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Tunneling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tutorperini

Chief Estimator - Tunneling

Los Angeles, CA

$250K - $300K/yr

We are known for our expertise in the engineering and construction of deep shafts and tunnels of all sizes and complexity. Our goal is to be the industry's best source, and best value, for complete ...

STV

Senior Tunneling Project Manager

New York, NY · On-site

$204K - $233K/yr

STV is seeking a Senior Tunneling Project Manager to join our Centers of Excellence team in New York City. This role will support and lead complex underground infrastructure projects across the NYC ...

MWH

Tunneling Superintendent

Portland, OR · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

MWH Constructors are seeking a Tunneling Superintendent to support a $300m large-diameter water pipeline project for our water and wastewater infrastructure project located in Gresham, OR. This ...

Tutor Perini

Chief Estimator - Tunneling

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$250K - $300K/yr

We are known for our expertise in the engineering and construction of deep shafts and tunnels of all sizes and complexity. Our goal is to be the industry's best source, and best value, for complete ...

MWH

Tunneling Superintendent

Kent, WA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

MWH Constructors are seeking a Tunneling Superintendent to support a $300m large-diameter water pipeline project for our water and wastewater infrastructure project located in Gresham, OR. This ...

MWH

Tunneling Superintendent

Kent, WA

$120K - $160K/yr

MWH Constructors are seeking a Tunneling Superintendent to support a $300m large-diameter water pipeline project for our water and wastewater infrastructure project located in Gresham, OR. This ...

Parsons

Resident Engineer - Tunneling

Newark, NJ · On-site

$125K - $225K/yr

The Hudson Tunnel project in NY/NJ was recently awarded to Parsons and 2 other partners. As a Resident Engineer specializing in Tunnels, you will be responsible for overseeing the construction ...

MWH

Tunneling Superintendent

Portland, OR · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

MWH Constructors are seeking a Tunneling Superintendent to support a $300m large-diameter water pipeline project for our water and wastewater infrastructure project located in Gresham, OR. This ...

MWH

Tunneling Superintendent

Kent, WA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

MWH Constructors are seeking a Tunneling Superintendent to support a $300m large-diameter water pipeline project for our water and wastewater infrastructure project located in Gresham, OR. This ...

Parsons

Resident Engineer - Tunneling

New York, NY · On-site

$125K - $225K/yr

The Hudson Tunnel project in NY/NJ was recently awarded to Parsons and 2 other partners. As a Resident Engineer specializing in Tunnels, you will be responsible for overseeing the construction ...

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Tunneling information

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How much do tunneling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for tunneling in the United States is $37.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $41.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is tunneling in construction?

Tunneling in construction refers to the process of excavating underground passages, typically for transportation systems like subways, railways, roads, or utilities such as water and sewage pipelines. The work involves specialized techniques and equipment to safely create stable structures beneath the ground, often through challenging soil and rock conditions. Tunneling projects require careful planning, engineering expertise, and strict safety protocols to manage risks like ground settlement or water ingress. Professionals in this field may include engineers, geologists, machine operators, and construction workers. The complexity and scale of tunneling projects can vary greatly depending on the environment and intended use.

What are some common challenges faced by tunneling engineers during large infrastructure projects?

Tunneling engineers often encounter challenges such as varying ground conditions, water ingress, and maintaining safety standards in confined underground environments. Coordination with other engineering teams is crucial to manage risks and ensure timely progress, especially when working near existing structures or in urban settings. Staying adaptable and proactive in problem-solving is essential, as unexpected geological conditions can require rapid adjustments to methods or equipment. Clear communication with construction teams, geologists, and project managers helps address these challenges effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tunneling engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tunneling Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or geotechnical engineering, strong analytical skills, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tunnel boring machines (TBMs), CAD software, and construction management systems is typically required, along with certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help address project challenges and coordinate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and innovative tunnel construction in complex and often hazardous environments.

What is the difference between Tunneling vs Drilling Technician?

AspectTunnelingDrilling Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; specialized training in tunnel constructionHigh school diploma; technical training or certification in drilling operations
Work EnvironmentUnderground or confined tunnel sites, construction zonesSurface or underground drilling sites, construction or mining environments
Industry UsageConstruction, transportation, infrastructure projectsMining, oil and gas, construction industries

Both tunneling and drilling technicians work in construction-related environments, often requiring similar certifications. Tunneling technicians focus on underground tunnel construction, while drilling technicians operate equipment for surface or underground drilling. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and industry interests.

More about Tunneling jobs

What cities are hiring for Tunneling jobs?

Cities with the most Tunneling job openings:

What states have the most Tunneling jobs?

States with the most job openings for Tunneling jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Tunneling jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Tunneling jobs are:

Tunneling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tunneling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 94% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,817 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Chief Estimator - Tunneling

Los Angeles, CA

Tutorperini
See more jobs at Tutorperiniexternal

$250K - $300K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Expected Salary range for this position is $250,000-$300,000 depending upon experience.

Frontier-Kemper, a Tutor Perini Company, is seekinga Chief Estimatorto join our office inSylmar, CAoffice

About Frontier-Kemper

Excellence in Underground and Heavy Civil Construction

At Frontier-Kemper, we specialize in heavy civil construction, tunneling and underground mine development. We are known for our expertise in the engineering and construction of deep shafts and tunnels of all sizes and complexity. Our goal is to be the industry's best source, and best value, for complete turn-key construction, engineering and design-build services and related products.

Across North America, notable projects include The Purple Line Extensions section 3 in Los Angeles, Water Tunnel number 3 in New York City, Eagle Mountain Gas Pipeline and Kemano T2 tunneling projects in British Columbia, Canada, the Inter-Quarry Tunnel in Leesburg, VA and the Century Mine in Volga, WV.

Extraordinary Projects need Exceptional Talent

DESCRIPTION:

As aChief Estimatorat Frontier-Kemper, reporting to the CEO,you will have the opportunity to:

  • Lead, review and sign off on all estimating activities for tunneling projects

  • Lead the thorough review of the contract plans, specifications, and other documents for the bid

  • Supervise estimating personnel assigned to tunneling bids

  • Identify major and unusual items in RFQs & RFPs

  • Solicit quotations from major subcontractors and suppliers

  • Prepare HCSS comparison sheets

  • Identify D/M/WBE requirements and prepare plans to meet the requirements

  • Develop clear write-ups and documentation required for SOQ / RFP type proposals

  • Prepare documents for bid and proposal submission

  • For Joint Venture bids, set up JV manual

  • Set up Bid in HCSS

  • Price-up bid items and review with project team

  • Timeline equipment procurement and logistics

  • Provide assignments and monitor take-off estimators

  • Maintain dialogue with owner's representatives, owners, and JV partners throughout bid process

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or similar field of study from an accredited institution and 10 or more years of relevant estimating, project management and / or construction experience. Or 14 or more years of relevant experience if the degree requirement is not met.

  • 10 or more years of tunneling and or heavy civil project experience

  • 5 or more years of experience estimating on tunneling projects

  • 5 or more years of experience leading/ supervising estimating teams

  • Experience with HCSS, Primavera P6 and Procore or similar software

  • Willingness to travel up to 15-20%

Frontier-Kemper builds extraordinary projects, and we need exceptional talent. Join us and together we will build the future.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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