Drill and Blast Engineer - (Major Tunnel Infrastructure Project – Pittsburgh, USA)

Protecnium is an international consulting firm specializing in engineering and technical services (www.protecnium.com/en). We are currently looking for a Drill & Blast Engineer to join our team for a major tunnel infrastructure project in Pittsburgh, USA (on-site position).

-Project: Major Tunnel & Underground Infrastructure Works

-Estimated duration of the position: 48 months -In general, when the project ends, we try to place the employee in other projects to give him/her continuity.

-Summary

The Drill & Blast Engineer will support underground excavation activities, blast design coordination, production planning, and field execution of tunnelling works. The role focuses on ensuring safe, efficient, and productive excavation operations while maintaining compliance with project specifications, quality standards, and safety requirements.

-Main Responsibilities

• Support Drill & Blast operations during tunnel excavation activities.
• Coordinate blasting sequences and execution plans.
• Monitor excavation progress and production performance.
• Review geological conditions and assess their impact on excavation activities.
• Support tunnel production planning and operational coordination.
• Coordinate with survey, geotechnical, and construction teams.
• Prepare technical reports and excavation documentation.
• Monitor productivity and identify opportunities for process improvement.
• Ensure compliance with project safety standards and regulations.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to excavation performance and efficiency.
• Working hours: Monday to Friday, 9 working hours plus a 1‑hour lunch break. Depending on project needs, it may later transition to rotational shifts.
• Availability to work additional hours when required by project needs.

-Benefits

• Working for an international company currently expanding.
• 22 paid vacation days.
• Travel: Round-trip flights at the beginning and end of the project.
• Hotel: Two weeks of accommodation upon arrival if necessary.
• Vehicle provided.
• Gas provided.
• Company laptop provided.
• Company phone provided.
• Medical insurance: 50% covered for the employee.
• Visa sponsorship available if necessary.

-Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8–10 years of experience in underground construction, tunnelling, mining, or heavy civil infrastructure projects.
• Experience in Drill & Blast tunnelling operations.
• Strong understanding of blasting sequences, excavation methodologies, and tunnel production processes.
• Ability to interpret geological information and adapt excavation strategies accordingly.
• Experience coordinating multidisciplinary site teams.
• Strong technical reporting and planning skills.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations related to underground works.
• English level: C1 (Advanced).
• Local, Spanish, Mexican, or international profiles will be considered.

The description and conditions indicated here are intended to describe the general nature of the work performed by employees but do not constitute a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and general competencies required by the staff. Additionally, they do not establish an employment contract and are subject to modifications as required by the employer.

At Protecnium, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of equality, diversity, and inclusion throughout our recruitment processes. We welcome applications from talented professionals of all backgrounds, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

To ensure fairness and accessibility, we also provide reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process. Candidates requiring support are encouraged to let us know at the earliest opportunity.