Graduate Trainee Slurry TBM Operators (Microtunnelling Machine Operator)

Joseph Gallagher Limited; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A civil engineering company is seeking Graduate Trainee Slurry TBM Operators to join their tunnelling division in the UK. This role is ideal for recent graduates in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering. You will gain hands-on training, and work on significant infrastructure projects, with flexibility to travel required. Comprehensive training will be provided, aiming to progress you to a fully competent operator.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering (preferred).
• Strong technical aptitude and willingness to learn in a demanding, fast-paced environment.
• Flexibility to work and travel to various project locations.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the operation and maintenance of slurry TBMs.
• Support daily tunnelling and shift operations.
• Perform pre-start inspections and daily checklists.

Skills

Strong technical aptitude

Good communication skills

Teamwork skills

Education

Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering

Job description

Job Offer – Graduate Trainee Slurry TBM Operators (Microtunnelling Machine Operator)

Position: Graduate Trainee Slurry TBM Operators

Location: Various project sites across the UK

Reporting to: Microtunnelling Manager

About the Role

Joseph Gallagher Ltd (JGL) is offering an exciting opportunity for x2 Graduate Trainee Slurry Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) Operators to join our specialist tunnelling division. This role is suited to a recent university graduate with a degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or a related discipline, who is eager to begin a career in the tunnelling and civil engineering industry.

The successful candidate will work alongside experienced tunnelling professionals, gaining hands‑on training and experience in slurry TBM operation, tunnel support systems, and plant operations. The position will involve working on a range of major infrastructure and tunnelling projects across the UK, so flexibility and willingness to travel are essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the operation and maintenance of slurry TBMs under the supervision of experienced operators.
• Support daily tunnelling and shift operations, including slurry management, pressure monitoring, and spoil transport systems.
• Assist with the set‑up and alignment of the TBM jacking rig and rails, ensuring all components are correctly installed, levelled, and secured prior to launch.
• Perform pre‑start inspections, daily checklists, and QA procedures in accordance with JGL’s tunnelling standards and manufacturer guidelines.
• Carry out basic mechanical and electrical checks and report any issues to the TBM Engineer or Supervisor.
• Maintain accurate operational and safety records in line with site procedures.
• Undertake training and development to achieve competency as a qualified Slurry TBM Operator.

Requirements

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering (preferred).
• Strong technical aptitude and willingness to learn in a demanding, fast‑paced environment.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Flexibility to work and travel to various project locations across the UK.
• Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and operational discipline.

Training and Development

• Comprehensive training will be provided by Joseph Gallagher Ltd, including both on‑site practical instruction and classroom‑based learning.
• The training will cover:
  • Slurry TBM systems and tunnelling plant.
  • TBM jacking rig and rail setup procedures.
  • Slurry circuit management and separation plant operations.
  • QA documentation, pre‑start and daily checklists.
  • Safe tunnelling and maintenance practices.
  • The aim is to progress the trainee to a fully competent Slurry TBM Operator, capable of leading operations on future JGL tunnelling projects.

Company Background

The Joseph Gallagher Group is a family owned Civil Engineering business that delivers expertise whilst putting client satisfaction at the core of the business. Built on a personal reputation for honesty and quality, we understand the actions we take affect the communities and environments we operate in.

LIFE Culture

We're promoting a culture change within the industry and demonstrating initiatives to dramatically improve Health, Safety and Wellbeing. In 2014, we launched our award‑winning cultural safety programme (LIFE) which is deeply embedded into the company’s DNA and core values.

Disability Confident Committed

We are a disability confident employer and we're committed to providing equal opportunities in employment. All individuals will be treated in a fair and equal manner and in accordance with the law regardless of gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation.

Reasonable Adjustments

We want to make our recruitment processes accessible to everyone, so if there is any way that we can support you to enable you to be the best you can, please contact the HR team at [e-mail].

For more info on the role, please contact [e-mail]