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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design risk management and ensure safety in construction projects.
- Company: Join a top multi-disciplinary consultancy known for impactful solutions in various sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, excellent benefits, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in safety and design while mentoring others in a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: NEBOSH Construction Certificate and experience as Principal Designer under CDM 2015 required.
- Other info: Work in vibrant city locations with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
Senior CDM Principal Designer
Location: Reading | Birmingham | Bristol | Leeds
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience + excellent benefits
Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Industry: Construction Health & Safety | Design Risk Management
Drive Safety. Influence Design. Lead Projects.
We’re working in partnership with a leading multi-disciplinary consultancy who are expanding their Construction Health and Safety team across multiple UK locations. They are known for delivering high-impact, compliant solutions to clients in sectors ranging from healthcare and education to commercial, residential and infrastructure.
As a Senior CDM Principal Designer, you’ll take the lead in delivering and managing Principal Designer duties under the CDM 2015 Regulations, ensuring that safety is built into the design process from day one. You’ll join a growing team of specialists with the technical capability and sector variety to challenge and stretch you.
What you’ll be doing
Act as Principal Designer on a range of construction projects, from residential schemes to high-profile public sector works.
Lead design risk management across multidisciplinary teams identifying, mitigating, and managing foreseeable risks.
Engage early with clients and stakeholders to influence project safety strategy from concept to completion.
Provide expert CDM and Health & Safety guidance to clients, ensuring compliance and best practice.
Collate and review pre-construction information and manage the Health and Safety File.
Run design risk review meetings and champion safer design solutions.
Mentor junior colleagues and support their professional development.
Conduct site inspections to monitor CDM and regulatory compliance.
Assist with business development, bid writing, and client presentations.
What you’ll need to succeed
Essential:
- NEBOSH Construction Certificate (or higher-level H&S qualification).
- Proven experience as Principal Designer under CDM 2015, particularly on medium to large-scale projects.
- Excellent understanding of CDM regulations, construction processes, and risk management.
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Confidence in producing and managing CDM documentation including pre-construction info, design risk registers, and Health & Safety files.
- Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and manage time effectively.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and collaboration tools like Teams.
- Ability to live and work in the UK and can commute to one of their city centre locations and sites daily.
Desirable:
- Background in healthcare, industrial, or complex/high-tech environments.
- Familiarity with Common Data Environments (CDEs).
- Membership of relevant professional bodies such as IOSH, APS, RIBA, CIOB, or CABE.
Why apply through mustard?
mustard jobs is a leading B-Corp certified recruitment agency working exclusively in the built environment. We partner with some of the UK’s most forward-thinking architecture, design, and construction firms.
By applying through us, you’ll benefit from:
Insider knowledge of the hiring company and process
CV and interview guidance from industry specialists
Priority access to roles not always advertised elsewhere
A values-driven, ethical approach to recruitment
Support from a team who genuinely care about your field
Principal Designer employer: mustard | B Corp™
Contact Detail:
mustard | B Corp™ Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Designer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the construction health and safety sector. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meet-ups to connect with potential colleagues and employers. Building relationships can often lead to job opportunities that aren't publicly advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and regulations in CDM and health and safety. Staying updated will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the field during interviews and discussions with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects where you've successfully managed design risk and compliance. Having concrete examples ready will showcase your experience and problem-solving skills, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Engage with relevant professional bodies like IOSH or APS. Membership can provide access to resources, networking opportunities, and credibility in your field, which can be beneficial when applying for the Principal Designer role.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Designer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience as a Principal Designer, particularly under CDM 2015. Emphasise your understanding of construction processes and risk management, and include any relevant qualifications like the NEBOSH Construction Certificate.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for health and safety in design. Mention specific projects where you've successfully managed design risks and how you can contribute to the consultancy's goals.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on your experience with multidisciplinary teams and your ability to engage with clients and stakeholders. Provide examples of how you've influenced project safety strategies in past roles.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication is essential for this role, ensure your application reflects your ability to convey complex information clearly. You might want to mention any experience mentoring junior colleagues or leading meetings.
How to prepare for a job interview at mustard | B Corp™
✨Showcase Your CDM Knowledge
Make sure to demonstrate your understanding of the CDM 2015 regulations during the interview. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied these regulations in past projects and how you ensure safety is integrated into the design process from the outset.
✨Highlight Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Since the role involves engaging with clients and stakeholders, share specific examples of how you've successfully influenced project safety strategies. Discuss your communication style and how you build relationships to ensure compliance and best practices.
✨Prepare for Design Risk Management Scenarios
Expect questions related to design risk management. Prepare to discuss how you've identified, mitigated, and managed foreseeable risks in previous projects. Use real-life examples to illustrate your problem-solving skills and proactive approach.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Mentoring Experience
As a Principal Designer, you'll be expected to mentor junior colleagues. Share your experiences in leading teams and supporting the professional development of others. Highlight any specific mentoring successes or initiatives you've implemented.
