Materials Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Entry-Level Construction Materials Engineering Technician

Requisition Number: 2026-1430-03

Looking to kickstart your career in construction? Join S&ME as an Entry-Level Construction Materials Engineering Technician in Knoxville, Tennessee! You'll be part of our Construction Services team, helping build projects that matter while learning and growing every step of the way.

Visit the Life tab on our LinkedIn profile to learn more about life at S&ME.

What You Will Do:

As a 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, some Saturdays, and overtime (paid at time and a half).

Who We're Looking For:

We're looking for someone ready to roll up their sleeves and learn. If you enjoy working outdoors, aren't afraid to get your hands dirty, and want a career where every day is different, this could be the perfect fit. A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and reliability matter most.

Qualifications:

• Education: High School diploma/GED
• Certifications: The curiosity and willingness to learn; obtaining certifications is part of your growth
• Key Competencies:
  • A strong work ethic and a team mindset
  • Strong attention to detail and effective communication skills in English, including speaking, reading, and writing
  • Basic math skills with an understanding of weight, volume, pressure, and units of measure
  • The understanding of a fluctuating schedule and frequent travel
  • Have a valid United States drivers license or an International Driving Permit (IDP) for driving in the US, with an acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to operate a company assigned vehicle safely (Truck or SUV)

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

This role involves hands-on work in outdoor environments, and with Company-provided Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), you'll need to be comfortable with:

• Working outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Walking over rough, uneven terrain and standing (potentially up to 12 hours a day)
• Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
• Working outside of normal business hours and traveling (typically out-of-town and/or overnight) as project needs arise

We Are S&ME:

At S&ME, we're committed to your growth, professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering, we've built a strong foundation for long-term careers. Our team of over 1,000 employee-owners across 10+ states collaborates to create a meaningful impact on our clients and communities. When you join S&ME, you become part of a collaborative, honest, and people-focused culture that invests in your success. We offer exciting project opportunities, ongoing training, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job; it's a place to grow, thrive, and build a future.

What We Offer:

Comprehensive Health & Wellness Programs

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options - plus no medical premium increase in 2026
• Wellness Program offering $50 off per month on 2027 premiums
• Pet Insurance for your furry family members

Ownership & Financial Perks

• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan to help you plan ahead
• Term Life & Long-Term Care Coverage - available Spring 2026

Work-Life Balance & Career Development

• Paid Holidays, PTO with rollover options, and Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave
• Mentorship & Career Development Programs, Tuition Reimbursement, and Credential Incentive Program
• Employee Recognition Program, $2,000 Referral Bonuses, and a company vehicle & fuel card for project-based roles

If you're passionate about making an impact and want to work with a firm committed to our employees and providing quality service to our clients, we'd love to hear from you!

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.