ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Power Plant Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Plant Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

Your contributions will power the manufacturing of iconic brands like Smithfield, Eckrich, Nathan ... As the leader of the maintenance and engineering department in a fast-paced plant, you'll be at the ...

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Plant Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Your contributions will power the manufacturing of iconic brands like Smithfield, Eckrich, Nathan ... As the leader of the maintenance and engineering department in a fast-paced plant, you'll be at the ...

Smithfield Foods

Plant Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

Your contributions will power the manufacturing of iconic brands like Smithfield, Eckrich, Nathan ... As the leader of the maintenance and engineering department in a fast-paced plant, you'll be at the ...

Smithfield Foods

Plant Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

Your contributions will power the manufacturing of iconic brands like Smithfield, Eckrich, Nathan ... As the leader of the maintenance and engineering department in a fast-paced plant, you'll be at the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPower Plant Engineer JobsPower Plant Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

Power Plant Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$20

$32

$54

How much do power plant engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant engineer in Tennessee is $32.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.96 and $32.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a power plant engineer do?

A power plant engineer maintains day-to-day operations in a power plant. Their main duties involve conducting operational tests, providing preventative maintenance on machines, inspecting thermal systems, and working closely with other plant personnel. This job requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Many engineers earn a more specialized degree in chemical, electrical, or nuclear engineering depending upon their industry. Additional qualifications for a power plant engineer include experience working as part of a team, communication skills, and strong analytical abilities.

What does a power plant engineer do?

A Power Plant Engineer is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and optimization of power generation facilities. Their duties include overseeing equipment such as turbines, boilers, and generators to ensure efficient and safe production of electricity. They also perform regular inspections, troubleshoot issues, and implement safety protocols. In addition, Power Plant Engineers may work on upgrading systems to improve energy efficiency and comply with environmental regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a power plant engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Power Plant Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, strong problem-solving abilities, and a relevant engineering degree or certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, plant management software, and safety compliance standards is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and attention to detail help you collaborate effectively and ensure plant operations run smoothly. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient, and reliable power generation.

What are some common challenges power plant engineers face in their daily work, and how can they prepare for them?

Power Plant Engineers frequently encounter challenges such as ensuring equipment reliability, troubleshooting unexpected failures, and maintaining compliance with safety and environmental regulations. They often need to respond quickly to operational issues, coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, and adapt to technological upgrades. To prepare, engineers benefit from staying updated on industry best practices, participating in ongoing training, and developing strong problem-solving and communication skills. Proactively engaging in preventive maintenance and collaborating closely with operations and maintenance teams can also help mitigate many common issues.

What is the difference between Power Plant Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPower Plant EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Power Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; PE license optional but beneficial
Work EnvironmentPower plants, energy facilities, industrial sitesManufacturing, design firms, industrial plants, energy sectors
Industry UsageSpecific to energy generation and power productionBroad engineering applications across industries
Job FocusDesign, operation, and maintenance of power generation systemsDesign, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems

Power Plant Engineers specialize in energy generation systems within power plants, focusing on operation and maintenance. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working across various industries on mechanical systems. While both roles require similar credentials, their work environments and job focuses differ significantly.

Is there a demand for power plant engineers?

Power plant engineers are in demand due to the ongoing need for energy production and infrastructure maintenance. They are often required to have technical skills, knowledge of power systems, and relevant certifications, with employment opportunities available in utility companies, manufacturing, and renewable energy sectors.

What is the average salary for a power plant engineer in the US?

