| Cover | Aug. 18, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 18, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Tutor Perini Corporation |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | MA |
| Entity File Number | 1-6314 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 04-1717070 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 15901 Olden Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Sylmar |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 91342-1093 |
| City Area Code | (818) |
| Local Phone Number | 362-8391 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $1.00 par value |
| Trading Symbol | TPC |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000077543 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
