Top 10 Tech Companies to Work for in Knoxville in 2025

Knoxville's tech scene is absolutely crushing it in 2025! The city has transformed into a legitimate tech powerhouse, with tech companies contributing $2.8 billion and supporting over 20,000 jobs.

What makes this place special is the mix of cool startups and big names, all working on everything from AI to healthcare tech. The innovation ecosystem is next level, with the University of Tennessee leading a statewide coalition of 90+ organizations to boost our tech economy.

Right now, we've got this amazing thing happening where new spaces like the 121 Tech Hub in Old City are popping up, creating perfect spots for tech entrepreneurs to collaborate and grow their ideas.

The best part? You don't need to empty your bank account to live here - the affordable cost of living means more cash in your pocket while you're building your tech career.

Tech salaries are competitive, starting around $75,000, and companies are always looking for fresh talent. With startups raising over $100 million in funding and the city hosting 200+ tech events annually, Knoxville's definitely the place to be for anyone wanting to jump into tech.

Want to know which companies are making waves? Keep reading!

Choosing the right tech company to work for requires a detailed evaluation process that looks at multiple factors. Based on LinkedIn's comprehensive ranking methodology, companies are assessed on seven key pillars that indicate career growth potential.

Employee feedback plays a huge role - current and former employees provide real insights about workplace culture and job satisfaction through review platforms.

The company's reputation in the tech scene matters too, especially their track record of innovation and how they handle challenges.

Growth opportunities are super important when rating these companies.

According to Forbes, tech professionals specifically look for companies that offer clear paths for advancement, continuous learning opportunities, and the chance to work on exciting projects.

The evaluation also considers practical factors like compensation packages, work-life balance, and whether the company offers remote work options. Companies that invest in employee development and create an inclusive environment typically rank higher.

The selection process also examines the bigger picture of each company's future potential.

Research shows that companies with strong performance review systems and clear career advancement paths tend to retain talent better.

For anyone looking to break into Knoxville's tech scene, understanding these evaluation criteria is crucial. The process isn't just about finding a job - it's about finding a workplace that offers real opportunities for professional growth and development.

Each company is scored based on these factors to create a ranking that reflects both current workplace quality and future potential.

IdleAir, headquartered in Knoxville, is transforming the way truck drivers rest at travel centers through their innovative electrification service.

Their Advanced Travel Center Electrification system lets drivers power their in-cab systems without running their engines, cutting both fuel costs and emissions.

Their setup is comprehensive - drivers get heating, cooling, internet access, and even satellite TV, making those mandatory rest breaks way more comfortable. Their pricing structure is super flexible, with rates starting at $2.19 per hour and getting cheaper for longer stays, making it a solid alternative to running engines or booking motels.

The company's impact on the environment is seriously impressive.

They've prevented over 625,000 tons of emissions, and their network keeps expanding - they're now in more than 35 locations across 14 states.

The tech behind their service is always evolving, with mobile apps for both Android and iPhone users making it super easy to find and use their services. Plus, they've got this loyalty program called Convoy Points that rewards frequent users with extra perks.

As a tech employer, IdleAir stands out in Knoxville's growing scene.

They're not just creating jobs; they're pushing the boundaries of green tech and IoT integration. Their team gets to work on real solutions that help both the environment and the trucking industry.

The company culture is all about innovation and problem-solving, with opportunities to work on everything from mobile app development to smart infrastructure systems.

For anyone looking to jump into tech with a company that's making a real difference, IdleAir offers a chance to be part of something that's actively changing the trucking industry while helping the planet.

GRIDSMART Technologies has totally changed the game for traffic management in Knoxville, and now they're part of something even bigger. In 2019, Cubic Corporation acquired GRIDSMART for $87 million, taking their innovation to the next level.

Their single-camera solution with a fish-eye lens is literally everywhere - tracking over 43 billion vehicles across 7,000 intersections in 1,200 cities worldwide.

They've donated their STREETSMART technology to key spots in Knoxville, including Kingston Pike and Middlebrook Pike, helping cut down traffic jams for everyone.

Their tech can pick up signals from half a mile away, way better than old-school Bluetooth systems that only reach about 50 feet. The company keeps pushing forward with their mission to improve one billion lives through intelligence, and they're actually doing it.

Best part? They've stayed true to their Knoxville roots, keeping production local and maintaining 50 jobs in the area. Their office culture is everything you'd want in a tech company - great work-life balance, awesome growth opportunities, and real chances to make an impact on how cities work.

They're not just building traffic systems; they're creating the future of smart cities right here in Knoxville. When you're stuck at a red light and it changes just when it needs to, that's GRIDSMART making your day better.

It's pretty amazing to see a local company solving real-world problems with such cutting-edge tech.

As I discovered during my research, Softing AG stands out as a major force in connectivity solutions, with their U.S. headquarters right here in Knoxville.

The company's latest expansion into ARM 32-bit compatibility shows they're seriously pushing the boundaries of edge computing technology. Their work environment promotes small, effective project teams with flat hierarchies, making it perfect for fresh tech graduates who want their ideas heard.

