How to become a tunnelling section engineer
There are several routes to becoming a tunnelling section engineer. You could complete a university degree or college course, an apprenticeship, or apply to an employer directly.
You should explore these routes to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.
You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.
University
To become a tunnelling section engineer you will usually require a degree in a relevant subject.
You’ll usually need 2 - 3 A levels or equivalent.
College/training provider
You could study a college course to help you become a tunnelling section engineer. Relevant courses include:
- Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Civil Engineering
- Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Construction and the Built Environment.
You'll usually need 1 - 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a HNC or HND.
Apprenticeship
You could complete a civil engineering degree apprenticeship and then specialise to become a tunnelling section engineer.
You’ll need:
- 5 GCSEs (including English, maths and science) at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent
- 2 - 3 A Levels, or equivalent.
Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you’ll be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.
Work
If you have previous experience in an engineering role, you could apply directly to a construction company to gain onsite experience as a tunnelling section engineer. You might start out as an assistant to a more experienced tunnelling section engineer and progress as your abilities improve.
Work experience
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a tunnelling section engineer. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.
Skills
Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a tunnelling section engineer include:
- Knowledge of building and construction
- Excellent mathematical, IT, and analytical thinking skills
- Teamworking and communication skills
- Good attention to detail.
