The Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) oversees a network of public higher education institutions in Tennessee, including universities, community colleges, and technical schools. As of 2025, TBR continues to be a significant employer in the state, offering various roles in administration, faculty, and support services. This article explores the average salary ranges, factors influencing earnings, salary variations by experience, job market trends, benefits, job outlook, and the impact of education and certifications on salaries for employees of the Tennessee Board of Regents.
Average Salary Range at Tennessee Board of Regents
In 2024, the Tennessee Board of Regents reported an average salary of $93,213 with a median salary of $83,121. The highest salary recorded at TBR was $498,560. The salary range varies depending on the position held within the organization, with executive roles such as chancellors and senior administrators earning the highest compensation.
Salary Breakdown by Occupation:
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Management Positions: Positions in management, such as vice chancellors, typically have higher salaries, averaging around $158,407 per year.
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Technical and Engineering Roles: Employees working in computer, engineering, and scientific roles within TBR have an average salary of about $85,944.
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Business and Financial Operations: Employees in business and financial operations within TBR earn an average salary of $122,504.
Factors Influencing Earnings
Several factors contribute to salary differences across various positions within TBR. These include:
1. Position and Responsibilities
Higher-level administrative roles, such as chancellors or senior vice presidents, command significantly higher salaries due to their increased responsibilities. These roles often involve overseeing multiple campuses or departments and making decisions that affect the institution’s overall strategy and success.
2. Experience and Tenure
Salaries tend to increase with years of experience and a proven track record within higher education. Professionals with long tenure at TBR often see incremental salary increases based on their contributions and accumulated knowledge.
3. Educational Qualifications
Higher education is a key driver of salary growth. For example, individuals holding master’s degrees or doctorates are typically eligible for higher-paying administrative or teaching positions. Specialized degrees or certifications in areas such as finance, education leadership, or information technology can further enhance salary potential.
4. Location
While salaries at TBR are generally consistent across the state, there may be slight variations depending on the cost of living in different regions of Tennessee. Positions at flagship universities or institutions in larger cities may offer higher salaries to offset higher living costs.
Salary by Experience Level
While specific salary data for TBR employees by experience level is limited, trends in higher education show the following general patterns:
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Entry-Level Positions: Individuals in entry-level positions typically earn at the lower end of the salary spectrum. These roles may require a bachelor’s degree and may involve assistant or coordinator positions within administrative or academic departments.
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Mid-Level Positions: Mid-career employees with a few years of experience and specialized knowledge typically see a salary range that reflects their growing expertise and responsibilities. These roles might involve managerial duties or leading a specific department or program.
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Senior-Level Positions: Senior-level employees, such as directors or vice chancellors, command higher salaries due to their extensive experience, leadership responsibilities, and advanced educational qualifications. These positions often require overseeing large teams or campuses.
Job Market Trends and Outlook
The job outlook for TBR employees in 2025 is promising, given the increasing emphasis on higher education and the growing demand for skilled professionals in administrative and technical roles. As Tennessee’s public universities and colleges continue to grow, the need for qualified employees in various roles, from faculty to administrators, remains strong.
Key Market Trends:
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Technological Advancements: As higher education institutions increasingly rely on technology for instruction, administration, and student services, roles related to IT, cloud computing, and data analysis are in high demand. TBR employees with expertise in these areas may see higher salaries and more job opportunities.
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Increased Enrollment: With a growing student population, public colleges and universities under TBR’s oversight are expanding their offerings, creating more positions in faculty, administration, and support services.
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Focus on Diversity and Inclusion: TBR’s commitment to diversity and inclusion also impacts job opportunities, with roles focused on promoting diversity within the student body and staff increasingly available.
Benefits and Perks
In addition to competitive salaries, employees at the Tennessee Board of Regents enjoy a comprehensive benefits package. These benefits often include:
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Health Insurance: TBR provides comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for employees and their families.
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Retirement Plans: Employees have access to strong retirement plans, including pension options and 401(k) plans to ensure financial security post-employment.
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Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday policies help employees maintain a healthy work-life balance.
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Professional Development: TBR encourages employees to continue their education and professional development by offering opportunities for training, workshops, and further certification programs.
Employee reviews often highlight the quality of these benefits, which contribute to TBR’s status as a desirable place to work.
Impact of Education and Certifications on Salary
Educational background and certifications are essential in determining salary potential within TBR.
1. Advanced Degrees
Holding a master’s degree or doctorate is often a requirement for higher-paying positions in higher education, particularly in administrative roles. These qualifications can significantly increase an employee’s eligibility for promotions and higher salary brackets.
2. Certifications
Specialized certifications in areas like project management, information technology, or financial management can enhance an individual’s qualifications and lead to salary increases. TBR employees with certifications in areas such as IT management or data analytics are in higher demand and often earn more than those without.
3. Continuous Learning
Engagement in ongoing professional development through workshops, online courses, and training programs is encouraged at TBR. Employees who invest in learning new skills or gaining additional qualifications tend to have better job security and salary potential.
Conclusion
In 2025, the Tennessee Board of Regents continues to offer competitive salaries and benefits to its employees, with salaries influenced by factors like position, experience, education, and location. The job market within TBR remains strong, with a positive outlook for professionals in a wide range of fields. By investing in further education, gaining experience, and obtaining relevant certifications, employees can enhance their earning potential and career advancement opportunities within this prominent higher education system.
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