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Tunnel Laborer Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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Tunnel Laborer information

What is a tunnel laborer?

Tunnel Laborers are construction workers who perform manual labor in the excavation, support, and maintenance of tunnels. Their tasks often include digging, drilling, removing debris, installing tunnel supports, and assisting skilled tradespeople like electricians and welders. They work in challenging underground conditions, often requiring specialized safety equipment and training to manage risks such as confined spaces and poor ventilation. Tunnel Laborers play a crucial role in infrastructure projects like subways, sewers, and roadways that require tunneling.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tunnel laborer?

To thrive as a Tunnel Laborer, you need physical stamina, familiarity with construction practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with tools like jackhammers, drills, and tunnel boring machinery, as well as certifications in OSHA safety standards, are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safety, efficiency, and quality work in the demanding and hazardous environment of tunnel construction.

What are some common challenges faced by tunnel laborers on construction sites, and how are they addressed?

Tunnel laborers often work in confined, underground spaces where ventilation, lighting, and communication can be challenging. They must remain vigilant for safety hazards such as falling debris, water ingress, or equipment malfunctions. To address these challenges, employers typically provide comprehensive safety training, enforce strict use of personal protective equipment, and implement regular safety briefings. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as laborers frequently collaborate with engineers, equipment operators, and safety supervisors to ensure the smooth and safe progress of tunneling operations.

What is the difference between Tunnel Laborer vs Miner?

AspectTunnel LaborerMiner
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, OSHA safety trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, specialized mining certifications
Work EnvironmentUnderground tunnels, construction sitesUnderground mines, shafts
Industry UsageConstruction, infrastructure projectsMining industry, resource extraction

While both Tunnel Laborers and Miners work underground, Tunnel Laborers typically assist in construction and maintenance of tunnels, focusing on support tasks. Miners are involved in extracting minerals or resources from the earth. Both roles require safety training and work in confined underground spaces, but Miners usually need additional certifications related to mining safety and operations.

What are popular job titles related to Tunnel Laborer jobs in Oregon?

For Tunnel Laborer jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tunnel Laborer jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Tunnel Laborer jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Tunnel Laborer jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Tunnel Laborer job openings:

Tunnel Laborer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tunnel Laborer job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Estimator - Microtunneling & Underground Utilities

H. T. PROF Group

Portland, OR • On-site

$95 - $150/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Estimator - Microtunneling & Underground Utilities

Location Portland, OR

Type Direct Hire

ID CA247-2757407

Posted Aug 27, 2026

Estimator – Heavy Civil / Underground Construction Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Mid-level to Senior Estimator to join our growing Heavy Civil and Underground Construction team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience estimating microtunneling, utility tunnel, horizontal boring, trenchless, and underground utility projects. This individual will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates, developing proposals, evaluating project risks, and supporting project teams from preconstruction through project execution.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the preparation of detailed, accurate, and competitive cost estimates and bid proposals for heavy civil and underground construction projects.
  • Review project drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, and contract documents to identify project scope and risks.
  • Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and perform field evaluations as required.
  • Prepare comprehensive quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work.
  • Develop project schedules and sequencing to support estimate development.
  • Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
  • Analyze alternative construction methods, means and methods, and value engineering opportunities to improve competitiveness.
  • Prepare Requests for Quotations (RFQs) and evaluate vendor and subcontractor proposals.
  • Coordinate with operations, engineering, and project management teams throughout the estimating process.
  • Participate in project handoff and kickoff meetings to ensure successful transition from estimating to construction.
  • Support project teams with budget reviews, change order pricing, and cost analysis during construction.
  • Mentor junior estimators and contribute to the development of estimating best practices.
  • Maintain current knowledge of market pricing, labor productivity, equipment costs, and industry trends.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with owners, engineers, subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners.
  • Promote a strong culture of safety throughout all phases of project planning and execution.
Preferred Project Experience

Candidates should possess estimating experience in one or more of the following:

  • Utility Tunnels
  • Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD)
  • Jack and Bore
  • Pipe Jacking
  • Water and Wastewater Infrastructure
  • Underground Utilities
  • Sewer and Storm Drain Systems
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred.
  • 7+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil, underground, or trenchless construction.
  • Demonstrated experience estimating microtunneling, utility tunnel, boring, or similar underground infrastructure projects.
  • Strong understanding of excavation, shoring, tunneling methods, underground utilities, and civil construction practices.
  • Experience preparing estimates from conceptual through final design.
  • Proficiency with estimating software such as InEight, HCSS HeavyBid, Bid2Win, or similar.
  • Working knowledge of Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple estimates while meeting deadlines.
  • Valid driver's license and willingness to travel for project site visits as needed.
Preferred Skills
  • Experience with Design-Build, CM/GC, Progressive Design-Build, or Alternative Delivery projects.
  • Knowledge of geotechnical reports and underground risk assessment.
  • Experience performing constructability reviews and value engineering.
  • Leadership experience mentoring estimating teams.
  • Full-time position.
  • Office-based with periodic travel to project sites.
  • Approximately 75% office and 25% field.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required during site visits.
Why Join Us?

Join a team delivering complex underground infrastructure projects that improve communities through innovative trenchless and heavy civil construction solutions. You'll have the opportunity to work on challenging projects, collaborate with experienced professionals, and contribute to the successful delivery of critical infrastructure.

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