CDM Principal Designer and Construction Safety

Overview

In this role you will lead CDM-related health and safety activities for design and engineering projects, bridging regulatory requirements with practical site execution. You will act as a CDM/H&S advisor to clients and project teams, conduct design reviews and risk assessments, and support handover with safety files. The position involves liaising with clients, designers and contractors, and delivering safety leadership across multidisciplinary teams on complex UK projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement CDM 2015-based safety strategies for design and construction projects
• Carry out design reviews and designers’ risk assessments
• Collate pre-construction information and evaluate contractor safe working arrangements
• Audit client supply chains to ensure duties are discharged by Designers, Principal Designers and/or Principal Contractors
• Deliver CDM knowledge sharing sessions to project and client teams
• Lead site inspections and design audits to ensure compliance with legislation and best practice
• Provide professional leadership in safety discipline and oversee delivery of project technical strategy
• Support interface handover and development of Health & Safety files
• Engage with authorities and stakeholders (Environment Agency, planning authorities, HSE, Network Rail, etc.)
• Advise on meeting CDM regulatory requirements and relevant engineering safety standards

Key requirements

• Design or engineering-related degree, diploma or certificate
• Membership of a recognised design body (e.g., ICE, IMechE, CIOB, RIBA)
• Qualification in Construction Safety (NEBOSH Construction Certificate/Diploma)
• Member of a safety-related institution (APS or IOSH)
• 3–7 years’ practical CDM experience on building design/engineering projects
• Knowledge of risk assessments, safety inspections, permit-to-work, toolbox talks, emergency planning
• Ability to challenge designers on CDM compliance
• Experience as CDM/H&S technical advisor to clients
• Understanding of project financials, quality, and programme targets
• Clear communicator of design philosophy and safety requirements
• Experience with leadership in development of e-solutions is preferred

• Collaborative mindset
• Strong communication
• Stakeholder liaison
• CDM 2015 compliance
• Risk assessment and design review
• Site inspections and safety audits

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