TBM Tunnel Superintendent

About the role

SMEC, acting as professional services consultant for the design and construction supervision of the Polihali Transfer Tunnel (Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase II), is recruiting a Tunnel Superintendent. The tunnel connects the new Polihali Dam with the Katse Reservoir and runs through the Katse or Polihali tunnel sites in the Lesotho Highlands. The Superintendent reports to the two Resident Engineers and Chief Resident Engineer.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the TBM inspectorate and give technical guidance and training to the engineers team, working closely with the contractor's TBM operations team.
• Monitor TBM operating parameters such as thrust, torque and penetration rate, recommend adjustments according to geology, and liaise with senior geotechnical staff on ground conditions.
• Inspect TBM construction activities, progress, workmanship and materials against contract documents, drawings and specifications, and raise NCRs as required.
• Record and monitor TBM downtime, check drawings and plans, and communicate discrepancies on the works.
• Ensure Toolbox Talks, DSTIs and task-based risk assessments are conducted and attended, and review daily diaries, inspection records and photographs.
• Analyse progress and production, recommend improvements to safety, quality and production, call for material testing, and support the production of redline drawings for As-Built Drawings.
• Review contract drawings, method statements, safe work procedures and plans, and note unsafe acts.

Required profile

• Minimum 20 years of experience in TBM tunnel construction, including at least 15 years as a Tunnel Superintendent and 5 years in hard rock tunnelling with fully-shielded TBMs (single or double shield) and bolted, gasketed precast concrete segmental lining.
• Experience in tunnels of similar size (5-metre diameter) and length (about 17 km each) using two TBMs.
• Fluent reading, writing and speaking of English and ability to work in a multi-cultural environment.
• BSc/BEng or B.Tech or National Diploma in Civil Engineering or similar; knowledge of water and tunnelling is an advantage.

Required skills

• Competence in tapered segmental lining installation, including ring build quality, annular grouting and segmental damage.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.