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Power Line Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Senior Field Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$65 - $80/hr

... power line carrier, pilot wire, transfer, transfer trip, fiber optic, CVT's, line tuners, line ... From curbside to rooftop, ABM's comprehensive services include janitorial, engineering, parking ...

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Power Line Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$56.3K

$110.8K

$153.4K

How much do power line engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for power line engineer in Tennessee is $110,850.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,900.00 and $139,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a powerline engineer do?

A powerline engineer designs, installs, maintains, and repairs electrical power transmission and distribution lines. They work outdoors, often at heights, using specialized tools and safety equipment, and typically require knowledge of electrical systems and certifications such as OSHA safety training.

How much does a powerline engineer make?

The average salary for a power line engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Experienced engineers working in high-demand areas or with specialized skills can earn higher wages, and the role often requires knowledge of electrical systems and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Power Line Engineer vs Power Distribution Technician?

AspectPower Line EngineerPower Distribution Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in electrical engineering, certifications in line constructionHigh school diploma or equivalent, technical certifications in electrical systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, and overseeing high-voltage power line projectsInstallation, maintenance, and repair of power distribution systems
Industry UsageUtility companies, engineering firms, construction projectsUtility companies, maintenance contractors

Power Line Engineers focus on designing and managing high-voltage power line projects, requiring engineering degrees and planning skills. Power Distribution Technicians handle the installation and maintenance of electrical distribution systems, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the power industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Power Line Engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive or specialized roles within the energy industry. Senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership positions in large utility companies may approach high six-figure incomes, but reaching $500,000 is rare for standard engineering roles.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Power Line Engineers typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are more common among specialized or executive-level engineers in fields like petroleum, software, or aerospace. Senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles in large companies may reach or exceed this salary level. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and expertise.

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

To thrive as a Power Line Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, knowledge of power distribution systems, and typically a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-specific tools like AutoCAD, GIS software, and relevant safety certifications such as OSHA are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in designing safe and efficient power line systems and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial to ensure the reliability, safety, and regulatory compliance of electrical infrastructure projects.

What does a Power Line Engineer do?

A Power Line Engineer is responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the construction and maintenance of electrical power transmission and distribution lines. They ensure that power lines are safe, reliable, and comply with industry standards and regulations. Their work involves conducting site surveys, preparing technical drawings, selecting materials, and coordinating with utility companies and construction teams. Power Line Engineers also troubleshoot issues and implement upgrades to existing power infrastructure to improve efficiency and reliability.

How does a Power Line Engineer typically collaborate with other professionals on large-scale infrastructure projects?

Power Line Engineers frequently work as part of multidisciplinary teams, collaborating closely with civil engineers, project managers, surveyors, and utility planners. Effective communication is essential, as Power Line Engineers must coordinate design specifications, safety standards, and project timelines with various stakeholders. They also often participate in site visits and planning meetings to ensure that electrical infrastructure integrates seamlessly with other construction elements. This collaborative environment not only supports successful project delivery but also provides valuable professional networking and learning opportunities.
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Power Line Engineer jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Power Line Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Power Line Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $110,850 per year, or $53.3 per hour.
Staff Transmission Engineer - (Southeast Region)

Staff Transmission Engineer - (Southeast Region)

Burns & McDonnell

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 80 rated construction


Job description

Description
At Burns & McDonnell, you're in control of your career potential. And with more than 350 service specialties, you can grow within the company. Our formula is simple: hire the best people, find out what they enjoy and are great at, and help them succeed. You'll lead or support important projects for interesting clients and reap the rewards of employee-ownership - a difference-maker with tangible and intangible benefits. You'll create amazing, for clients and for yourself. If you are passionate about your work and want to keep growing in your career, we want to talk to you!
Our Southeast region is looking for a Staff Overhead Transmission Line Engineer to support our growing Transmission & Distribution practice. The successful candidate will:
  • Perform, lead, and oversee all engineering responsibilities related to overhead transmission line design. This includes PLS-CADD modeling, line routing, structure analysis and loading trees, developing design criteria, sag-tension calculations, wire blowout, swing angle, damper recommendations, structure spotting, clearance reports, wire selection, etc.
  • Prepare specifications for construction, hardware, and materials for high-voltage overhead transmission line (HV OH T-Line); structural design and development; hardware design and selection; and field installation supervision.
  • Prepare construction drawings and cost estimates for high-voltage overhead transmission lines.
  • Additional responsibilities include providing instruction and guidance to less experienced staff members. This position may develop into a leadership role, at which point this individual will be expected to lead teams of engineers as well as be a primary interface between Burns & McDonnell Engineers and our clients. Experience as the technical lead on projects and performing quality reviews is a plus.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or related degree from an ABET-accredited program and 3 years of transmission engineering experience required, consulting preferred.
  • Or Bachelor's Degree in Civil or related Engineering Technology from an ABET-accredited program, successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and 3 years of transmission engineering experience required, consulting preferred.
  • Or Master's Degree in Civil Engineering and 2 years of transmission engineering experience required, consulting preferred.
  • Strong knowledge in standard civil/structural engineering techniques and procedures.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work methodically and analytically in a quantitative problem-solving environment, and demonstrated critical thinking skills.
  • Strong computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite).
  • Experience in 69kV to 500kV line design and working knowledge and/or expertise in Power Line system-based programs (i.e., PLS, PLS-CADD, PLS-POLE, etc.) preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization, and problem-solving skills.
  • Engineers in Training-EIT Certification preferred.

This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Electrical Engineering
Primary Location US-GA-Atlanta
Other Locations US-TN-Chattanooga, US-NC-Charlotte
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 10 % of the Time
Req ID: 262173
Job Hire Type Experienced #LI-MG #T&D

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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