Tunnel workers for TBMs
Certified tunnel workers ready to deploy
We connect tunnel boring machine projects with certified tunnel workers, supporting tunnel workers jobs with experienced operators, electricians, mechanics, erector operators and support crews ready to integrate quickly into your team, adapt to complex site conditions and contribute efficiently at every stage of the project anywhere in the world.
TBM operator
The TBM operator is the most critical role in any tunnel boring machine project. Our certified TBM operators have hands-on experience with all major machine types (Earth Pressure Balance (EPB), slurry and hard rock) and are capable of managing the full operation cycle: face pressure control, advance rate management, ring building coordination and real-time monitoring of machine parameters. Each operator we supply has a proven track record on real construction projects and is ready to integrate into your team from day one.
TBM electric systems specialist
TBM electric systems are among the most complex and safety-critical components of any tunnel boring machine. Our TBM electric specialists are experienced in the installation, configuration and maintenance of high-voltage power supply systems, variable frequency drives, PLC control systems and the full electrical infrastructure of the TBM and its backup train. Their expertise ensures continuous machine availability and compliance with underground electrical safety standards throughout the construction project.
TBM electrician
Our TBM electricians are qualified professionals specialised in the electrical maintenance and troubleshooting of tunnel boring machines in active underground construction environments. They are trained to work safely with high-voltage systems, carry out preventive and corrective maintenance on motors, sensors, cables and control panels, and respond rapidly to electrical faults to minimise machine downtime. All our TBM electricians hold the certifications required for underground electrical work and are experienced in meeting the demanding safety standards of international tunneling projects.
TBM crane operator
Crane operations are essential to the safe and efficient progress of any tunneling project. Our TBM crane operators are certified professionals with experience managing lifting equipment in confined underground environments, including gantry cranes, overhead cranes and segment handling cranes used in the TBM backup area and at the shaft. They work closely with erector operators and logistics teams to ensure the continuous, safe supply of segments, materials and equipment to the tunnel face, maintaining the production rhythm of the construction works.
TBM hydraulic mechanic
The hydraulic systems of a tunnel boring machine are fundamental to its cutting, thrusting and lining operations. Our TBM hydraulic mechanics are specialists in the diagnosis, maintenance and repair of high-pressure hydraulic circuits, including thrust cylinders, erector hydraulics, cutterhead drive systems and muck discharge mechanisms. Their technical skills and hands-on experience allow them to carry out both preventive maintenance and emergency repairs under demanding underground construction conditions, ensuring maximum machine uptime throughout the project.
TBM operator segment crane
The segment crane operator plays a vital role in the ring-building process at the heart of every TBM advance cycle. Working in close coordination with the erector operator, our segment crane specialists are responsible for the precise handling and positioning of precast concrete segments from the storage area to the erector feeder, a task that demands both technical accuracy and a thorough understanding of tunnel construction sequencing. Their performance directly impacts the production rate and structural quality of the tunnel lining.
TBM locomotive driver
The tunnel locomotive driver is responsible for the efficient movement of materials and personnel along the tunnel railway, a logistics function that is essential to maintaining the production rhythm of the TBM. Our locomotive drivers are experienced in operating diesel and electric locomotives in underground construction environments, managing the transport of segment wagons, muck trains, utility wagons and personnel carriers. They work under strict safety protocols and coordinate closely with the TBM crew and site management to ensure continuous and reliable supply to the tunnel face.
TBM erector operator
The erector operator is responsible for one of the most technically demanding tasks in tunnel construction: the precise placement of precast concrete segments to form the tunnel lining ring. Our erector operators have extensive experience working with all major erector types and TBM configurations, and are capable of maintaining high ring-building speeds without compromising structural accuracy or safety. Their work is fundamental to the quality and watertightness of the finished tunnel, making this one of the most critical roles in any TBM crew.
TBM conveyor belt operator
The conveyor belt system is the primary muck removal infrastructure in most TBM projects, and its reliable operation is essential to maintaining continuous excavation. Our TBM conveyor belt operators are experienced in the operation, monitoring and first-level maintenance of belt conveyor systems in underground construction environments, including belt tensioning, splice management, drive unit checks and the coordination of muck flow from the TBM to the surface or muck handling facility. Their role is central to the overall production efficiency of the tunneling works.