The average salary for a power plant engineer in the US is approximately $85,000 to $105,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Engineers in this field often work with control systems, turbines, and power generation equipment, and may require a bachelor's degree in engineering and relevant licensure.
More about Power Plant Engineer jobs

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

The most popular types of Power Plant Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Power Plant Engineer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Power Plant Engineer job openings:

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

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

Power Plant Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,730 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Plant Engineer

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.
Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!
THE VALUE YOU'LL BRING:
Join our dynamic Engineering team and become a key player in driving innovation and efficiency! You'll dive into data analysis and craft implementation plans that optimize production processes, ensuring we maximize resources and minimize waste-directly impacting our operating costs. Your contributions will power the manufacturing of iconic brands like Smithfield, Eckrich, Nathan's Famous, and more, helping us meet the demands of customers and consumers alike.
As the leader of the maintenance and engineering department in a fast-paced plant, you'll be at the forefront of maintaining top-tier building and equipment performance. By reducing mechanical downtime and ensuring seamless product flow, you'll keep our production lines running at peak efficiency. You'll lead the charge in developing and implementing cutting-edge maintenance systems, including Preventative and Predictive Maintenance, TPM, and more, driving our plant to new heights as part of a High Performing Manufacturing Organization. Secondly as the leader of engineering activities you will ensure our facilities remain a state-of-the-art food manufacturing process, developing and executing highly innovative technology projects. In this role, you won't just manage maintenance-you'll elevate it to new levels of efficiency and innovation!
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.
  • Engineering Project Development: Take ownership of capital projects from concept to completion! You'll manage and schedule all project elements to ensure minimal disruption to plant operations, delivering projects on time, on budget, and without compromising safety, food safety, or environmental standards. Your leadership will bring exciting new developments to life and enhance plant capabilities.
  • Maintenance Systems: Lead the charge in developing and implementing cutting-edge maintenance systems that keep our plant operating at peak performance. You'll be the driving force behind Preventive and Predictive Maintenance, TPM, and other high-impact strategies, ensuring optimal scheduling that maximizes task completion with minimal downtime. Your efforts will fuel greater plant efficiency, reduce disruptions, and create a more seamless, productive operation.
  • Maintenance Staff and Safety: As a leader, you'll inspire and manage the maintenance team by delegating tasks, enforcing policies, and guiding work assignments. Your ability to organize, plan, and follow through ensures work is completed efficiently and safely. By championing a safety-first culture and enforcing company policies, you'll keep the team aligned with Smithfield's goals while maintaining full compliance with federal and state regulations.
  • Solutions: Become the ultimate problem solver by providing both short-term fixes and long-term solutions to everyday operational challenges. Whether troubleshooting, conducting problem analysis, or addressing equipment failures, you'll ensure the smooth daily operation of the plant with minimal recurring issues. Your proactive approach will keep production lines humming and help us stay ahead of potential obstacles.
  • Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Drive continuous improvement by developing and tracking Key Performance Indicators that measure the success of the maintenance function. From equipment reliability to supplier performance and overall equipment effectiveness, your insights will be crucial for maintaining peak performance across all areas of the plant.
  • Leadership and Flexibility: When key personnel are absent, you'll step in seamlessly, ensuring that all tasks are completed or delegated appropriately. Your leadership ensures that all responsibilities are handled with precision, guaranteeing smooth and uninterrupted plant operations.
  • People Management: Drives a positive employee experience through leadership by way of employee development and coaching.

WHAT WE'RE SEEKING:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering or related field and 8+ years' relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
  • 2+ years of demonstrated experience in team management/development or project leadership is required
  • High level of leadership skills, organizational planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning, and adaptability.
  • Possess advanced technical skills in the mechanical/electrical fields (e.g. PLCs, instrumentation, mechanical engineering, etc.) and is able to lead resource planning efforts in a large manufacturing environment.
  • Thorough knowledge of maintenance systems, work order process, preventive/predictive maintenance, TPM, etc.
  • Ability to use exposure monitoring equipment, interpret and communicate results.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel and Word.
  • Capable of communicating and expressing ideas clearly and concisely, in both written and oral formats.
  • Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong interpersonal, technical and presentation skills required.
  • May be required to work long hours and weekends.

OTHER SKILLS THAT MAKE YOU STAND OUT:
  • Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
  • Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • Office and plant setting. The plant environment will include wet or humid conditions (non-weather related), extreme cold and heat (non-weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals.
  • Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be loud when in the production area.
  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Specific vision includes close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear.

IndSPR-M/E
Relocation Package AvailableYes
EEO Information
Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.
Check out this video to learn more about this role!

Apply