Principal Designer – Architecture Job in South East London, London – 65,000

Overview

In this Principal Designer role, you will lead a growing CDM/Principal Designer team within a renowned AJ Top 100 architectural practice. You will steer Health & Safety risk management across pre-construction, ensure design teams align with CDM standards, and develop in-house guidance and training. The position blends heritage-focused projects with advisory work for public bodies, charities, and developers. You will shape safety culture, liaise with enforcing authorities, and drive consistent H&S outcomes on complex heritage schemes.

Pay / Benefits

• Salary up to 65,000
• 25 days annual leave, increasing with service
• Hybrid working
• Life assurance
• Cycle to work scheme
• Season ticket loan`,`Eyecare vouchers`,`Optional healthcare cash back`,`Enhanced maternity and paternity pay

Responsibilities

• Advise project teams and clients on Health and Safety risk management per UK CDM Regulations
• Develop and integrate the CDM Principal Designer role across the company
• Review projects to ensure pre-construction H&S standards and consistency
• Collate pre-construction information and coordinate H&S aspects in pre-construction
• Prepare and issue the health and safety file on completion
• Develop guidance materials and management tools; provide in-house training
• Research H&S standards and best practices (national and international)
• Liaise with enforcing authorities as needed
• Critically appraise and assist with Design Risk Assessments

Key requirements

• Experience delivering CDM/H&S consultancy services
• Architecture, architecture technology, construction or engineering background
• NEBOSH Construction Certificate or equivalent IOSH membership and APS
• Proven leadership of a Principal Designer/CDM team
• Degree in architecture, architecture technology, construction or engineering
• Heritage project experience advantageous

• Leadership and mentoring
• Strong communication and training abilities
• Collaborative approach with cross-functional teams
• CDM/Health & Safety consultancy
• Pre-construction health and safety management
• Design Risk Assessments (DRA)

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