Tunnel Superintendent

FCC Construction Inc.•New York, NY

77d•Onsite

About The Position

FCC Construcción is seeking a Tunnel Superintendent to join their team for the MTA’s Second Avenue Subway Project in New York, NY. This role is crucial for the $7.7B expansion project, specifically supporting the $2 billion design-build contract for Phase 2, which involves constructing two tunnels. The project is a joint venture between FCC Construction and Halmar International, bringing together expertise in large-scale infrastructure, tunneling, and urban transit. The Tunnel Superintendent will be responsible for overseeing daily tunneling operations, ensuring work is performed safely, efficiently, and according to project specifications and schedule. This field-based position requires direct coordination with various teams in challenging underground environments.

Requirements

Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in tunnel construction, with at least 10 years in a superintendent or senior supervisory role.
Minimum of 10 years of experience in mined tunnel construction using shotcrete and/or rock bolt support in similar ground conditions.
Minimum of 10 years of experience executing pressurized-face TBM tunnels in variable rock, soil, or mixed-face conditions with segmental lining.
Must hold all licenses and permits required by local agencies or applicable authorities.
Proven experience in TBM and/or SEM operations, including ground support installation, waterproofing, and lining systems.
In-depth understanding of underground construction sequencing, cycle times, and productivity tracking.
Demonstrated leadership in managing large field crews in high-risk, confined underground environments.
OSHA 30 or equivalent construction safety certification is required.
Ability to read and interpret complex tunnel design drawings, specifications, and submittals.
Familiarity with quality assurance processes, inspection protocols, and environmental compliance.
Hands-on experience with pressurized-face TBM operations, segmental lining installation, SEM excavation, or conventional drill-and-blast tunneling.
Familiarity with tunnel ground control measures, including grouting, dewatering, and pre-support techniques.
Ability to work in rotating shifts (including nights and weekends) in confined, underground spaces with exposure to dust, noise, and vibration.
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to maintain clear and organized records.
Basic understanding of instrumentation monitoring systems and tunnel safety systems (e.g., gas detection, ventilation monitoring).
Problem-solving mindset with the ability to respond to real-time field conditions and make decisions under pressure.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, mining engineering, or construction management is preferred, or equivalent field experience.

Responsibilities

Supervise and coordinate all field activities related to tunnel excavation, initial support, waterproofing, and final lining.
Manage daily construction operations for TBM, SEM, or conventional tunneling methods, ensuring alignment with project requirements.
Direct crews and subcontractors in tasks such as mucking, ventilation setup, ring installation, shotcrete application, rock bolting, and membrane installation.
Monitor ground conditions and interface with geotechnical personnel to adapt excavation and support techniques as needed.
Enforce strict adherence to safety protocols and lead daily toolbox talks, field briefings, and safety inspections.
Coordinate site logistics for material handling, utility relocations, muck disposal, and equipment operations in confined tunnel environments.
Maintain accurate daily reports, shift logs, and quantity tracking; input progress data into project management systems.
Interface with survey, quality control, and engineering teams to verify work alignment, tolerances, and compliance with design drawings.
Support resolution of constructability issues, field clashes, or deviations from the design.
Participate in shift handovers, workforce allocation planning, and schedule coordination with other project areas.
Ensure timely installation and backfilling of instrumentation as required by the monitoring program.
Collaborate with the Tunnel Construction Manager and Tunnel General Manager to address productivity goals, staffing needs, and corrective actions.
Oversee tunnel safety systems including ventilation, gas detection, and emergency egress routes.
Provide direct supervision of the excavation and support of mined tunnel excavations.
Be physically present in the tunnel during each shift to lead tunneling activities.
Responsible for executing mined tunnel excavation, installation of initial support systems, shotcrete application, and grouting operations to ensure safety, quality, and timely completion.
Implement remedial or contingency measures promptly when ground loss, water inflow, or instability occurs or is anticipated.
Ensure compliance with the Tunnel Work Plan and initiate actions when ground movement Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) are approached or exceeded, and when ground loss or instability or water inflow occurs or appears likely to occur.
Maintain thorough record keeping of tunneling activities and field conditions.
Supervise TBM excavation, segmental lining installation, and annulus grouting, and monitor instrumentation data.
Be physically present during each TBM operating shift and oversee all related activities in real time.
Coordinate with engineering teams to evaluate instrumentation data and ensure timely implementation of remedial measures if needed.