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Operating Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Overview The Stationary Engineer is responsible for maintaining, operating, monitoring, and repairing all utilities and related central plant equipment and respond to maintenance requests for ...

Overview The Stationary Engineer is responsible for maintaining, operating, monitoring, and repairing all utilities and related central plant equipment and respond to maintenance requests for ...

Operator : An operating engineer's job entails operating and maintaining heavy equipment, such as bulldozers, cranes, and excavators, to perform various construction, excavation, and earthmoving ...

Operator : An operating engineer's job entails operating and maintaining heavy equipment, such as bulldozers, cranes, and excavators, to perform various construction, excavation, and earthmoving ...

Accredited Technical School, Military, or College Certification in HVAC and/or Operating Engineering Technologies and/or equivalent job related training and experience required * Universal HVAC (CFC ...

Chief Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Accredited Technical School, Military, or College Certification in HVAC and/or Operating Engineering Technologies and/or equivalent job related training and experience required * Universal HVAC (CFC ...

Infrastructure Engineer

Nashville, TN

$103K - $136K/yr

Their responsibilities include upgrading and improving operating environments, creating repair strategies, and providing technical support and training for users. Successful infrastructural engineers ...

Process Engineer

Morristown, TN · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

This is a hands-on engineering role where you'll work directly with operators, supervisors, and maintenance to solve real production problems, not sit behind a desk designing processes that someone ...

Process Engineer

Morristown, TN

$80K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

This is a hands-on engineering role where you'll work directly with operators, supervisors, and maintenance to solve real production problems, not sit behind a desk designing processes that someone ...

Process Engineer

Morristown, TN · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

This is a hands-on engineering role where you'll work directly with operators, supervisors, and maintenance to solve real production problems, not sit behind a desk designing processes that someone ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$67K - $86K/yr

Operating Instructions / FMEA / Control Plan: design and complete all FMEA and Control Plan ... Engineering and Process Ownership Practices * Engages in daily process improvement with front line ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$67K - $86K/yr

Operating Instructions / FMEA / Control Plan: design and complete all FMEA and Control Plan ... Engineering and Process Ownership Practices * Engages in daily process improvement with front line ...

Custom Kubernetes operator development * Design, implement, maintain, modify, and test custom ... Technical Leadership for Software Engineering * Provide software development, guidance, code ...

Structural Engineer

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Expertise with civil/structural analysis software including operating and interpreting results.Knowledge of the discipline specific methods, practices and techniques required to engineer, design and ...

New

Tritium Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

  • Retirement

Develop process engineering deliverables including Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), engineering specifications, operating philosophies, equipment sizing ...

New

Showing results 41-60

Operating Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$32.7K

$77.2K

$122.5K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Tennessee is $77,173.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,100.00 and $85,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operating engineer?

Operating Engineers are skilled professionals who operate and maintain heavy machinery and equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, commonly used on construction sites and in other industrial settings. They are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of this equipment, performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and sometimes assisting with repairs. Operating Engineers play a critical role in the successful completion of construction and infrastructure projects by helping move materials, clear land, and perform tasks that require mechanical power.

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

To thrive as an Operating Engineer, you need expertise in operating, maintaining, and repairing complex machinery, often backed by a high school diploma, technical training, and relevant licenses or certifications. Familiarity with control systems, heavy equipment, and safety protocols—such as OSHA standards—is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of equipment, minimize downtime, and help maintain a secure work environment.

What are some common challenges operating engineers face when managing multiple pieces of equipment on a job site?

Operating Engineers often juggle the operation and maintenance of several types of heavy machinery, such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators, which requires strong multitasking and organizational skills. A common challenge is coordinating equipment use efficiently to avoid downtime and bottlenecks, particularly on busy construction sites with tight schedules. Additionally, they must remain vigilant about safety protocols and equipment inspections to prevent accidents or mechanical failures. Effective communication with site supervisors and other team members is crucial to ensure a smooth workflow and address any issues promptly.

