Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead safety compliance on exciting civil engineering projects, from concept to construction.
- Company: Join a key client focused on innovative infrastructure solutions in London & the South East.
- Benefits: Enjoy a permanent role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safety and design while collaborating with dynamic teams.
- Qualifications: NEBOSH Construction Certificate and 5 years' experience in a similar role required.
- Other info: Travel across London & the South East is part of the job.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
Are you a driven Health & Safety professional with a strong background in CDM Regulations and civil engineering design? We are looking for a Principal Designer (CDM) to join one of our key clients and take ownership of a wide range of infrastructure projects, with a strong focus on highways.
In this role, you will lead the charge in ensuring compliance with the CDM Regulations 2015, acting as the Principal Designer across all project stages – from concept to construction. You will embed yourself in design teams, chairing Design Risk Review meetings, maintaining Design Risk Registers, and applying the principles of prevention to eliminate hazards and reduce risks.
What you will be doing:
- Enact the role of Principal Designer on complex civil engineering schemes.
- Ensure compliance with CDM 2015 for both Principal Designer and Principal Contractor roles.
- Challenge all aspects of buildability, maintainability, and operability.
- Chair and document Design Risk Review meetings, ensuring clear communication of safety-critical information.
- Prepare and submit F10 notifications and monitor their validity.
- Compile and maintain Pre-Construction Information and Health & Safety Files.
- Review and advise on Construction Phase Plans for statutory compliance.
- Visit sites to support health and safety monitoring.
- Support internal procedural development and training.
What we are looking for:
- NEBOSH Construction Certificate or higher Health & Safety qualification.
- HNC or equivalent NVQ Level 4 in Civil or Electrical Engineering.
- Professional membership (e.g. APS, IOSH, ICE).
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in a Principal Designer / CDM Consultant role.
- Excellent understanding of the Safety by Design process.
- Strong communication and organisational skills.
- Comfortable working independently and travelling across London & the South East.
- Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Full UK driving licence.
Feel free to reach out if this could be of interest.
Project Designer (Permanent) employer: Sarto Thomas Ltd
Contact Detail:
Sarto Thomas Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Designer (Permanent)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest CDM Regulations and how they apply to civil engineering projects. Being well-versed in these regulations will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your expertise during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the highways and civil engineering sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and employers, which can lead to valuable job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects where you've successfully implemented health and safety measures as a Principal Designer. Highlighting your hands-on experience will make you stand out as a candidate who can deliver results.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by practising how to clearly articulate complex safety concepts. Being able to convey critical information effectively is key for the role, especially when chairing Design Risk Review meetings.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Designer (Permanent)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in health and safety, particularly in relation to CDM Regulations and civil engineering design. Use specific examples that demonstrate your expertise in managing infrastructure projects.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your passion for the role of Principal Designer. Mention your qualifications, such as the NEBOSH Construction Certificate, and how your experience aligns with the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication is key for this role, consider including examples in your application that demonstrate your ability to chair meetings and document discussions effectively. This could be through previous roles or specific projects.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you mention your professional memberships and any additional qualifications that are relevant to the role. This will help to establish your credibility and commitment to the field of health and safety in civil engineering.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sarto Thomas Ltd
✨Know Your CDM Regulations
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the CDM Regulations 2015. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied these regulations in your previous roles, especially in relation to highways and civil engineering projects.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Designer, you'll be leading Design Risk Review meetings. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or projects, highlighting your ability to communicate safety-critical information effectively.
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
Be ready to discuss your technical qualifications, such as your NEBOSH Construction Certificate and any relevant engineering qualifications. Highlight specific projects where you've challenged buildability, maintainability, and operability.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Think of insightful questions to ask about the company's approach to health and safety, their project management processes, and how they support professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the company.
