paid holidays
  • 401(k) safe harbor contribution plus 10% employer matching
  • Premium time paid out to eligible salaried employees when over 40 hours are worked in a week
  • Annual salary review and bonus
  • Tuition and gym reimbursements
  • Parental leave
  • Flexible work environment
  • Focus on work-life balance

EEO Statement:
All qualified applicants for Pape-Dawson Engineers will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.