Lead Tunnel Superintendent – Microtunneling & Trenchless

Software Placement Group; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Software Placement Group in Portland, OR seeks an experienced Tunnel Superintendent to lead field operations for microtunneling, tunnel boring, and trenchless projects. You will supervise crews, coordinate MTBM setup, and ensure work aligns with plans and safety standards.

Reporting to project leadership, you will optimize production, manage equipment, materials, and subcontractors, and work closely with survey, engineering, and management to maintain schedule and budget.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of tunneling or underground construction experience.
• Proven leadership in tunneling and underground crews.
• Strong knowledge of tunneling means and methods.
• Understanding of pipe jacking, shaft construction, underground utilities, and trenchless installation methods.
• Proven ability to manage manpower, equipment, materials, and production.
• Strong understanding of construction plans, specifications, line and grade, and field documentation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise daily field operations for microtunneling, tunneling, and trenchless construction projects.
• Supervise Tunnel Technicians, operators, mechanics, laborers, and other field personnel.
• Coordinate MTBM setup, launch, operation, retrieval, maintenance, and demobilization.
• Supervise operation and maintenance of tunneling boring machines and related systems.
• Oversee construction activities involving microtunneling, pipe jacking, tunnel boring, launch & receiving shafts, deep excavations, trenchless installation, and large-diameter underground utilities.
• Coordinate shaft construction, tunneling operations, pipe installation, spoil removal, and supporting underground activities.
• Monitor line and grade to ensure project requirements are met.
• Coordinate tunneling operations with survey, engineering, project management, and field teams.
• Maintain inventories and coordinate mobilization, installation, and demobilization of tunneling equipment.
• Identify equipment needs when project requirements exceed existing fleet capabilities.
• Develop daily work plans and coordinate manpower, equipment, materials, and subcontractors.
• Monitor production rates, crew productivity, equipment utilization, and project progress.
• Prepare daily reports, production records, manpower reports, and payroll documentation.
• Work with Project Managers and engineers to maintain schedule and budget.
• Identify and resolve field issues impacting safety, production, or profitability.
• Hire, train, and develop Tunnel Technicians and maintenance personnel.
• Maintain strong communication among field crews, management, engineering, and equipment personnel.
• Ensure safety compliance with requirements and standards.
• Conduct daily safety meetings and pre-task planning.

Skills

Tunnel supervision

Leadership

Field operation management

Tunneling methods

MTBM operations

Pipe jacking

Underground utilities

Troubleshooting

Safety leadership

Communication

Tools

MTBM equipment

Jacking systems

Guidance & Survey Systems

Slurry systems

Slurry pumps & circulation

Hydraulic systems

Cranes & hoisting

Shaft equipment

Pipe handling & jack­ing equipment

Job description

Software Placement Group in Portland, OR seeks an experienced Tunnel Superintendent to lead field operations for microtunneling, tunnel boring, and trenchless projects. You will supervise crews, coordinate MTBM setup, and ensure work aligns with plans and safety standards.

Reporting to project leadership, you will optimize production, manage equipment, materials, and subcontractors, and work closely with survey, engineering, and management to maintain schedule and budget.