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- Tasks: Lead CDM and construction safety services on high-value projects, ensuring health and safety compliance.
- Company: Dynamic consultancy focused on innovative construction safety solutions.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, health support, flexible hours, and a culture of inclusivity.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional growth and mentoring junior consultants.
- Why this job: Shape the future of construction safety while making a real impact on projects.
- Qualifications: Extensive CDM experience, strong knowledge of regulations, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 ÂŁ per year.
We are seeking a Principal Consultant to lead the delivery of CDM and construction safety services across complex and high-value projects. This role is suited to an experienced professional who can operate with a high degree of autonomy, taking ownership of Principal Designer (PD) duties, leading engagement with clients and design teams, and ensuring robust management of health and safety risk throughout the project lifecycle.
You will play a key role in shaping how CDM and construction safety is delivered across projects, with influence spanning RIBA Stages 2–5, and will contribute to the ongoing growth and development of the service offering.
Responsibilities- Lead delivery of CDM Principal Designer duties across multiple projects
- Take ownership of design risk management strategy, ensuring risks are identified, challenged and reduced through design
- Chair and lead design risk workshops, coordination meetings and project reviews
- Provide clear, authoritative advice to clients on their statutory duties under CDM and the Building Safety Act
- Oversee and assure quality of key CDM deliverables, including: Pre-Construction Information (PCI), Design Risk Registers / Hazard Logs, Health and Safety Files (HSF)
- Act as Principal Designer under the Building Safety Act where required
- Influence design teams to drive practical and proportionate risk reduction
- Manage project delivery in line with agreed scope, programme and commercial expectations
- Support preparation of proposals, scopes and fee submissions
- Contribute to development of internal standards, tools and best practice
- Leading CDM / PD delivery on projects or programmes
- Acting as a key point of contact for clients, building and maintaining trusted relationships
- Providing technical oversight and quality assurance across project outputs
- Supporting and mentoring junior and senior consultants
- Driving consistency and improvement in how services are delivered
- Identifying opportunities for repeat work and service expansion
- Extensive experience in a CDM / construction safety role, including leading PD appointments
- Strong, demonstrable knowledge of CDM Regulations 2015 and their practical application
- Experience undertaking or leading Principal Designer duties under the Building Safety Act
- Strong understanding of design processes and RIBA stages, with the ability to influence design development
- Proven ability to lead risk management discussions and challenge design decisions effectively
- Experience managing multiple projects, priorities and client relationships
- Commercial awareness, including understanding of scope, fees and delivery expectations
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Degree or equivalent in construction, engineering, health & safety or related field (or HNC/HND with significant relevant experience)
- NEBOSH Construction Certificate (or equivalent) expected
- Chartered or working towards Chartered membership of IOSH, APS or IIRSM
- Work‑life balance: hybrid working policy allowing work from home two days a week and collaboration in modern offices across the UK.
- Inclusivity & Belonging: culture of inclusion and belonging, employee resource groups, support for authentic selves.
- Health & Wellbeing: Thrive programme, Virtual GP service, reasonable workplace adjustments, Gymflex scheme, menopause support package.
- Flex your time: “WSP My Hour” each day for personal activities with flexible time compounding.
- Part‑time and flexible working arrangements, option to purchase additional leave.
Principal Consultant - CDM & Construction Safety (London and South East) employer: WSP USA
Contact Detail:
WSP USA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Consultant - CDM & Construction Safety (London and South East)
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Show Off Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or during interviews, make sure to highlight your experience with CDM regulations and risk management. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in past projects to really impress them.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every company is different, so do your homework! Understand their projects and values, and tailor your conversations to show how your skills align with their needs. This shows you're genuinely interested and not just sending out generic applications.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for job openings! Applying directly through us not only makes it easier for you but also shows your enthusiasm for being part of our team. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Consultant - CDM & Construction Safety (London and South East)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Consultant role. Highlight your experience in CDM and construction safety, and don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills and project management experience. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your past work that align with the responsibilities listed in the job description. We love a good story that shows your passion for construction safety!
Showcase Your Qualifications: Don’t forget to mention your qualifications and memberships, like your NEBOSH Construction Certificate or any chartered status. We’re looking for candidates who have the right credentials to back up their experience, so make sure these stand out in your application.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP USA
✨Know Your CDM Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the CDM Regulations 2015 and the Building Safety Act. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in your previous roles, especially in leading Principal Designer duties. This shows you’re not just familiar with the theory but can also implement it practically.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led design risk workshops or coordinated meetings. Highlight your ability to manage multiple projects and client relationships effectively. This will demonstrate your capability to take ownership and lead teams, which is crucial for this role.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts on risk management and design processes. Use clear, authoritative language when discussing your past experiences. Good communication is key in this role, so showing that you can engage stakeholders effectively will set you apart.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Future Trends
Stay updated on the latest trends in construction safety and CDM practices. Be prepared to share your insights on how these could influence project delivery. This shows that you’re not only focused on the present but also thinking about the future of the industry.