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Tunnel Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Engineer to join our growing Americas tunneling practice In Chelmsford, MA. This role is ideal for a technically strong, collaborative professional with hands-on experience in analysis and design of ...

... Engineer to join our growing Americas tunneling practice In Chelmsford, MA. This role is ideal for a technically strong, collaborative professional with hands-on experience in analysis and design of ...

Design wind tunnel models and mechanical components for aerospace R&D. * Create detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, and engineering drawings. * Support development of aerospace and aircraft-related ...

DESIGN ENGINEER 2

Queens, NY

$80K - $108K/yr

The Bureau of Engineering Design & Construction (BEDC) currently has a portfolio of capital ... The IHD Tunnel Mechanical Systems Section is responsible for the design of systems associated with ...

DESIGN ENGINEER 2

Queens, NY · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

The Bureau of Engineering Design & Construction (BEDC) currently has a portfolio of capital ... The IHD Tunnel Mechanical Systems Section is responsible for the design of systems associated with ...

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Tunnel Design Engineer information

See salary details

$22.5K

$90.9K

$165.5K

How much do tunnel design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for tunnel design engineer in the United States is $90,883.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $114,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Tunnel Design Engineers during the design and construction phases?

Tunnel Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing complex geological conditions, ensuring structural safety under variable loads, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams including geotechnical, structural, and construction professionals. Unexpected ground conditions or water ingress may require rapid design adaptations and innovative solutions. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as design changes can impact project timelines and costs. Regular site visits and close collaboration with contractors help address issues proactively and keep the project on track.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tunnel Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tunnel Design Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure (such as a PE). Proficiency with design software like AutoCAD, PLAXIS, and BIM systems, as well as familiarity with geotechnical analysis tools, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers manage complex projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure safe, efficient tunnel designs that meet regulatory standards and client requirements.

What are Tunnel Design Engineers?

Tunnel Design Engineers are specialized civil engineers who plan, design, and oversee the construction of tunnels for transportation, utilities, or other purposes. They analyze geological conditions, select appropriate construction methods, and ensure the structural stability and safety of tunnels. These engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to address challenges such as water ingress, ventilation, and ground movement. Their work is critical in developing infrastructure like subways, highways, water supply systems, and underground passages.

What is the difference between Tunnel Design Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectTunnel Design EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering or related, possibly with specialization in tunnelingBachelor's or higher in Civil Engineering; licensure varies by region
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, tunneling sites, construction planningConstruction sites, infrastructure projects, urban development
Industry UsageSpecialized in underground infrastructure, tunneling projectsBroad industry applications including roads, bridges, buildings

While both roles require civil engineering fundamentals, a Tunnel Design Engineer specializes in underground and tunneling projects, focusing on design and planning specific to tunnels. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, working on various infrastructure projects. The Tunnel Design Engineer role is more niche, often requiring additional expertise in geotechnical and tunneling methods.

More about Tunnel Design Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Tunnel Design Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tunnel Design Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Tunnel Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,883 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Tunnel Design Engineer

AECOM

Chelmsford, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


AECOM rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 78 rated construction


Job description

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

AECOM is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Tunnel Engineer to join our growing Americas tunneling practice In Chelmsford, MA. This role is ideal for a technically strong, collaborative professional with hands-on experience in analysis and design of tunnel and underground infrastructure.

At AECOM, you will join a global team of 50,000+ professionals driven by a shared purpose: delivering a better world. Our work improves mobility, resilience, clean water access, and community connectivity.


The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

Key Responsibilities

  • Design tunnels and underground structures using TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) and SEM (Sequential Excavation Methods).

  • Design SOE (Support of Excavation) systems for shafts, portals, cut-and-cover structures, and deep excavations.

  • Develop, verify, and validate analytical, spreadsheet and manual design calculations.

  • Apply commercial numerical modelling software to perform advanced analyses.

  • Independently organize work plans, design tasks, and deliverables for underground infrastructure projects.

  • Prepare design reports, technical specifications, and drawing packages, and assemble contract documents.

  • Collaborate closely with colleagues from other disciplines, external partners, and clients to support successful project delivery.

  • Provide expert guidance in soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and ground-structure interaction to multidisciplinary project teams on major transportation and water conveyance projects.

  • Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of AECOM's tunneling standards, tools, and best practices.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in geotechnical, structural, or tunnel engineering and 6+ years of related experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in structural, geotechnical or tunnel engineering

  • Experience with both large diameter (18 ft +) tunneling and trenchless technologies

  • Multidisciplinary coordination experience on large underground infrastructure projects ($200+ million construction value)

  • Client-facing skills and experience

  • Experience with planning and implementing geotechnical investigation programs for tunnel and underground projects

  • Proficiency in analytical and numerical analysis methods for tunnels and underground works

  • Demonstrated experience in analysis and design of tunnels and underground structures

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills

  • Strong collaboration and coordination skills

  • Ability to work independently and make informed technical decisions with minimal supervision

Additional Information

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle - from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community-where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. 


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