Just some of your
CAREER choices
Discover a career in
the civil industry as a…
TUNNEL
CONSTRUCTOR
Ground preparator works, tunnel construction, and then maintenance after build: these are the key roles of this skilled and in demand role.
THE ROLE
You will control tunnelling machines to build tunnels used for everything big and small. The role is quite technical, very safe, and very exciting!
You will not work in an office, but you will spend a bit of time underground.
THE CAREER
WHERE WILL YOU WORK?
Tunnels are used for a lot of purposes these days. Many Tunnel Constructors specialise in one area and travel following that work type.
WHO WILL EMPLOY YOU?
Large companies build tunnels, but often the team they employ are specialist contractors. You could work for large or small companies. In your later years you could move into design with either companies or Government.
HOW SAFE IS IT?
Modern tunnelling equipment and conditions are extremely safe.
IS THE WORK TECHNICALLY HARD?
It definitely becomes challenging. You will eventually use very special equipment, as tunnelling uses leading technology. Don’t worry though, as your employer will train you on the job in each task.
IS THE WORK PHYSICALLY HARD?
Modern tunnelling requires you to be fit, but not overly.
Just some of your
CAREER choices
THE TRAINING
IS THERE TRAINING PROVIDED AND WILL IT COST YOU?
Your employer will train you and pay for it. If you want to get a qualification it willusually be paid for by the employer and the Government.
IS THERE A QUALIFICATION?
Yes. It’s not essential, but very desirable. You can receive a Nationally Recognised Qualification such as a Certificate III in Civil Construction (Tunnel Construction), but you will need to be employed to gain work experience.
CAN YOU GET A TRADE?
Yes, in most States ‘Civil Tunnel Construction’ is a Trade.
THE REQUIREMENTS
WHO IS SUITED TO THE JOB?
People who enjoy practical tasks and are focused on attention to detail. You have to be
HOW OLD DO YOU HAVE TO BE TO START?
You have to be at least 14 years of age.
HOW OLD DO YOU HAVE TO BE TO START?
There are NO minimum score results, or
ARE THERE ANY PREREQUISITES TO STARTING?
No. Your employer will even pay for your safety gear!
THE FUTURE
IS THERE A FUTURE CAREER?
Yes! This is a great starting point and you will have lots of options. You could become a specialist plant operator, a manager, set up your own business, or even go on to university and become an engineer. Many senior people and business owners in the industry started out as plant operators.
WILL YOU HAVE TO MOVE AROUND?
No. It’s your call when you choose between jobs as some employers have projects in different locations. If you do move, your expenses are often covered by the employer.
CAN YOU GET MORE SKILLS LATER?
Yes, if you want to. There are Certificate IVs, Diplomas and management courses you can do. It’s your call what you do and how far you go!
CAN YOU GO TO UNI ONE DAY?
Yes. The practical skills you learn will be very useful for engineering-related courses.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
Many join the tunnelling world as a Site Hand on a tunnel project to learn the ropes and see whether they are ok with the type of work. They then commence on a tunnel team. It’s also possible to start as an Apprentice.
“What a job… I get paid lots to have fun!
I love this industry and the people in it”
Kaylene – Wife. Mum of two. Plant Operator for 10 years.