Responsible for the implementation of the machine’s hydraulic systems
Overview
As a hydraulics engineer, you’ll implement, maintain, and operate the hydraulics of the award-winning Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), Groundhog Beta. These systems include our Hydraulic Pump Unit (HPU), Hydraulic Hoses, Valve Block, hydraulic cylinders in our propulsion and steering system, and our hydraulic motors powering the Erosion and Tunnel Lining subsystems. You will work closely with all subteams and ensure the safety and reliability of their hydraulic systems. In addition, you will work closely with our hydraulics sponsor, Hagenbuch AG, to develop concepts for a new HPU, valve block, and propulsion subsystem.
The following requirements outline the optimal parameters we seek for this position. However, all of them can be learned or extended throughout your experience within the team. We encourage you to submit your application even if you don’t think you meet all the criteria. Your reliability, commitment, and passion for innovation are the most valuable traits we look for.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Maintaining the hydraulic systems of the TBM
- Developing and implementing new concepts for our hydraulic system as described above
- Preparing hydraulics for tests and ensuring the safety of all attendees
- Working in a dynamic team environment with a focus on solving problems
- Ability to operate the hydraulic systems during events, tests, and at the competition
- Work with third-party partners to find solutions and produce parts
- Attend weekly meetings and working sessions
- Actively contribute to building the association’s culture
Qualifications & Skills:
- Communication and organizational skills
- High availability, commitment to the association’s cause
- Aptitude and self-initiative for rapid decision-making and problem-solving
- Nurture a passion for tunneling and scientific research
- Able to maintain calm when faced with difficulties
- Attention to detail
- Basic knowledge of hydraulic systems
- Studying Mechanical or Process Engineering (or equivalent background)
- Knowledge in the production of components (e.g., welding, milling, laser cutting)
- Having experience in manual work and being handy with tools is recommended
- Prepared to work professionally with industry partners and willing to adhere to the team’s standards
- Fluent in English
Benefits
- You will be able to meet several other skilled and highly motivated individuals and build long-lasting relationships that can endure outside of the association
- You will get the opportunity to meet and exchange with experts in the industry
- You will get the opportunity to participate in Elon Musk’s competition, the Not-A-Boring-Competition, in the Spring of 2025 and exchange with engineers from The Boring Company
- You will learn about TBM hydraulic systems, get some experience in development, apply your field-specific knowledge, work with various tools and equipment, and get the opportunity to extend your contribution to a research thesis during your studies
- You will get the opportunity to meet and exchange with experts from various industries
Workload
The expected workload is estimated to be around 3 to 12 hours per week, with approximately one or two hours dedicated to meetings and the rest to individual or group work. Depending on the week, you will either attend the team’s working session for around three to five hours or dedicate time at your discretion to designing.
Workplaces
We provide an office and workplace in Zürich at ETH’s Student Project House (SPH) and EMPA in Dübendorf. From day one, you can work independently and take responsibility for your duties and deliverables. During weekly meetings and team working sessions, you must physically attend at SPH or justify your absence to your team lead.
Application
Apply to the team by sending an email to apply@swisslooptunneling.ch or by filling out the form on our website https://swisslooptunneling.ch/join-us/ containing the following information:
- Your CV
- Motivation for applying and position of interest
Please note that SLT is a voluntary research organization and does not offer any paid employment.