Principal Tunneling Engineer – Underground Space Design

SYSTRA UK & Ireland; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

SYSTRA UK & Ireland is seeking a Principal Engineer to lead design delivery of major tunnel and underground projects in the UK. You will oversee feasibility, concept, detailed design and documentation, with responsibility for quality, budget, and programme.

The role demands extensive tunnel expertise, leadership, and client-facing bid support. You will mentor teams, develop new design standards, and ensure compliance with CDM regulations.

Qualifications

• Construction detailed design of tunnels and underground space.
• Soil and hard rock tunnelling design on land and under the sea.
• 2D and 3D modelling of underground space.
• Tunnel support design in rock and soil using scan lines and standard software packages.
• Rock bolting design using 2D and 3D programmes.
• Temporary and permanent tunnel portal design.
• Pipe jacking and utility tunnel design with thrust block design.
• In situ testing of rock stresses and ground investigation design.
• Rock face logging systems such as RMR.
• Tunnel design reports and drawings for D&B contracts.
• Extensive experience in tunnel and cavern design in the UK and Ireland.

Responsibilities

• Production and approval of design concepts, drawings, specifications and other technical documents.
• Establishment of internal design standards to improve quality and efficiency and technical development.
• Work within project teams to achieve objectives; supervise others and sign off design certificates.
• Prepare and check feasibility studies, design reports and tender documents.
• Develop and deliver effective, value-for-money and innovative design solutions.
• Prepare and check engineering designs, calculations and oversee production.
• Assist in expressions of interest and tender preparations.
• Ensure health, safety and environmental compliance, including CDM regulations.
• Manage project correspondence and represent the Technical Directorate within the SYSTRA group.
• Support team leaders with work-winning, bids and financial controls.

Skills

Tunnel design

Soil and rock tunnelling

2D & 3D modelling

Tunnel support design

Rock bolting design

Tunnel portal design

Pipe jacking & utility tunnels

In situ rock testing

Rock face logging (RMR)

D&B contract design

UK & Ireland tunnel experience

Work-winning & bids support

Tools

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Job description

SYSTRA UK & Ireland is seeking a Principal Engineer to lead design delivery of major tunnel and underground projects in the UK. You will oversee feasibility, concept, detailed design and documentation, with responsibility for quality, budget, and programme.

The role demands extensive tunnel expertise, leadership, and client-facing bid support. You will mentor teams, develop new design standards, and ensure compliance with CDM regulations.