CDM Principal Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: CDM Principal Designer
Company: AECOM
Location: London, United Kingdom (Hybrid)
Job Type: Full-time
Category: Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) / Design Compliance
Date Posted: 2026-01-05T15:45:51.052
Experience Level: 5-10 Years
Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the planning, management, monitoring, and coordination of the pre-construction phase for complex energy projects, ensuring robust CDM compliance.
• Drive the application of general principles of prevention and safety best practices throughout the pre-construction lifecycle.
• Foster strong, collaborative relationships with design teams, duty holders, and clients to ensure seamless project execution and risk mitigation.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive Health and Safety Files, ensuring accurate information transfer at project handover.
• Contribute to the continuous enhancement of AECOM's Principal Designer capabilities and resources within the UK&I region.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically focused on the CDM (Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015) framework within the UK, emphasizing the Principal Designer duties. The focus on the "Energy portfolio" and "geographically long projects" suggests a need for experience managing large-scale, potentially complex infrastructure projects with extended timelines and significant safety considerations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, management, monitoring, and coordination of the pre-construction phase for energy sector projects, ensuring strict adherence to CDM 2015 regulations.
• Implement and oversee the application of the general principles of prevention in design and planning during the pre-construction phase.
• Ensure that design teams and other relevant parties fulfill their duties and responsibilities under CDM 2015.
• Coordinate effectively with all designated duty holders throughout the pre-construction phase to promote cooperation and information sharing.
• Assist clients in the preparation and provision of accurate pre-construction information packs.
• Liaise proactively with principal contractors to ensure relevant information for the construction phase is communicated effectively.
• Prepare and deliver comprehensive Health and Safety Files to clients upon project completion and handover.
• Champion a culture of health, safety, and wellbeing across all project activities, advocating for best practices and continuous improvement.
• Provide expert advice, support, and guidance on CDM matters to internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to the development and dissemination of CDM knowledge and best practices within AECOM's Energy business and the wider SH&E team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly delineate the Principal Designer's duties under CDM 2015, focusing heavily on the pre-construction phase, client liaison, and coordination with various project stakeholders. The emphasis on "general principles of prevention" and "Health and Safety File" preparation highlights critical technical aspects of the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Formal education or equivalent experience in a relevant field such as Engineering, Construction Management, Health & Safety, or a related discipline.
• Professional qualifications or certifications related to CDM, Health and Safety, or Project Management are highly advantageous.

Experience:

• Proven experience in successfully delivering the Principal Designer role on complex energy projects or geographically extensive projects (e.g., roads, pipelines).
• Demonstrated ability to manage and coordinate the pre-construction phase effectively, ensuring compliance with CDM regulations.
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple projects or business initiatives concurrently.
• Track record of fostering positive engagement and collaboration with design teams, clients, and other duty holders.

Required Skills:

• Comprehensive understanding and practical application of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM).
• Expertise in Principal Designer duties, including planning, managing, monitoring, and coordinating the pre-construction phase.
• Strong project management and coordination skills, with the ability to manage multiple workstreams and stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and precisely to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with internal design teams, external consultants, clients, and contractors.
• High level of commitment to quality and attention to detail in all aspects of work.
• Adaptability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic project environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience within the energy sector, understanding its unique project complexities and safety challenges.
• Familiarity with specific types of long-span or geographically extensive projects (e.g., infrastructure, utilities).
• Knowledge of risk management methodologies and their application in design and construction.
• Experience in developing and managing Health and Safety Files.
• Familiarity with AECOM's internal processes and project delivery frameworks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical experience with CDM regulations and the Principal Designer role, particularly within the energy sector or large-scale infrastructure. The need for strong communication and collaboration skills is highlighted, crucial for coordinating multiple stakeholders.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable case studies showcasing successful delivery of Principal Designer duties on significant energy or infrastructure projects.
• Evidence of robust pre-construction phase planning, management, and coordination processes.
• Examples of effective collaboration and communication strategies with design teams, clients, and contractors.
• Documentation illustrating the application of CDM principles and risk mitigation techniques.
• Examples of developed Health and Safety Files and pre-construction information packs.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to document and articulate the processes used for managing the pre-construction phase under CDM.
• Experience in developing and implementing safety protocols and workflow enhancements for design and planning stages.
• Proficiency in detailing how collaboration and coordination with duty holders were facilitated and managed.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a strong portfolio is critical for a Principal Designer role. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their experience with CDM, project management, and stakeholder coordination through concrete examples and documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Principal Designer with 5-10 years of experience in London, UK, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between £60,000 and £85,000 per annum. This estimate considers the specialist nature of the role, the specific regulatory requirements (CDM), the sector (Energy), and the location (London).

Benefits:

• Career Development Opportunities: Access to training, professional development programs, and pathways for career advancement within AECOM.
• Flexible Hybrid Working Model: Ability to balance working from home and the office, promoting work-life balance.
• Technical Practice Networks: Opportunities to connect with and learn from specialists across various technical disciplines within AECOM.
• AECOM University: A platform for continuous learning and skill enhancement through a wide range of courses and resources.
• Volunteering Days: Paid time off to engage in community service and contribute to social causes.
• Comprehensive health and well-being programs.
• Pension scheme and other statutory benefits.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. The hybrid working model offers flexibility in structuring these hours, subject to project and team requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on industry data for similar roles in London. AECOM's listed benefits are standard for large, publicly traded corporations and are tailored to support employee growth and well-being, which are attractive to experienced professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting and Engineering. AECOM operates globally, providing advisory, planning, design, engineering, and construction management services across various sectors including transportation, buildings, water, new energy, and the environment. Company Size: Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees worldwide. This indicates a large, established organization with significant resources and a global reach. Founded: AECOM has a long history, evolving through mergers and acquisitions, with its current form established to address complex global infrastructure challenges.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Environment & Energy SH&E Team, a national team within the UK&I region.
• The Principal Designer will report to the Environment & Energy Principal Designer Lead for the UK&I.
• This role involves significant collaboration with internal design teams, project managers, and clients, as well as external duty holders and contractors.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach, utilizing technical and digital expertise to solve complex challenges.
• The company promotes a culture of collaboration, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Focus on delivering sustainable legacies and addressing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) priorities.
• Commitment to fostering a safe and respectful workplace where employees can bring their whole selves to work.