Complete TBM staff and support crews
Beyond specialist operators and technicians, every TBM project requires a reliable team of support workers to keep operations running smoothly around the clock. Our TBM staff covers all ancillary roles in underground construction: tunnel service personnel, logistics workers, segment handlers, grout plant operators, survey assistants and general underground workers. Whether you need to fill a single gap in your crew or build a complete support team from scratch, we can supply experienced, safety-trained TBM staff at short notice for projects anywhere in the world.
Trusted by leading infrastructure companies
Our tunnel workers have contributed to major construction projects across Europe, Asia and Latin America. Here is what employers and project managers say about working with Tunneling GLT.
We needed two experienced TBM operators and an erector operator at very short notice for a metro tunneling project. Tunneling GLT delivered certified professionals within days. Their operators took control of the machine immediately and maintained our advance rates throughout the contract.
A hydraulic failure mid-project put our schedule at serious risk. Tunneling GLT supplied a TBM hydraulic mechanic and a TBM electrician within 48 hours. Both professionals diagnosed and resolved the issue quickly and remained on site for the full project duration. Their technical knowledge was outstanding.
For a large-scale infrastructure tunnel we needed to staff the entire logistics chain — locomotive drivers, conveyor belt operators and general TBM support personnel. Tunneling GLT built that team for us from scratch. Three projects later, they remain our first call for underground staffing.
Your project deserves the best team underground
Whether you are looking to hire qualified tunnel workers or are a professional seeking your next TBM assignment, Tunneling GLT is your specialist partner in underground construction staffing. Tell us about your project and we will find the right people for the job.
Some related services
Everything you need to know about our tunnel workers and TBM staffing services.
What types of tunnel workers do you supply?
We provide a full range of certified tunnel workers for TBM construction projects: TBM operators with experience in EPB, slurry and hard rock machines; erector operators specialised in segment placement and tunnel lining; foremen responsible for managing site operations; TBM electricians and electromechanics; TBM hydraulic mechanics and general mechanics; crane operators; conveyor belt operators; locomotive drivers; and logistical support personnel. Whether your project requires a single specialist or a complete, integrated crew, we can identify and deploy the right professionals to match your specific technical requirements and project timescales.
Do your tunnel workers take on international assignments?
Yes. Our tunnel workers are available for projects across Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Asia. We have extensive experience coordinating international deployments, including management of employment contracts, work permits, documentation and travel logistics. Our team handles the operational complexity so that you can focus entirely on your project’s construction milestones.
Can you provide tunnel workers for both short and long-term contracts?
Absolutely. We supply tunnel construction workers for assignments of any duration — from urgent, short-notice replacements to full long-term crew contracts spanning months or years. Our flexible staffing model allows project managers to scale the workforce up or down as site conditions and project phases evolve, ensuring you always have the right number of qualified workers underground when you need them.
What job training and certifications do your professionals hold?
All tunnel workers in our network hold the certifications required by their specific role and the regulations of the country where the project is located. This typically includes TBM operation licences, safety training (confined space, underground environment), first aid, and equipment-specific qualifications. We verify all credentials during our selection process and can provide documentation upon request. Where a project requires additional or country-specific training, we work with the client to coordinate the necessary preparation before deployment.
What does the career path look like for a tunnel construction worker?
A career in tunnel construction offers a structured and rewarding progression. Entry-level positions typically include service personnel and support roles. From there, workers can advance to roles such as locomotive driver, conveyor belt operator or crane operator before progressing to TBM mechanic, TBM electrician or erector operator. The most experienced professionals often move into senior TBM operator positions or take on site foreman and management responsibilities. Throughout this career path, continuous job training and accumulated project experience are the key drivers of advancement.
How do you ensure the quality and safety compliance of your tunnel workers?
Salaries in the tunneling industry vary depending on the role, level of experience, project location and contract type. As a general guide, specialised roles such as TBM operators, TBM electricians and TBM hydraulic mechanics command significantly higher compensation than entry-level positions, reflecting the technical skills, safety responsibilities and working conditions involved. International assignments frequently include additional benefits such as accommodation, travel allowances and project bonuses. We discuss remuneration transparently with both our clients and the professionals we place to ensure a fair and competitive agreement for all parties.