Graduate Tunneling Engineer (Available 2027)

About the role

As a Graduate Tunneling Engineer at Arup, you will carry out empirical, analytical, and numerical analyses for tunnel and shaft design, interpret results, characterize ground conditions, prepare design sketches, use specialized software, conduct geological mapping, apply rock and soil mechanics, perform structural analysis of linings, develop automation workflows, and work in multidisciplinary teams on large‑scale infrastructure projects.

Responsibilities

• Carry out empirical, analytical, and numerical analyses for tunnel and shaft design (initial support and final lining) for methods such as drill and blast, sequential excavation method, or TBM.
• Interpret and organize design results into project documentation (Technical Memos, Geotechnical Data, Interpretive or Baseline Reports, Basis of Design reports).
• Characterize and classify ground conditions for different tunnelling methods based on geotechnical information.
• Communicate design work through preparation of drawing sketches indicating support types, geometry, construction sequencing, and instrumentation.
• Use tunnel design software such as Plaxis 2D/3D, FLAC/FLAC3D, UDEC/3DEC, RocScience, or FracMan.
• Undertake geological mapping and rock mass classification on site.
• Apply rock and soil mechanics skills to assess likely failure modes and develop ground support schemes.
• Undertake linear and non‑linear structural analysis of shotcrete and concrete tunnel linings based on code requirements using first principles or structural design software (SAP, GSA).
• Make use of automation and established workflows to follow best practice; develop workflows and ideas for automation where none exist.
• Work in multidisciplinary teams for delivery of large scale infrastructure projects for transportation, water/wastewater, or mining.

Requirements

• Masters or PhD in Underground Construction/Tunneling, Civil (with a geotechnical focus), Geotechnical, Structural, Geological, or Mining Engineering.
• Sound knowledge of civil engineering fundamentals, soil and rock mechanics, and tunneling methods.
• Good time‑management habits, ability to multi‑task, ability to sustain focus on long tasks.
• Ability to communicate thoughts and ideas in an accessible way – distill design tasks and solutions into concise text and presentation slides.
• Attitude of taking initiative, enthusiasm, eagerness to learn, teamwork, creativity.
• Proficient in developing code and common coding languages.
• Proficient in geotechnical engineering analysis software (preferred).
• Full working rights in the country of application.
• No more than 12 months of full‑time experience in a comparable role.
• Recently graduated, or on track to graduate, from your most recent degree related to the role before employment starts.
• Core attributes: passion for sustainable development (Changemakers), critical thinking and embracing new ideas (Innovative minds), growth mindset (Growth seekers), readiness to take on any challenge (Adaptable adventurers).

Benefits

• Comprehensive and valuable benefits program providing health and welfare security and paid time off for rest and renewal.
• Global Profit Share Plan (paid bi‑annually) allowing you to share in the firm’s financial success.
• 401(k) plan with up to 10% company match to help you save for the future.
• Flexible working arrangements supporting diversity and wellbeing.
• Career belonging, growth, and thriving through learning opportunities and the ability to have impact through your work.
• Ownership in trust on behalf of members, giving freedom to set direction and choose purpose‑aligned work.

Pay

The good‑faith base salary hiring range for this role if performed in Los Angeles is $76,500 to $83,500 per year. This range is commensurate with experience, educational background, and skill level; benefits are not included in the base salary.