The
Mechanical Superintendent (TBM) is a senior heavy civil construction leader responsible for the assembly, operation support, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) and all supporting tunneling plant and equipment. This role leads mechanical crews and subcontractors, coordinates with TBM OEMs (e.g., Herrenknecht, Robbins), manages critical spare parts and consignment packages, and ensures safe, reliable, and continuous TBM operations with minimal downtime in a high-risk underground environment.
The Mechanical Superintendent's key responsibilities are:- Lead, supervise, and participate in the maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of the TBM and all supporting tunneling plant/construction equipment.
- Oversee TBM assembly, installation, integration, commissioning support, and eventual decommissioning/demobilization.
- Develop and manage the preventative maintenance (PM) program for all TBM-related mechanical systems and equipment.
- Diagnose mechanical breakdowns in the tunnel environment, mobilize resources, and coordinate vendor/OEM support to minimize downtime.
- Serve as the mechanical lead on site by establishing and implementing best practices for workmanship, reliability, and operational performance.
- Supervise and coordinate craft mechanics, technicians, and subcontractors, ensuring safe work practices, quality, and productivity.
- Plan and schedule crew assignments, shift coverage, and resources to meet production goals and project milestones.
- Monitor attendance, timekeeping, and productivity; coach team members, support development, and address personnel issues professionally.
- Manage spare parts and tooling by developing, tracking, and maintaining inventory levels for critical TBM components.
- Coordinate with the TBM manufacturer to manage consignment parts packages and oversee utilization, replenishment, and tracking.
- Ensure strict compliance with safety, quality, and environmental standards, including LOTO and JHAs, and enforce underground safety protocols.
- Coordinate with tunneling, mechanical, and electrical/controls teams to align TBM maintenance and repairs with advance planning and construction sequencing.
- Manage operational costs, support budget objectives, and implement cost-control measures related to mechanical operations and parts procurement.
- Participate in weekly progress and schedule coordination meetings and provide updates on equipment condition, risks, and planned maintenance.
- Build and maintain strong vendor relationships to secure competitive pricing, quality materials, and reliable technical support.
EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS- Mechanical Engineering degree or equivalent technical education/experience
- 8-10+ years of hands-on mechanical experience on heavy civil infrastructure projects, with 8+ years specialized TBM experience (EPB, Slurry, Hard-Rock).
- Demonstrated experience leading mechanical teams responsible for TBM maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair in active tunneling operations.
- Strong understanding of TBM systems including hydraulics, electro-mechanical drives, slurry circuits (as applicable), backup gantry systems, conveyors, rotating equipment, and heavy equipment maintenance practices.
- Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, technical manuals, schematics, and construction plans/specifications.
- Proven ability to build and run preventative maintenance programs and manage critical spares and inventory controls.
- Strong communication and coordination skills-able to interface with OEMs, vendors, field leadership, and project stakeholders.
- Strong commitment to HSE and safe work execution in high-risk underground environments.
WORK ENVIRONMENT- Field-based role supporting active tunnel construction and TBM operations; may require rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays based on project needs.
- Exposure to confined spaces, limited lighting, noise, vibration, dust, water ingress, and variable temperatures.
- Ability to stand, walk, climb ladders/scaffolds; navigate uneven terrain; and work around heavy equipment for extended periods.
- Consistent use of PPE (hard hat, boots, eye/ear protection; respiratory protection as required).
