Head of Shafts (Civils)

Advance Training & Recruitment Services; Bristol; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent engineering firm in the UK is seeking a Shafts (Civils) Lead to oversee design and construction projects within the Tunnels and Shaft Delivery Unit. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in heavy civil engineering, particularly in tunneling and underground construction. Responsibilities include project oversight, budgeting, strategic planning, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. This role demands strong leadership, communication skills, and a commitment to quality, offering an opportunity to lead large-scale construction initiatives.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in heavy civil engineering, tunneling, and underground construction.
• Experience in managing large-scale construction projects.
• Strong knowledge of civils construction and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee design and construction of shafts and associated works.
• Lead project teams for scheduling and execution of shaft activities.
• Monitor project progress, budgets, and quality control.

Skills

Project Management

Leadership

Communication

Strategic Planning

Safety Compliance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or Mining Engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Project Management Software

Job description

Job Introduction

The Shafts (Civils) Lead is a key leadership role within the Tunnels and Shaft Delivery Unit. Responsible for overseeing the design, construction, temporary works, shaft sinking, SCL works, secondary linings for TIDs, cross passages, tunnel connections and all associated FRC works related to the shafts and headhouses stairs coordinating with the TBMs and tunnelling activities in the DU’s scope. This position requires a combination of technical expertise, project management skills, and leadership abilities and supply chain management and relationships to ensure that assets are completed on time, within budget, to the highest quality standards and fully assured to the requirements of project delivery.

The Shafts (Civils) Lead plays a critical role in ensuring the successful delivery of the projects meeting client expectations and organizational objectives. This position requires a dynamic individual with a combination of technical expertise, leadership abilities, and a commitment to excellence.

Main Responsibilities

Key Strengths

1. Strategic Planning:
   • Develop strategic plans for shaft construction projects, aligning with overall project objectives and organizational goals.
   • Identify opportunities for innovation and improvement in shaft construction methodologies, equipment, and processes.
2. Project Management:
   • Lead project teams in the planning, scheduling, and execution of shaft construction activities.
   • Monitor project progress, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
   • Coordinate with other departments and stakeholders to resolve issues and mitigate risks.
   • Strong Commercial awareness
3. Design and Engineering:
   • Oversee the development of shaft designs, temporary works, including structural integrity, ventilation, and access requirements.
   • Review engineering drawings and specifications to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and project requirements.
   • Collaborate with design consultants and contractors to optimize shaft designs for efficiency and safety.
4. Construction Oversight:
   • Supervise the construction of shafts, including excavation, lining installation, and associated works.
   • Implement quality control measures to ensure construction meets specifications and quality standards.
   • Manage contractor relationships and performance, enforcing contractual obligations as necessary.
5. Safety and Compliance:
   • Champion a culture of safety within the organization, promoting best practices and compliance with relevant regulations.
   • Conduct regular safety inspections and audits to identify hazards and implement corrective actions.
   • Ensure environmental compliance throughout the shaft construction process, minimizing impact on surrounding ecosystems.
6. Cost Management:
   • Develop and manage project budgets for shaft construction activities, tracking expenditures and controlling costs.
   • Identify cost-saving opportunities and efficiencies without compromising safety or quality.
7. Stakeholder Relations:
   • Liaise with project stakeholders, including clients, government agencies, and local communities, to address concerns and maintain positive relationships.
   • Communicate project progress, challenges, and milestones effectively to stakeholders, ensuring transparency and alignment of expectations.

The Ideal Candidate

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Mining Engineering, (advanced degree preferred) or suitable experience in field.
• Extensive experience (typically 10+ years) in heavy civil engineering, tunneling and underground construction, with a focus on shafts.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale construction projects, preferably in tunneling or heavy civil engineering.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with experience interacting with diverse stakeholders.
• In‑depth knowledge of civils construction, tunneling techniques, equipment, and materials, as well as relevant safety and environmental regulations.
• Proficiency in project management tools and software for scheduling, budgeting, and reporting.

This job description serves as a general outline and may vary depending on the specific requirements of the organization and the nature of the tunneling projects involved.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.