Their recent developments in automotive testing equipment and diagnostic solutions have been impressive, with their edgeConnector technology getting major updates in 2024.

Beyond just creating tech, Softing actively invests in their people through comprehensive training programs and flexible working arrangements.

They've created an environment where entry-level developers can quickly gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge IoT and industrial automation projects. Their commitment to ongoing education means you're always learning something new, whether it's about diagnostic systems, measurement tech, or data communication.

For anyone starting their tech career, Softing offers real growth potential.

The company's focus on industrial automation and diagnostic solutions means you're working with technology that's shaping the future of manufacturing and vehicle electronics.

Some standout opportunities include:

• Project-based learning is crucial for gaining real-world insight into client solutions.
• Hands-on experience with edge computing and IoT develops essential industry skills.
• International collaboration opens up a world of diverse opportunities.

With their expanding presence in automotive diagnostics and industrial automation, Softing represents a solid choice for tech professionals looking to make their mark in Knoxville's growing tech scene.

Their balance of innovation and practical application makes them especially attractive to those starting their careers in tech.

Since 1964, Centriworks has been revolutionizing business technology in East Tennessee. Originally known as Thermocopy, the company rebranded in 2019 to reflect its expanded focus on managed IT services and cybersecurity.

What makes this company stand out is their comprehensive approach to tech solutions - they're not just about document management anymore. Their service portfolio now includes everything from cloud computing to cybersecurity, with a team of 70 professionals serving clients across East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.

The company keeps building on its success, earning the CompTIA Security Trustmark+ Certification and maintaining consistent recognition as an ENX Magazine Elite Dealer since 2016.

Their commitment to innovation shows in their training center, where they have manufacturer-certified trainers keeping their tech team sharp. Plus, they're seriously invested in giving back - they support over 100 local organizations and have earned recognition for their environmental initiatives.

Under the leadership of President Elizabeth Wilson and CFO Mark DeNicola, Centriworks continues to expand their services from their main hub at Sutherland Avenue in Knoxville and their Mountain Empire branch in Johnson City.

Their growth strategy focuses on staying ahead of tech trends while maintaining their reputation for excellent service and support. For anyone looking to break into the tech scene in Knoxville, Centriworks offers solid opportunities in IT services, cybersecurity, and document management.

CTI Molecular Imaging, acquired by Siemens Medical Solutions in a billion-dollar deal, has transformed into a powerhouse in medical imaging technology.

Founded by Dr. Michael E. Phelps, who invented the groundbreaking PET scanner, CTI continues to push innovation in molecular imaging diagnostics.

The company's expertise in positron emission tomography (PET) has revolutionized how doctors detect diseases at the molecular level, way before symptoms show up.

The medical imaging market is experiencing massive growth, projected to increase by $13.49 billion by 2025, and CTI is right at the center of this expansion.

Their advanced PET/CT systems are seriously changing the game in cancer detection, cardiology, and neurology. The tech allows doctors to spot diseases super early and track how well treatments are working, making a real difference in patient care.

As part of Siemens, CTI keeps developing next-level imaging systems that are faster and more precise than ever before. Their Knoxville operations have become a hub for breakthrough medical technology, attracting bright minds who want to make an impact in healthcare.

The combination of cutting-edge research, global reach, and continuous innovation makes CTI a seriously cool place to build a career in medical tech.

Accenture has become a game-changer in Knoxville's tech landscape, operating from its Intelligent Operations Center where over 500 professionals drive innovation across multiple industries.

Located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, this tech powerhouse has transformed Knoxville into a hub for digital advancement. Their services cover everything from cloud computing to AI, with a special focus on machine learning that reduces process times by 25%.

Their presence in Market Square has created this amazing tech ecosystem, bringing together local talent with global opportunities.

They've seriously stepped up their game by launching initiatives like their student and internship programs that give fresh tech graduates real-world experience with cutting-edge technology.

Their impact on the local scene includes:

• Training Programs: Partnerships with local universities create pathways for students to jump into tech careers.
• Community Engagement: Active participation in local events like Knoxville's Pride Parade and KARM's Dragon Boat Race.
• Employment Opportunities: Continuous expansion of their tech workforce with competitive positions in emerging technologies.

Accenture keeps pushing boundaries while maintaining a strong connection to Knoxville's community.

Their work combines human expertise with machine intelligence, creating solutions that help businesses stay ahead of the curve. As someone looking at the tech scene, it's pretty exciting to see how they're shaping Knoxville into a legit tech destination while keeping that local charm intact.

It's amazing to see how Azumo's AI development services are transforming Knoxville's tech landscape in 2025.

After securing $30 million in funding, they've seriously stepped up their game in AI and data engineering. Their team builds everything from intelligent automation systems to cutting-edge computer vision applications, with a focus on practical solutions that actually work.

What's really cool is how they've become a major player in AI solutions development, charging just $0.05 per data pair for their fine-tuning services.

The company's growing fast, with a team of 100-249 professionals and an impressive 4.7-star rating from real clients. They're not just about the tech - they're making waves with data engineering innovations that are totally changing how businesses operate.