What is the difference between Operating Engineer vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectOperating EngineerMaintenance Technician
CredentialsOSHA certifications, state licenses, technical trainingOSHA certifications, technical/vocational training
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, power plants, large facilitiesBuildings, manufacturing plants, facilities maintenance
Employer & IndustryConstruction, utilities, manufacturingFacilities management, manufacturing, commercial buildings

Operating Engineers and Maintenance Technicians often share certifications and work in industrial or large facility environments. Operating Engineers focus on operating and maintaining heavy machinery and equipment, while Maintenance Technicians handle repairs and preventive maintenance of building systems. Both roles are essential for facility operations, but their specific duties and focus areas differ.

How much do operating engineers make in the US?

Operating engineers in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and specialization. Skilled operators with certifications and experience can earn higher salaries, especially in construction, power plants, or heavy industrial environments.

Is an operating engineer hard to get into?

Becoming an operating engineer typically requires completing technical training, obtaining relevant certifications, and gaining experience with heavy machinery. Entry can be competitive, especially for union positions, but proper training and licensing improve job prospects.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in Tennessee?

For Operating Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Operating Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in TN?

For Operating Engineer jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,173 per year, or $37.1 per hour.

Stationary Engineer

ENFRA LLC

Columbia, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

About Us
At ENFRA, we blend a rich history with a forward-looking vision. With over 100 years of experience, we are a pillar of stability in the energy infrastructure industry and a leader in innovative energy solutions. Our commitment to leveraging emerging technologies ensures that we remain at the forefront of the Energy-as-a-Service sector.
We believe in growth-not just for our business, but for our people. Our team members have the opportunity to advance their careers in a supportive environment that values continuous learning and development. We embrace innovation and encourage creative problem solving to tackle the energy infrastructure and energy challenges of tomorrow.
Inclusion is at the heart of our culture. We strive to create a workplace where every voice is heard and valued, fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives drive our success.
Join us to be part of a legacy of excellence and a future of groundbreaking advancements. At ENFRA, stability, innovation, and growth are more than just values-they are the pillars of our continued success.
Overview
The Stationary Engineer is responsible for maintaining, operating, monitoring, and repairing all utilities and related central plant equipment and respond to maintenance requests for assistance to hospital, clinic and supporting facilities. Also responsible for maintaining the central plant in good, clean working condition maintains preventative maintenance (P.M.), and scheduling and completing corrective maintenance to all equipment in a timely and professional manner actively documenting all activities and maintenance.
Responsibilities
  • Properly answers the phone and resolves requests by using the name and identifying department. Completes preventive maintenance and work requests promptly by using the proper work order form.
  • Monitors and operates power plant equipment by visually inspecting and adjusting equipment to achieve maximum efficiency.
  • Monitors, operates and troubleshoots engineering equipment and systems by following manufacturers' recommended maintenance and operating parameters.
  • Operates, monitors and maintains Energy Management System by adjusting heating/cooling schedules as dictated by building loads.
  • Performs building rounds and equipment inspections by properly entering round sheet data and reporting problems to supervisor.

Qualifications
Required Education, Experience, and Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Experience with water treatment for heating and cooling systems in order to efficiently protect the water and steam piping and integrity.
  • Experience using HVAC/Temperature controls, Energy Management Systems, Computer Operations in order to maintain proper building temperature comfort levels.
  • OSHA Basic, NFPA70E.
  • Basic math skills.
  • Ability to maintain a positive and professional demeanor under stressful conditions.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Detail-oriented and willing to tackle various ongoing projects in a fast-paced environment.
  • Versed in the industry and the Company's competitors.
  • Ability to multitask and perform duties outside of the scope of work when necessary.
Preferred Education, Experience, and Qualifications
  • Associates degree in Operating Engineering
Travel Requirements
  • 0-5% of time will be spent traveling to job site(s)/office location.
Physical/Work Environment Requirements
  • Ascending and descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, and/or poles.
  • Climbing stairs.
  • Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
  • Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
  • Operating machinery and/or power tools.
  • Outdoor elements such as precipitation, heat, cold, and/or wind.
  • Noisy environment.
  • Light to heavy work that includes adjusting and/or moving objects from 20-100 pounds.

ENFRA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Women, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities, and participates in the e-Verify program. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law.