At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team shaping safety in design for major projects across the UK.
- Company: WSP, a leading engineering and professional services firm with a global impact.
- Benefits: Flexible working, health support, and opportunities for personal development.
- Other info: Inclusive culture that values diverse perspectives and promotes work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in construction safety while collaborating with top professionals.
- Qualifications: Experience in CDM regulations and a passion for improving design safety.
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.
Our growing and diverse project portfolio means we are seeking Senior and/or Principal Safety in Design Consultants to strengthen our project‑delivery capability. We are looking for professionals with a strong working knowledge of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, and some knowledge and experience of the Principal Designer role in the Building Safety Act 2022 supported by design and compliance experience within transportation, infrastructure, energy/utilities, mechanical and engineering, structures, or similar design‑led environments. A passion for improving design safety and proactively identifying, eliminating, or mitigating risks during all stages of project development is essential.
Our CDM and Safety in Design specialists play a pivotal role across WSP’s multidisciplinary teams, collaborating closely with designers, engineers, and project managers to develop safe, innovative, and practical design solutions. You will also provide trusted, independent advice to clients, helping them develop and operate the systems and procedures necessary to meet their safety goals. Alongside design support both within WSP and to external parties, you will also have the opportunity to contribute to health and safety and services across workplace safety and compliance.
In a typical week, you may be involved in:
- Reviewing and challenging design‑stage risk management information
- Working directly with designers to develop creative and effective hazard‑mitigation strategies
- Chasing and gathering required information to inform risk profiles, PCI, HSF or BSA compliance plans
- Sharing industry best practice and contributing to internal knowledge development
- Advising clients and stakeholders on their legal responsibilities under CDM
- Applying CDM principles to non‑standard, complex, or unique project scenarios
- Scoping project issues and developing robust methodologies to resolve them
- Delivering safety in design project strategies, plans, and project‑specific approaches
- Potentially supporting Building regs compliance under the building safety act as Principal Designer utilising our in house compliance processes
- Compiling compliance reports, registers and documentation in line with the requirements of CDM and BSA
- Being responsible for the delivery of your own project deliverables in line with commercial proposals for time and cost.
We will look for you to demonstrate:
- A proven track record as a Safety in Design or CDM professional, with hands‑on design experience and strong practical knowledge of CDM 2015 and experience of BSA 2022
- A genuine commitment to improving health and safety performance and compliance across construction projects
- Experience within transportation, utilities, engineering, operations, risk management, or related disciplines, ideally with a good understanding of design process and risk profiles
- A degree (or equivalent) in safety, engineering, construction, transportation, or a related field—or an equivalent technical qualification (BTEC, HNC/HND) supported by strong practical experience
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the experience and confidence to speak in professional and client meetings
- A commitment to continued professional development, ideally supported by NEBOSH Construction certification and membership of APS, IIRSM and/or IOSH.
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.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
Senior or Principal, CDM and Safety Assurance Services - Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham and Newcastle, employer: WSP Group
At WSP, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that champions innovation and inclusivity. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our comprehensive development programmes and flexible working arrangements, allowing you to balance your professional and personal life while contributing to impactful projects in Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, and Newcastle. Join us to be part of a diverse community dedicated to making a positive difference in the world, where your ideas are valued and your career can flourish.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior or Principal, CDM and Safety Assurance Services - Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham and Newcastle,
✨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 Senior or Principal, CDM and Safety Assurance Services - Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham and Newcastle, at WSP Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior or Principal, CDM and Safety Assurance Services - Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham and Newcastle,
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!