Tunnelling Engineer: TBM​/SCL​/Microtunnelling Design

Arup’s purpose, shared values and collaborative approach has set us apart for over 75 years, guiding how we shape a better world.

You will be joining Arup’s UK Tunnelling team, working across a wide range of infrastructure, energy and underground engineering projects. Our team applies advanced analysis techniques alongside practical design, construction and operational experience to support clients throughout the full project lifecycle — from planning and feasibility through to delivery, operation, refurbishment and upgrade of tunnel infrastructure.

The UK tunnelling team operates as one integrated team across hubs in Birmingham, London and Manchester/Leeds, working closely with our geotechnical and structural engineering colleagues. You will be based in our central Birmingham office, a modern and collaborative workspace.

Watch this short clip to discover how Arup are shaping a better world and how you could be a part of it!

Climate change
• Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. Human activities have been the main driver of climate change, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas.

We are expanding our tunnelling capability to meet growing demand from our extensive client base, particularly across the infrastructure and energy sectors. Current areas of work include rail and highway tunnels, water and waste infrastructure, mining, carbon capture and storage, renewable energy (including hydropower), trenchless technologies and micro‑tunnelling.

We are seeking a Tunnel Engineer to contribute to the design and delivery of tunnel and underground projects across the UK and internationally. In this role, you will support the development of technically robust and sustainable tunnelling solutions, working across different tunnelling methodologies such as TBM, sprayed concrete lining (SCL) and micro‑tunnelling.

You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, apply relevant design standards and analytical tools, and contribute to high‑quality technical outputs including reports and design documentation. There will also be opportunities to support projects across different stages of the lifecycle and to undertake short project assignments within the UK and overseas.

At Arup, you belong to an extraordinary collective – in which we encourage individuality to thrive. Our strength comes from how we respect, share and connect our diverse experiences, perspectives and ideas.

You will have the opportunity to do socially useful work that has meaning – to Arup, to your career, to our members and to the clients and communities we serve.

Is this role right for you?

We are keen to hear from engineers who are motivated by technical challenge, collaboration and continuous learning. You are likely to bring:

· A Master’s degree is required, with progress towards Chartered status

· Experience contributing to the design or construction of tunnels, with exposure to a range of tunnelling methodologies such as TBM, SCL or micro‑tunnelling

· Familiarity with relevant design standards and codes, including Eurocodes, BTS and/or ACI

· Experience using analytical software such as PLAXIS, FLAC or similar tools

· Strong report‑writing skills, with the ability to produce accurate, well‑structured technical outputs

You will also bring a collaborative approach, strong communication skills, and the ability to apply existing knowledge in new and evolving contexts. Experience with design automation or coding (for example Python), an understanding of CDM Regulations, and a willingness to travel on short assignments will be advantageous.

This role does not meet the criteria for visa sponsorship under the UK immigration system. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Not ready to apply just yet or have some questions? Contact Drina Zupanovic at D - Please note, to ensure we remain GDPR compliant do not send your CV directly to us via this email.

What we offer you

At Arup, we care about each member’s success, so we can grow together.

Guided by our values, we provide an attractive total reward package that recognises the contribution of each of our members to our shared success.…