Microtunnel Bore Machine (MTBM) Operator

The Tunneling Company delivers specialized trenchless construction solutions across Western Canada, including Microtunneling, Guided Boring, Down-the-Hole Hammer, Auger Boring, Pipe Ramming, Pipe Jacking, and other underground infrastructure installation methods. We manage projects from planning and design through construction, providing innovative solutions for complex underground crossings.

We are currently seeking an experienced and skilled Microtunnel Bore Machine Operator to join our team. This position will be mainly field based and is responsible for operating and maintaining microtunneling equipment, ensuring accurate tunnel alignment, and supervising field crews during trenchless construction projects across Canada. This role requires extensive MTBM experience, strong technical and safety knowledge, and the ability to lead tunneling operations in challenging ground conditions. 

Responsibilities and Duties:  

1. Operating MTBM within manufacturer specifications. 


2. Maintaining horizontal and vertical tunnel design alignment. 


3. MTBM Pre Launch Check list. 


4. MTBM commissioning. 


5. Assist in crossing tooling selection and site layouts. 


6. Assist the Operations Manager in preparation for mobilization, to ensure that all equipment is operationally ready, and that all equipment/tools are fully equipped and stocked. 


7. Perform and assist in loading of equipment for mobilization. 


8. Assist the crew in spotting equipment as directed and supervise crew off-loading equipment from tractor/trailer units and delivery vehicles as directed and/or required.  


9. Set-up the tunneling systems including generators, tunneling equipment, slurry separation equipment, etc. 


10. Supervise the crew in all equipment set-up, pre-start system check, start-up, shut-down, and routine maintenance activities.  


11. Supervise the crew in all equipment troubleshooting and repair activities as directed and/or required.  


12. Operate the tunneling equipment and supervise the preparation, addition, and removal of all tunnel service lines and jacking pipe.   


13. Supervise the Lead Hand in operation of the tunneling equipment. 


14. Monitor, record and report all equipment operating parameters, tunneling parameters, inventory levels and other data as required on the Daily Construction Logs.  


15. Directly supervise all energy isolation activities (lock-out/tag-out) and all confined space entry activities.  


16. Conduct crew change meetings – when required.  


17. Inspect rigging and hoisting equipment before use and record on SiteDocs.  


18. Disassemble (rig-out) as required, stow and otherwise prepare the equipment for de-mobilization.  


19. Supervise the crew in equipment disassembly (rig-out) of the tunneling spread and supplementary equipment as directed and/or required.  


20. Perform and assist in unloading of equipment for de-mobilization. 


21. Maintain worksite & equipment, ensure material organization and cleanliness. 


22. Participate in safety meetings, completing FLHA’s and Hazard ID’s. 

Experience and Training Requirements  

• 5+ years of MTBM operating experience 


• Herrenknecht D-mode Machine Experience  


• Microtunneling single drive lengths over 1.2km with compound curves in changing ground conditions 


• Herrenknecht AVN2000-AVN3000 Machine sizes  


• Hard rock Experience over 180mpa  


• Jack Control and VMT Tunis systems 


• Valid Class 5 Driver Licence with a clean drivers abstract & reliable transportation 


• Successfully pass a pre-employment drug & alcohol test prior to employment 


• Successfully complete a 50lbs, Level II Health Assessment 

Asset  

• Safety tickets including but not limited to Standard First Aid CPR-C & AED, Rigging Training, WHMIS 2015 & Ground Disturbance  

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities  

• Customer focused with a team player attitude 


• Proven ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment 


• Attention to detail, mechanically inclined and strong problem-solving skills 


• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written 

Additional Details

• Starting Wage: $65.00 per hour


• Benefits: Comprehensive Medical and Dental Coverage


• Schedule: 21 Days On / 7 Days Off Rotation


• Shift Length: 8–12 Hour Shifts


• Overtime: Overtime and weekend work available


• Shift Types: Day and Night Shifts Required

We would like to thank you for your interest in The Tunneling Company. All applications and resumes will be reviewed, those selected for an interview will be contacted to move forward through the recruitment process.