Their minimum project cost starts at $50,000, showing they're serious about taking on major challenges. The best part? They're expanding their Knoxville presence and actively hiring local talent, offering competitive rates around $55/hr.

For recent grads and tech professionals looking to level up their careers, Azumo's focus on innovative projects and continuous learning makes it a prime spot to grow.

They're especially strong in enterprise web development, mobile apps, and cutting-edge AI applications, making them a perfect fit for anyone wanting to work with the latest tech.

CGI is seriously making waves in Knoxville's tech scene, and their impact is hard to miss. Their new 37,000-square-foot delivery center in downtown Knoxville isn't just another office space - it's a major commitment to growing our city's tech workforce.

Since setting up shop here in 2021, they've already brought on over 100 professionals across different sectors like healthcare, financial services, and government.

What's really cool is their plan to create 300 high-quality jobs by 2026, backed by a solid $27 million investment. Their partnership with the University of Tennessee is next-level, focusing on emerging technologies and creating real opportunities for students to get hands-on experience.

Working with organizations like the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center and TechStars, CGI is helping build a stronger tech ecosystem right here at home. Their commitment to community involvement goes beyond just business - they're actively working with local groups like the Boys & Girls Clubs and Knox County Schools to support STEM education and create pathways for the next generation of tech professionals.

The company's approach to mixing innovation with community impact is transforming Knoxville into a serious tech hub, making it a pretty exciting time to be in the local tech scene.

East Tennessee Children's Hospital is transforming healthcare through its tech initiatives, especially with the launch of its Discovery Innovation and Simulation Center (DISC) in 2020.

Under the leadership of Ron McKinnon, Chief Digital and Information Officer, the hospital integrates virtual reality training, 3D printing, and advanced simulation technologies into daily operations.

• Career Opportunities are abundant with roles ranging from managing digital infrastructure to supporting innovative training. Tech professionals can find diverse roles here.
• The simulation center includes fully functional NICU and PICU environments for hands-on learning.
• Virtual reality labs create immersive training scenarios, significantly enhancing learning outcomes.
• Looking to join? Career opportunities span across 20 locations in East Tennessee, from the main hospital to satellite facilities.
• The IT department supports frameworks like telemedicine platforms and electronic health records.
• Facilities include family skills room and tech-enabled training spaces to improve patient care through technology.
• A growing IT team collaborates to implement solutions from patient monitoring systems to data analytics platforms.

Looking to join the team? Career opportunities span across 20 locations, including the main hospital and satellite facilities throughout East Tennessee.

The IT department supports everything from telemedicine platforms to electronic health records, making it an exciting place for tech professionals who want to impact healthcare.

The hospital's commitment to innovation shows in their recent migration to Workday for HR operations and their expanding digital presence across 16 counties. With facilities like the family skills room and tech-enabled training spaces, the hospital creates an environment where technology directly improves patient care.

The growing IT team collaborates with clinical staff to implement new solutions, from patient monitoring systems to data analytics platforms, making it an ideal workplace for those interested in healthcare technology.

The University of Tennessee (UT) is revolutionizing tech innovation in Knoxville through groundbreaking partnerships and fresh educational approaches. UT's industry partnerships have created real-world learning experiences where students work directly with companies on cutting-edge projects.

The university's commitment shows in their impressive stats - they've added 156 new faculty members and achieved a 91% first-year student retention rate. The university's expanding their reach with three new academic units, including the College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies.

The tech scene at UT is getting a major boost with the new TN-MADE facility, a 48,000-square-foot innovation hub where students and startups can access high-tech manufacturing equipment and work alongside industry experts.

This space isn't just about learning - it's about creating real products and launching actual businesses. The university has also stepped up its game by bringing in cutting-edge resources through partnerships with Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Y-12 National Security Complex.

The commitment to tech education goes beyond traditional classrooms.

UT's latest campus developments include new research facilities and a digital transformation initiative launching in 2024.

They're also investing heavily in student success, with new buildings dedicated to emerging technologies and collaborative learning spaces. These improvements directly connect students with industry opportunities, creating a clear path from classroom to career.

The focus is on practical, hands-on experience that actually matters in the real world, not just theoretical knowledge.

Knoxville's tech scene in 2025 is seriously incredible, with major moves happening left and right. Beehive Industries just dropped news about 150 new tech jobs, and they're not alone in transforming our city into a legit tech powerhouse.

Companies like Zibtek and HestaBit are crushing it with innovative projects, while Google just invested $10 million in Holocene, a local startup doing amazing things with carbon capture tech.

The best part? Entry-level tech salaries are competitive, starting around $75,000 annually. Companies like RDI Technologies and Sky Nano are pushing boundaries and creating real opportunities for fresh talent.

The University of Tennessee's $50 million investment in new computing facilities shows just how serious Knoxville is about tech education. With a projected 12.8% growth in tech jobs through 2030, affordable living costs, and a genuinely supportive tech community, Knoxville isn't just another tech hub - it's becoming the place where tech professionals can actually build their dream careers while enjoying an awesome quality of life.

Whether you're into software development, data science, or cybersecurity, Knoxville's tech scene is ready for you to jump in and make your mark.