Industrial Placement Student - Tunnelling (Summer 2027)

AECOM offers a comprehensive tunnelling and underground structures consultancy service to clients seeking cost-effective, buildable, and state-of-the-art tunnel projects. Our team has proven global design experience across a wide range of tunnels in challenging geological conditions. We have successfully delivered sustainable projects in some of the world’s most congested cities, working collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams. Our current projects include London Power Tunnels, Elephant & Castle Station upgrade, Pumped Hydro Storage schemes, Snowdonia Power Tunnels, and Thames Tideway Sewer. We also work for Network Rail, Water Authorities, and the UK’s Geological Disposal Facility for radioactive waste. For example, on London Power Tunnels 2, AECOM was engaged to carry out the detailed design of eight deep shafts (around 15m diameter and 50m deep) in congested areas of London, connected by a 33km tunnel. The shafts were constructed in challenging ground conditions using techniques including secant piling, sprayed concrete linings, and segmental linings. Our engineers worked as part of a large international team to deliver this high-profile project and continue to pursue similar schemes. As an Industrial Placement student in our Tunnelling & Underground Structures team, you will gain hands-on experience across a variety of technical and project activities, such as: - Assisting with tunnel, shaft, and cavern designs using a variety of construction methods. - Supporting feasibility studies and preliminary/detailed design tasks, with a focus on safe and constructible solutions. - Reviewing and analysing technical data to support engineering decisions. - Contributing to problem-solving and developing design solutions under supervision. - Participating in site visits to observe construction methods or gather project information. - Collaborating with engineers and other professionals across AECOM disciplines to deliver integrated solutions. - Applying health and safety practices during site and office-based tasks, while considering sustainability principles. - Currently pursuing a degree in Civil or Civil & Structural Engineering, with an expected 2:1 classification (or equivalent) or higher. - Strong interest in tunnelling and underground structures, with a passion for developing a career in this field. - Some prior exposure to an engineering environment (e.g., placement, shadowing, or relevant coursework) is desirable. - Interest in software-based engineering and design (e.g., CAD, 3D modelling, or finite element software). - Creative, practical, adaptable, and enthusiastic mindset. - Strong attention to detail, methodical thinking, and problem-solving ability. - Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. - Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with CAD or engineering design software is an advantage but not essential. - Willingness to travel for project-related site visits as required.