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Tunnel Laborer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Laborer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

The twin 45' diameter 1.5-mile tunnels will be bored by TBM, creating the second largest TBM tunnel opening for a TBM in North America. The project is expected to continue to the end of 2027. Key ...

Skilled Laborer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

The twin 45' diameter 1.5-mile tunnels will be bored by TBM, creating the second largest TBM tunnel opening for a TBM in North America. The project is expected to continue to the end of 2027. Key ...

Perform various carpentry tasks involving physical labor on highway, road, tunnel, bridge and concrete structures construction. * Ensures compliance of production staff with all company policies and ...

Carpenter

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

... tunnel opening for a TBM in North America. The project is expected to continue to the end of 2027. Key Responsibilities * Perform various carpentry tasks involving physical labor on highway, road ...

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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 Virginia?

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Tunnel Laborer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Tunnel Laborer job openings:

Infographic showing various Tunnel Laborer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Bridge Tunnel Crewmember (Entry-Level)

GovFirst

Hampton, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description


Job Title: Bridge-Tunnel Operations Crew Member
Location: Hampton, VA
Employment Type: Full-Time (W2)
GovFirst is seeking a dedicated and safety-focused Bridge-Tunnel Operations Crew Member to support onsite operations within the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT), Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge-Tunnel (MMMBT), and related facilities. This role is responsible for traffic control, vehicle inspections, incident response, roadway safety, facility security, and customer assistance in a high-volume transportation environment.
Responsibilities:
  • Staff inspection station locations to stop and inspect vehicles for over-height conditions, hazardous materials, security threats, and regulatory violations.
  • Accurately document vehicle inspections, violations, and incidents, and communicate findings to the Operations Crew Lead and Control Room.
  • Direct and control traffic throughout the facility using approved traffic control techniques, including hand signals, STOP/SLOW paddles, whistles, and verbal commands.
  • Maintain a visible security presence and remain alert to suspicious activities, security concerns, and safety hazards.
  • Investigate and report unusual or suspicious activity in accordance with established procedures.
  • Assist State and Local Police, Fire, EMS, and maintenance personnel during routine operations and emergency situations.
  • Respond to roadway incidents, including vehicle crashes, disabled vehicles, abandoned vehicles, debris removal, tunnel evacuations, and traffic detours.
  • Provide authorized roadside assistance to motorists, including tire changes, battery jump starts, fuel assistance, and debris removal.
  • Serve as a member of an Emergency Response Team and respond promptly to incidents within the assigned operational area.
  • Support emergency traffic management and roadway safety operations.
  • Operate patrol and support vehicles, including SUVs, passenger vans, and heavy-duty pickup trucks equipped with arrow boards and emergency equipment.
  • Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of assigned vehicles and equipment.
  • Deploy, inspect, set up, and restock Incident Response Trailers as required.
  • Operate hand tools such as shovels, brooms, and other equipment used in roadway and facility maintenance activities.
  • Perform housekeeping duties to maintain safe, clean, and orderly work areas.
  • Conduct inspections of facilities, grounds, buildings, and multi-story industrial structures.
  • Process over-height vehicle violations at HRBT and MMMBT, including escorting vehicles and coordinating turnaround procedures.
  • Provide wide-load vehicle escorts using designated vehicles and equipment.
  • Monitor roadway conditions for congestion, lane closures, signal malfunctions, roadway hazards, and other operational concerns.
  • Communicate professionally and effectively with motorists, coworkers, supervisors, emergency responders, and Control Room personnel.
  • Operate two-way radio systems, telephones, and computer-based communication systems.
  • Complete accurate inspection reports, vehicle logs, incident reports, and other required documentation.
  • Relay timely and accurate operational information to supervisors and Control Room personnel.
  • Perform light to moderate manual labor, including lifting up to 50 pounds, standing, sitting, walking, bending, pushing, pulling, and carrying equipment.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by a Supervisor or Senior Project Manager.

Requirements
Required Skills & Qualifications:
  • Ability to meet the physical demands of the position in all weather conditions.
  • Strong situational awareness and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
  • Scheduling flexibility, including weekends, holidays, rotating shifts, and emergency assignments.
  • Field operations experience preferred.
  • Strong customer service skills and professional demeanor.
  • Ability to work effectively under pressure and respond appropriately during emergency situations.
Education & Experience Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Knowledge of traffic control operations, rules, procedures, and roadway safety practices.
  • Familiarity with Hampton Roads interstate highways and local roadway systems.
  • Strong verbal and written English communication skills.
  • Spanish bilingual skills are a plus.
  • General working knowledge of vehicle maintenance and inspection procedures.
  • Experience using radio, telephone, dispatch, and communication systems.
  • Computer proficiency, including Windows-based applications and Apple devices.
Required Work Authorization:
  • U.S. Citizenship

Required Licensing & Background Check:
  • Valid driver's license required.
  • DMV records check required.
  • Pre-employment drug screening required.
  • Fingerprint-based Criminal History Records Check required.