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Tunneling information

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$16

$42

$78

How much do tunneling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for tunneling in Washington is $42.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.69 and $47.36 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.

What are popular job titles related to Tunneling jobs in Washington?

For Tunneling jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tunneling jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Tunneling jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Tunneling jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Tunneling job openings:

Tunneling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tunneling job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,135 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Technical Director - Tunnels

Jacobs Engineering Group Inc.

Washington, DC • On-site

$225 - $275/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Washington, District of Columbia, United States

Capabilities

Civil and Structural

Office Setup

Hybrid

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

We are seeking a highly experienced and visionary expert Tunnel Engineer to be part of our core leadership teamfor of ournational tunnel engineering group. This role requires a dynamic leader with a proven track record in Design Management and Project Management of complex tunnel and underground infrastructure projects, as well as the ability to drive technical excellence across a broad portfolio of tunneling projects. The successful candidate will drive strategic initiatives, oversee complex projects, and mentor a team of talented engineers.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership and Strategy:As part of Jacobs’ Americas Region Tunnel Leadership Team, provide overall technical leadership to a portfolio of tunnel and underground infrastructure projects, and establish strategies for developing technical expertise within Jacobs’ tunneling team, ensuring that Jacobs remains at the forefront of industry trends and standards.

Project/Design Management:Take on Project or Design Manager roles and oversee the planning, design, and execution of large-scale tunnel and underground infrastructure projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

Technical Expertise:Provide expert guidance on complex engineering challenges, including geotechnical analysis, structural design, and construction methodologies. This expert guidance will be provided across a portfolio of tunneling projects.

Team Development:Mentor and develop a team of tunnel engineers, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Provide Support to Business Growth & Stakeholder Engagement:Collaborate with clients, government agencies, and industry partners to build strong relationships and secure new business opportunities. Provide technical support and differentiation to Jacobs’ Sales teams when pursuing large and complex tunneling projects.

Quality Assurance:Ensure all projects comply with safety regulations, environmental standards, and quality control procedures.

Research and Development:Stay abreast of the latest advancements in tunnel engineering and integrate new technologies and best practices into projects. You will be recognized as a tunneling subject matter expert within Jacobs, and will provide support to global tunnel market growth and technical development strategies, working with both National and Global Tunnel leadership personnel.

Here’s what you’ll need
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or a related field. Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
  • Minimum of 20 years of experience in tunnel engineering, with at least 5 years in a leadership role in a major tunnel project within the US.
  • Extensive knowledge of planning, design and construction of tunnel and underground infrastructure projects, including TBM, NATM, and cut-and-cover methods of construction. Good understanding for engineering software such as AutoCAD, PLAXIS and/or SAP 2000and other software utilized by the team..
  • Strong leadership and team management abilities, with a proven track record of leading successful projects and teams. Experience establishing and implementing strategies, mentoring staff and providing technical input as a subject matter expert across a portfolio of projects, in addition to leading large projects.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information to diverse audiences. The ability to collaborate and work as part of an inclusive leadership team.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
  • A forward-thinking mindset with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement.

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, and in the things you care about. Your health. Your well-being. Your security. Your future. Employees have access to medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and the ability to purchase company stock at a discount. Eligible employees may also enroll in a deferred compensation plan or the Executive Deferral Plan. Jacobs has an unlimited U.S. Personalized Paid Time Off (PPTO) policy for full-time salaried/exempt employees, seven paid holidays, and caregiver leave. And certain roles may be eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases, performance discretionary bonus, and stock.

The base salary range for this position is $225,000.00 to $275,000.00. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Job posted on August 04, 2026. This position will be open for at least 3 days.

Qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered for employment

We value collaboration and believe that in-person interactions are crucial for both our culture and client delivery. We empower employees with our hybrid working policy, allowing them to split their work week between Jacobs offices/projects and remote locations enabling them to deliver their best work.

Your application experience is important to us, and we’re keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support .

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