At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead safety advisory services in construction and workplace environments, ensuring compliance and risk management.
- Company: Join WSP, a global leader in engineering and professional services with a culture of innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, health support, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to creating positive, long-lasting impacts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safety and well-being in communities while shaping your unique career.
- Qualifications: Experience in construction safety and strong knowledge of UK health & safety legislation required.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.
What if you could do the kind of work the world needs? At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.
We are seeking a Principal Consultant to lead the delivery of Safety Advisory services across both construction projects and operational environments. This role spans the full asset lifecycle — from design and construction (CDM / Principal Designer duties) through to occupied buildings (workplace safety, compliance and assurance). You will act as a trusted advisor to clients, leading delivery, influencing stakeholders and ensuring robust management of health and safety risk across both project and operational settings. This is a senior role requiring strong technical capability, leadership and the ability to operate across multiple service lines.
In a typical week, you may be involved in:
- Lead delivery of construction and workplace safety advisory services
- Ensure compliance with CDM 2015 and wider UK health & safety legislation
- Provide strategic and practical advice across both project and operational environments
- Manage client relationships and project delivery to achieve commercial and quality outcomes
- Drive consistency and improvement across safety advisory services
Key Responsibilities
Construction Safety (CDM / Project Lifecycle)
- Lead delivery of CDM Principal Designer duties across projects and programmes
- Take ownership of design risk management strategies, ensuring risks are eliminated or reduced through design
- Chair and lead design risk workshops, coordination meetings and project reviews
- Provide authoritative advice to clients on CDM duties and compliance
- Oversee production and quality of:
- Pre-Construction Information (PCI)
- Risk Registers / Hazard Logs
- Health and Safety Files (HSF)
- Influence design and delivery teams to drive proportionate and effective risk management
Workplace & Operational Safety (Post-Occupancy)
- Lead delivery of health and safety advisory services across operational estates
- Provide strategic advice on H&S management systems, compliance and risk control
- Oversee and undertake audits, inspections and assurance activities
- Advise on risk assessments, safe systems of work and statutory compliance
- Support clients in managing FM providers, contractors and operational risks
- Drive improvements in safety culture and performance
Client Leadership & Project Delivery
- Act as a key client contact, building and maintaining strong relationships
- Lead delivery of projects in line with scope, programme and commercial expectations
- Support development of proposals, scopes and fee submissions
- Identify opportunities for repeat work and service growth
- Manage multiple projects and priorities across service lines
Assurance, Governance & Continuous Improvement
- Provide oversight and assurance across construction and operational safety activities
- Produce and review high-quality reports, audit findings and recommendations
- Support development of standards, tools and best practice
- Drive consistency in service delivery across projects and teams
- Contribute to internal knowledge sharing and capability development
Leadership & Influence
You will:
- Act as a trusted advisor to clients and senior stakeholders
- Lead multidisciplinary engagement across design, construction and operational teams
- Provide technical leadership across construction and workplace safety
- Mentor and support junior and senior team members
- Influence behaviours to drive improved safety outcomes and compliance
We are looking for candidates who can demonstrate:
- Significant experience in construction safety / CDM advisory, including leading PD roles
- Experience in workplace or operational health & safety (e.g. audits, compliance, FM environments)
- Strong knowledge of CDM Regulations 2015 and wider UK H&S legislation
- Ability to operate confidently across both project and operational environments
- Proven experience managing client relationships and project delivery
- Commercial awareness, including understanding of scope, fees and delivery performance
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
Qualifications & Professional Memberships
- Degree or equivalent in construction, engineering, health & safety or related field (or HNC/HND with significant relevant experience)
- NEBOSH General or Construction Certificate (or equivalent)
- Membership of a relevant professional body (IOSH, APS or similar)
- Strong technical expertise across construction and workplace safety
Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world. With us, you can. Apply today.
We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms. Our passionate people are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long-lasting impacts on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. With over 11,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we are dedicated to our local communities and propelled by international brainpower.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
Work-life balance
At WSP, we understand that work is just one aspect of your life. It’s important to make time for you, your family, friends, interests and your community. Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.
Inclusivity & Belonging
We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society. We celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging at WSP. We have our employee resource groups bring together employees and allies with different backgrounds to promote a culture of inclusivity.
Health & Wellbeing
We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme. Our Virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP at a time and place that suits you – giving you peace of mind and quick access to medical advice when you need it most. We also provide reasonable workplace adjustments for those in need. Additionally, you can benefit from the Gymflex scheme, which offers up to 40% off annual gym memberships through our WSP flexible benefits program, as well as a comprehensive menopause support package.
Flex your time
To enhance work-life balance, WSP offers the “WSP My Hour,” allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day. We also provide part-time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement to suit you.
Your development
We understand the importance of development and training to you. That’s why we foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership.
#WeAreWSP Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.
Principal Consultant – Safety Advisory (Construction & Workplace Safety) - London and South East employer: WSP Group
WSP is an exceptional employer that champions a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the field of transport planning and urban development. With a flexible hybrid working policy, a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, and ample opportunities for professional growth, WSP fosters a supportive environment where diverse perspectives are celebrated, allowing you to thrive both personally and professionally in the vibrant setting of London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Consultant – Safety Advisory (Construction & Workplace Safety) - London and South East
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like WSP Group, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Principal Consultant – Safety Advisory (Construction & Workplace Safety) - London and South East at WSP Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Consultant – Safety Advisory (Construction & Workplace Safety) - London and South East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP Group
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
