1

Systems Engineering Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

This Systems Engineering role is focused on product and mission-system engineering, including requirements, architecture, integration, verification, and lifecycle technical execution. This level is a ...

Evaluates, selects, and applies standard Systems Engineering methods, techniques, procedures, and criteria, using independent judgment in making adaptations and modifications. * Develop system models ...

Develop system models using Model-Based Systems Engineering methods and tools (e.g., IBM ® Rationale DOORS ® , or Innoslate by Spec Innovations)​. * Defines facility/system functions ...

This Systems Engineering role is focused on product and mission-system engineering, including requirements, architecture, integration, verification, and lifecycle technical execution. This level is a ...

Senior Specialist, Systems Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

This Systems Engineering role is focused on product and mission-system engineering, including requirements, architecture, integration, verification, and lifecycle technical execution. This level is a ...

Showing results 21-40

Systems Engineering information

See Tennessee salary details

$54.9K

$128.9K

$177.9K

How much do systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems engineering in Tennessee is $128,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,500.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is systems engineering?

Systems engineering is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on designing, integrating, and managing complex systems throughout their life cycles. It involves coordinating various engineering disciplines and specialties to ensure that all parts of a project work together efficiently to meet customer needs. Systems engineers use principles from engineering, management, and mathematics to address both the technical and organizational aspects of a project, from initial concept through development, deployment, and maintenance.

How does a systems engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

Systems Engineers play a pivotal role in bridging various departments such as software, hardware, and project management throughout the project lifecycle. They facilitate communication by translating technical requirements between teams, ensuring that all components integrate seamlessly. Regular meetings, documentation reviews, and design sessions are common, and Systems Engineers often serve as mediators to resolve technical conflicts or dependencies. This collaborative environment helps deliver robust and scalable solutions that meet both business and technical goals.

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

To thrive as a Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in systems architecture, integration, and problem-solving, often supported by a degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB, SysML, and requirements management software, as well as certifications such as INCOSE CSEP, are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills to excel in multidisciplinary environments. These competencies ensure the efficient design, implementation, and maintenance of complex systems that meet organizational goals.

What is the difference between Systems Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectSystems EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Systems Engineering, Electrical, or related fields; often certifications like INCOSEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; often PE licensure
Work EnvironmentProject teams, systems integration, interdisciplinary collaborationDesign labs, manufacturing, product development
Industry UsageTechnology, aerospace, defense, ITAutomotive, manufacturing, robotics
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

Systems Engineering focuses on designing and managing complex systems across various disciplines, emphasizing integration and lifecycle management. Mechanical Engineering centers on designing and manufacturing mechanical devices and systems. While both roles require engineering degrees, their focus areas, work environments, and industry applications differ significantly.

Is a systems engineer a high paying job?

Systems engineering is generally considered a well-paying profession, with salaries often above the national average for engineering roles. Factors such as experience, certifications, and industry can influence earnings, and the role typically requires strong technical skills and knowledge of systems design and integration.

What is the job of a systems engineer?

A systems engineer designs, develops, and manages complex systems by integrating hardware, software, and processes to ensure they function efficiently and reliably. They analyze requirements, troubleshoot issues, and often use tools like modeling and simulation to optimize system performance. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of engineering principles are essential for this role.

What jobs can you get as a systems engineer?

Systems engineers can work in roles such as systems analyst, network engineer, cybersecurity engineer, or systems architect. They often design, develop, and manage complex systems, requiring skills in systems integration, troubleshooting, and familiarity with tools like CAD or simulation software. Certifications like INCOSE or CompTIA can enhance job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Systems Engineering jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Systems Engineering jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Systems Engineering jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Systems Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Systems Engineering job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $128,945 per year, or $62 per hour.

Lead, Systems Engineer

L3HHCM20

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Execute engineering work products from requirements through verification and technical documentation.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate hardware, software, and operational constraints into practical solutions.

  • Perform technical planning, requirements decomposition, interface definition, and verification strategy for mission systems.


Job description

Job Title: Lead, Systems Engineer

Job Number: 42636

Job Location: Nashville, TN

Schedule:  9/80-Every other Friday off

Job Description:

ForceX is seeking a Systems Engineer to deliver mission-focused technical solutions from concept through deployment and sustainment. The role partners across disciplines to translate requirements into executable designs that meet performance, cost, and schedule objectives. This Systems Engineering role is focused on product and mission-system engineering, including requirements, architecture, integration, verification, and lifecycle technical execution. This level is a senior professional role with strong job-area knowledge and broad project management awareness.

 

Essential Functions:

  • Execute engineering work products from requirements through verification and technical documentation.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate hardware, software, and operational constraints into practical solutions.
  • Conduct technical analysis, risk identification, and trade studies to support design decisions.
  • Present technical status, issues, and recommendations in formal and informal reviews.
  • Contribute to proposal, planning, and execution activities aligned to program milestones.
  • Support compliance with customer, regulatory, and security requirements.
  • Travel up to 25% to support integration, test, customer engagement, and program execution.
  • Support work performed in a classified and or controlled environment.
  • Perform technical planning, requirements decomposition, interface definition, and verification strategy for mission systems.
  • Execute system integration, validation, and technical baselines across concept, design, fabrication, test, installation, operation, maintenance, and disposal.
  • Lead or support design reviews, peer reviews, and technical interchanges.
  • Produce and maintain system engineering artifacts including requirements traceability, risk registers, and verification evidence.
  • Ensure system designs align with security and government compliance requirements.

 

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree and minimum 8 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 6 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 12 years of prior related experience. Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM discipline is required.  Engineering degree is preferrable, but Physics, Mathematics, and Computer Science degrees are acceptable alternatives.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
  • 8 years of experience applying systems engineering methods across full lifecycle activities.
  • 8 years of experience with requirements management, risk management, and system integration and verification practices.

 

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Ability to collaborate across software, hardware, mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, and program teams.
  • Experience baseline: Bachelor degree with 6+ years relevant experience, or graduate degree with 4+ years.
  • Role scope expectation: Manages complex projects or processes with general oversight and delivers moderate-to-substantial process and system improvements.
  • Collaboration expectation: Works within and outside the function to gain cooperation on operational practices and execution decisions.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in cross-functional engineering teams.
  • Model-based systems engineering (MBSE) familiarity.
  • Experience with multi-domain mission systems and secure architectures.
  • Experience supporting government or defense technical reviews.
  • Experience balancing technical, schedule, and cost constraints across system-level decisions.

 

#LI-EB1