Tunnelling SpecialistLocation: Dublin (Hybrid Working)Contract Duration: 24 MonthsStart Date: Q2 2026Working Hours: Monday-Friday, 08:30-17:00IR35 Status: Inside IR35 (for UK-based workers)Spencer Ogden is seeking an experienced Tunnelling Specialist to support a major infrastructure programme within a leading Engineering & Major Projects division. This is a long-term contract opportunity focused on providing expert tunnelling and geotechnical oversight during early-stage project development and engagement phases.This role will play a critical part in reviewing and challenging tunnelling proposals, ensuring technical robustness, constructability, risk identification, and organisational readiness for large-scale underground infrastructure delivery.The RoleThe Tunnelling Specialist will provide focused expertise during formal pre-development and early engagement processes for proposed tunnelling works associated with future infrastructure projects.You will:Review and interrogate tunnelling documentation including feasibility studies, route assessments, methodologies, and programme assumptionsAssess constructability, engineering feasibility, and delivery riskProvide clear technical feedback to ensure operational and engineering requirements are reflected in early-stage proposalsCoordinate multi-disciplinary stakeholder input (engineering, delivery, civil, environmental, geotechnical)Identify risks, constraints, and information gapsSupport organisational readiness for a first major tunnelling projectDevelop practical recommendations for future tunnelling programme deliveryPrepare concise technical reports and briefing documents to support internal decision-makingYou will report into senior delivery leadership and work closely with Project Managers, Designers, Team Leaders, and subject-matter experts.Essential Experience & SkillsMinimum 10 years' tunnelling experience, ideally within utilities or major infrastructureExtensive experience across multiple project phases (feasibility through to delivery)Strong knowledge of soil and rock mechanics and ground behaviourExpertise in:Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs)Cut-and-cover constructionMicro-tunnelling systemsExperience with dewatering, grouting, and waterproofing in complex ground conditionsAbility to interpret and analyse ground movement and structural monitoring systemsStrong capability reviewing and constructively challenging third-party tunnelling proposalsExcellent stakeholder engagement and coordination skillsStrategic mindset with the ability to identify readiness requirements, risks, and delivery gapsDesirable ExperienceKnowledge of underground safety regulationsGeohazard identification (faults, inflows, settlement risk)Shaft sinking and underpinning methodsGround behaviour assessment under excavationExperience working in structured client-side review environmentsMulti-disciplinary leadership experienceFamiliarity with Irish regulatory and consent processesQualificationsLevel 8 Engineering Degree (or equivalent)Chartered Engineer status with Engineers Ireland or an internationally recognised equivalent bodyLocation & Working ArrangementThe role is Dublin-based with hybrid working (minimum 2 days per week onsite, subject to review).The primary office location is currently at Dublin Airport until March 2026, moving to Grand Canal Quay, Dublin 2 from April 2026.Travel and accommodation expenses for attending the base office will not be reimbursed.Pre-approved business travel expenses outside the normal place of work will be reimbursed via the contractor's agency.Health & Safety RequirementsAll contractors must comply with applicable Health & Safety regulations.Required:Full PPE (including Arc-resistant where required)Steel toe boots compliant with S3 EN ISO 20345Valid SafePassManual handling certificationUnbranded hard hat and ear defenders will be provided where required. Safety boots, gloves, and eye protection are to be supplied by the contractor.Equipment RequirementsThe successful candidate must provide their own:Mobile phoneLaptopReliable internet connectionIf you are a senior tunnelling or geotechnical professional looking to play a key role in shaping a major underground infrastructure programme, we would welcome your application.