Market
Transportation
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
Jacobs is seeking an experienced Tunnel Design Engineer – Specialist who is a recognised technical authority in the design and delivery of underground structures constructed using a range of tunnelling and excavation methods. These include:
- Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM) (preferred)
- Drill & Blast (D&B)
- Sequential Excavation Method (SEM / NATM)
- Mechanical excavation using road headers and partial‑face machines
- Cut‑and‑cover and mined cavern construction where relevant
The role provides in‑depth expertise in tunnel geometry, ground–structure interaction, primary and permanent linings, and constructability, together with a strong appreciation of construction method selection and risk management in complex ground conditions.
The position operates with broad technical and professional latitude, contributing to functional strategy, technical governance, and the delivery of safe, efficient, and resilient tunnels across diverse geological and urban environments.
The role operates with broad technical and professional latitude in a complex environment, contributing to functional strategy, anticipating business and regulatory challenges, and leading teams to deliver safe, efficient, and innovative TBM tunnelling solutions.
Expertise & Professional Standing- Recognised as a technical expert in tunnel design across multiple construction methods, including mechanised and conventional tunnelling.
- Deep expertise in:
- Segmental linings (precast and composite systems)
- Sprayed concrete linings (SCL)
- In‑situ concrete linings and secondary linings
- Strong understanding of excavation‑support interaction for:
- Closed‑face and open‑face tunnelling
- Drill & blast advance cycles
- SEM/NATM staging and temporary support
- Broad working knowledge of geotechnical, structural, civil, systems, and construction disciplines relevant to underground works.
- Acts as a senior technical escalation point and trusted advisor on tunnel design and construction methodology.
Key Responsibilities:Tunnel Design & Technical Leadership
- Lead tunnel design delivery across TBM, Drill & Blast, SEM/NATM, and mechanical excavation projects.
- Develop tunnel alignment, geometry, excavation profiles, staging assumptions, and discipline interfaces.
- Design and review segmental linings, SCL (primary and permanent), and in‑situ/composite lining systems.
- Assess ground–structure interaction, settlement, deformation, and overall lining performance.
Method‑Specific & Ground‑Responsive Design
- Develop designs aligned to construction method, including face stability, advance lengths, excavation sequencing, and temporary support.
- Provide specialist input on TBM operations, D&B blastability and support classes, and road‑header feasibility.
- Evaluate transitions between excavation methods (e.g. TBM–SEM, SEM–cut & cover).
Coordination, Risk & Construction Support
- Coordinate with geotechnical, structural, civil, systems, and construction teams to deliver integrated, constructable solutions.
- Interface with contractors, suppliers, and specialists; manage key underground interfaces (shafts, caverns, cross passages, portals, stations).
- Identify and manage tunnelling risks; define mitigation and observational methods.
- Support construction through site engagement, monitoring review, and resolution of design issues.
- Contribute to design assurance, constructability reviews, and temporary works discussions.
Strategic Contribution & People Leadership
- Contribute to company‑wide tunnelling standards and best‑practice guidance.
- Drive innovation through advanced modelling, digital tools, and observational methods.
- Mentor engineers and contribute to technical papers and knowledge sharing.
Here's what you'll need
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Tunnel Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Rock Mechanics, Civil Engineering, or related discipline.
- Typically 15+ years post‑graduate experience in tunnel design covering more than one tunnelling method.
- Demonstrated experience in at least two of the following:
- TBM tunnels (preferred)
- Drill & blast tunnels
- SEM / NATM tunnels
- Mechanical excavation (road headers, partial‑face machines)
- Proficiency in geotechnical and structural analysis software (e.g. PLAXIS, FLAC/UDEC, RS2/RS3, MIDAS, SAP2000 or similar).
- International project experience preferred (HSR, metro, or major infrastructure).
- Chartered Engineer status preferred; membership of a relevant professional body required.
- Strong technical judgement, communication, and client‑facing capability.
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required for project delivery.
#LI-TG1
At Jacobs we value people. Having the right balance of belonging, career and lifestyle enables us to consistently deliver and exceed clients’ expectations.
Working alongside industry leaders, you will have the opportunity to develop your career working on key projects in an environment which encourages collaboration, knowledge sharing and innovation. To support your professional growth, Jacobs flexible working arrangements, extended leave options and a host of social, health and wellbeing events and initiatives will underpin our commitment to you.
At Jacobs it’s all about what you do, not where you are, which counts!
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.
Locations
CityStateCountry
BangaloreAll IN RegionsIndia
HyderabadAll IN RegionsIndia
KolkataAll IN RegionsIndia
PuneAll IN RegionsIndia
AhmedabadAll IN RegionsIndia
GurgaonAll IN RegionsIndia
Navi MumbaiAll IN RegionsIndia
