Environmental Engineer Jobs in Chattanooga, TN

Chattanooga, Tennessee$74,250 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: March 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

Environmental Engineer Salary in Chattanooga

Entry Level
$49,725
Median
$74,250
Senior Level
$103,500

Environmental Engineer salaries in Chattanooga are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Chattanooga is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Environmental RegulationsWater TreatmentRemediationSustainabilityData Analysis

Environmental Engineer Job Market in Chattanooga

Chattanooga, TN is a specialized market with unique career opportunities for Environmental Engineer professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Chattanooga offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Technology leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Environmental Engineer roles across various sectors. The market for Environmental Engineer positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Environmental Engineers in Chattanooga

Local governmentRegional employersNational companies

Major employers hiring Environmental Engineers in Chattanooga include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Environmental Engineers in Chattanooga

Living in Chattanooga as a Environmental Engineer means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Housing costs are manageable for Environmental Engineer salaries in the area. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

90
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 4
Market Size

Commuting as a Environmental Engineer in Chattanooga

Chattanooga Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Environmental Engineers in Chattanooga: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Environmental Engineer professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Tennessee

Tennessee has no state income tax. Compared to a state with 5% income tax, a Environmental Engineer earning $74,250 would save approximately $3,713 annually. This makes Chattanooga attractive for high earners, though property taxes and sales tax help fund state services.

Career Outlook for Environmental Engineers

The job outlook for Environmental Engineers in Chattanooga is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Chattanooga offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Environmental Regulations, Water Treatment, Remediation, Sustainability.

Relocating to Chattanooga

Chattanooga's affordable cost of living means your Environmental Engineer salary will stretch further than in major coastal cities. Many professionals relocate here for better quality of life. Tennessee has no state income tax, which can add thousands to your annual take-home pay compared to high-tax states like California or New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Environmental Engineer salary in Chattanooga, TN?

The average Environmental Engineer salary in Chattanooga, TN is $74,250 per year. Entry-level Environmental Engineers typically start around $49,725, while experienced professionals can earn $103,500 or more. The national average for Environmental Engineer roles is $82,500.

How many Environmental Engineer jobs are available in Chattanooga?

Chattanooga has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Environmental Engineer professionals. Major employers hiring Environmental Engineers include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. The Technology and Manufacturing sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Chattanooga a good city for Environmental Engineers?

Chattanooga is an excellent choice for Environmental Engineers. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The affordable cost of living means salaries go further than in more expensive markets. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for engineering professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Environmental Engineers in Chattanooga?

Top skills for Environmental Engineers in Chattanooga include Environmental Regulations, Water Treatment, Remediation, Sustainability, Data Analysis. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Environmental Engineers in Chattanooga?

Chattanooga's cost of living is near the national average (90% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Chattanooga is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Environmental Engineers in Chattanooga?

Chattanooga Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

More Engineering Jobs in Chattanooga

Advertisement

Get Hired Faster

Create an AI-optimized resume tailored for Environmental Engineer jobs in Chattanooga.

Get Started Free