Principal Designer

Responsibilities

• Fulfil the Principal Designer role in line with CDM Regulations.
• Plan, manage, and coordinate health and safety during pre‑construction.
• Identify and manage design‑related risks through effective risk management.
• Chair HAZID reviews and ensure mitigation actions are implemented.
• Coordinate with the Principal Contractor to maintain CDM compliance during construction.
• Ensure designers meet their CDM duties and collaborate with the project team.
• Advise on client CDM responsibilities.
• Engage with contractors and stakeholders to promote safe design and delivery.
• Maintain compliance records and documentation.
• Develop internal CDM procedures, tools, and templates.
• Provide safety‑in‑design guidance and training.
• Operate as a billable resource and support continuous improvement in safety and compliance.

Qualifications & Experience

• Relevant degree or equivalent experience.
• Health & Safety qualification (e.g. NEBOSH or equivalent).
• Strong knowledge of CDM Regulations 2015.
• Experience acting as Principal Designer or in a similar CDM role.
• Background in design risk management and construction safety.
• Experience working within multi‑disciplinary teams.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of UK health and safety legislation.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Commercial awareness and experience delivering billable services.
• Proactive, detail‑focused, and solution‑oriented approach.
• Ability to promote a positive safety culture.

Desirable

• Chartered membership of a relevant professional body.
• Experience delivering health and safety training or mentoring.
• Experience in a client‑facing consultancy environment.