Senior Tunnelling Manager

Senior Tunnelling Manager

Role Overview

The Senior Tunnel Manager (STM) is responsible for the day?to?day management, coordination, and technical oversight of tunneling works on the project. The STM acts as the key operational and technical link between the Chief Tunnel Manager (CTM) and the shift?based tunneling teams.

The role involves managing EPB TBM operations in mixed geology and hard?rock conditions, ensuring safety, quality, productivity, and adherence to approved methodologies and schedules.

Key Responsibilities

Operational & Technical Management

• Plan, coordinate, and supervise tunneling activities across multiple shifts, including TBM excavation, segment erection, backup works, and tunnel services.
• Ensure EPB TBM operations are carried out as per approved method statements, design requirements, and safety standards.
• Monitor TBM performance, advance rates, consumptions, downtime, and key production indicators.
• Provide technical guidance to Tunnel Shift Managers (TSM) and TBM teams for resolving operational and geological challenges.

Geotechnical & Risk Management

• Review ground conditions, TBM behavior, and instrumentation data; identify emerging risks and implement mitigation measures.
• Coordinate with design, geotechnical, and monitoring teams to ensure ground control and tunnel stability.
• Support planning and execution of special operations such as cutter interventions, ground treatment, and recovery works.

Safety & Quality Assurance

• Ensure strict implementation of underground safety procedures and permit?to?work systems.
• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with safety standards across all shifts.
• Monitor quality of segment installation, ring geometry, grouting, and tunnel finishing works.

Coordination & Reporting

• Coordinate with maintenance, electrical, ventilation, logistics, and survey teams to ensure uninterrupted tunneling progress.
• Prepare and review daily, weekly, and monthly tunneling reports covering progress, safety, quality, and risks.
• Report key issues, risks, and performance trends to the Chief Tunnel Manager (CTM).

Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop Tunnel Shift Managers (TSM) and engineering teams.
• Ensure effective communication and coordination between shifts and departments.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Strong hands?on experience in EPB TBM tunneling, preferably for metro or urban underground projects.
• Good understanding of mixed?ground and hard?rock tunneling behavior.
• Ability to manage multiple shifts and coordinate large tunnel crews.
• Strong knowledge of underground safety systems, risk management, and quality control.
• Effective leadership, communication, and problem?solving skills.