Senior Tunnel Construction Engineer

Senior Tunnel Construction Engineer

Role Overview

We are seeking a Senior Tunnel Construction Engineer to lead the delivery of major underground infrastructure, including bored tunnels and large-scale caverns, as part of a high-profile transportation and utilities program. You will act as the technical authority and governance lead, ensuring that all contractor activities—from TBM assembly to site demobilization—are executed to the highest standards of safety, quality, and sustainability.

Core Responsibilities

Construction Execution & Governance

• Direct the supervision of hard rock TBM operations, including assembly, excavation, and breakthrough phases.

• Manage the construction of underground caverns utilizing Sprayed Concrete Lining (SCL/NATM) and drill-and-blast methodologies.

• Ensure strict adherence to client codes, international standards, and approved design specifications across all tunneling interfaces.

• Provide on-site technical solutions to mitigate construction challenges and interface conflicts.

TBM Decommissioning & Site Closure

• Oversee breakthrough and recovery processes, coordinating extraction strategies through shafts or tunnel ends.

• Review and approve contractor lifting plans, heavy transport logistics, and dismantling procedures for TBM components.

• Manage the closure of temporary support systems, including slurry treatment plants and muck handling facilities.

• Supervise final grouting, sealing, and structural completion to ensure seamless transition to permanent works.

Planning, Controls & Risk Management

• Analyze contractor schedules (Level 3/4) to validate sequencing for drives and cavern excavation.

• Monitor performance metrics such as advance rates and cycle times, implementing recovery actions as necessary.

• Implement Ground Risk Management protocols, ensuring robust ground support and management of varied geological conditions.

Contractor & Interface Coordination

• Act as the primary client representative for tunneling contractors, reviewing method statements and design submissions.

• Ensure seamless integration of civil, structural, and mechanical systems with the underground infrastructure.

Health, Safety, Quality & Environment (HSQE)

• Champion a zero-harm culture, enforcing safety protocols for confined spaces, high-risk lifting, and heavy plant operations.

• Conduct quality inspections for segmental linings and ground support systems, ensuring compliance with ISO and regional standards.

• Oversee environmental compliance and site restoration for demobilization activities.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Mining, or Geotechnical Engineering.

• Experience: Minimum of 15 years in underground construction, with a focus on large-diameter TBM drives and cavern excavation.

• Technical Skills: Deep knowledge of EPB/Slurry TBM systems, SEM/NATM methods, and heavy lifting operations.

• Context: Proven track record on mega-projects (metro, hydro, or mountain tunnels) in a PMC, EPC, or Client-side governance role.

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with ITA guidelines, Eurocodes, and KSA construction standards.

• Understanding of Giga-project governance and digital delivery frameworks.

• Excellent leadership and stakeholder engagement abilities to drive contractor performance.