Company Website: https://www.aecom.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture is characterized by its global reach, commitment to sustainability, and focus on delivering impactful infrastructure projects. The emphasis on diversity and inclusion, along with employee growth, suggests a supportive yet results-oriented environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Principal Designer role, indicating a senior-level position requiring significant expertise and autonomy within the Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) domain, specifically concerning design compliance under CDM regulations. It sits at a crucial junction, influencing project safety from the earliest stages.

Reporting Structure: The Principal Designer reports to the Environment & Energy Principal Designer Lead for the UK&I region. This suggests a clear line of reporting and a structured approach to managing HSE and CDM compliance across projects.

Operations Impact: The Principal Designer's impact is profound, directly influencing project safety, risk reduction, and compliance from the conceptual design phase through to construction. Effective Principal Design management prevents accidents, reduces project delays, and ensures legal compliance, thereby safeguarding AECOM's reputation and client satisfaction. This role is integral to AECOM's commitment to delivering a "better world" safely and sustainably.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise in CDM regulations and specific energy sector project types, becoming a go-to subject matter expert.
• Leadership Development: Progress to Principal Designer Lead roles, managing teams of designers and overseeing larger portfolios of work.
• Cross-Sectoral Experience: Gain exposure to other sectors within AECOM's business lines through cross-functional project involvement.
• Mentorship Opportunities: Mentor junior designers and safety professionals, contributing to the development of AECOM's talent pool.
• Professional Qualifications: Support and encouragement to pursue further certifications and advanced training in HSE and project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal" title signifies a senior technical expert. Growth opportunities likely involve increasing responsibility, team leadership, and potentially broader strategic involvement in HSE policy and practice within AECOM.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, combining remote work with office-based collaboration. AECOM has primary UK offices, with a preference for London and the Southeast. Office Location(s): Primary UK offices, with specific mention of London (Aldgate Tower) and Cambridge, United Kingdom. This offers flexibility for candidates based in these regions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages collaboration through scheduled office days, team meetings, and project-specific interactions.
• Tools and Technology: Access to AECOM's digital infrastructure, project management software, and communication platforms is expected, facilitating seamless remote and office-based work.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with design teams, SH&E professionals, and project leadership, fostering a strong sense of teamwork and shared responsibility.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 per week) with flexibility afforded by the hybrid working model. This allows for better integration of work and personal life, which is crucial for managing demanding project schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role suggests a modern work environment that balances flexibility with the need for in-person collaboration, essential for safety-critical roles like Principal Designer.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter, likely conducted by HR or a recruiter (Melissa Moody mentioned). Focus on verifying essential experience with CDM and the Principal Designer role.
• Technical Interview: Likely with the Principal Designer Lead and/or senior members of the Environment & Energy SH&E team. This stage will delve into your understanding and application of CDM 2015, your experience managing pre-construction phases, and your approach to risk management. Expect scenario-based questions.
• Portfolio Review (Integrated): Candidates will likely be asked to present specific examples from their portfolio that demonstrate their experience with CDM projects, client engagement, and coordination. This may be part of the technical interview or a separate session.
• Cultural Fit/Team Interview: Discussion focusing on collaboration style, problem-solving approaches, and alignment with AECOM's values and the team's working methods.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a more senior leader, focusing on strategic fit and overall suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Relevant Projects: Select 2-3 key projects that best exemplify your experience as a Principal Designer, particularly in the energy or infrastructure sectors.
• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the scope, your specific role and responsibilities as Principal Designer, the challenges faced (especially regarding CDM compliance and pre-construction coordination), your solutions/methodologies, and the positive outcomes (e.g., safety record, compliance achieved, client satisfaction).
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate success (e.g., reduction in design risks, successful handover of Health and Safety File, positive client feedback on safety management).
• Highlight CDM Compliance: Clearly articulate how you ensured compliance with CDM 2015, including your approach to risk assessments, duty holder coordination, and information management.
• Prepare for Questions: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, how you handle disagreements with design teams or contractors, and your strategies for ensuring effective communication.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios related to managing safety on a complex energy project during the pre-construction phase.
• Practice articulating your approach to risk identification, mitigation, and control measures.
• Consider how you would handle a situation where a design team is resistant to safety recommendations or where coordination with multiple contractors is challenging.
• Be ready to discuss your understanding of AECOM's commitment to sustainability and how it integrates with HSE practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, focusing on practical application of CDM regulations and your ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships in a safety-critical environment. A well-prepared portfolio is essential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for planning, scheduling, and tracking project phases.
• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or AECOM's internal equivalents for communication and team coordination.
• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for storing, sharing, and version control of project documentation (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex).
• Design Software Awareness: While not a designer, understanding the output of CAD/BIM software (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD) is beneficial for assessing design safety.

Analytics & Reporting:

• HSE Reporting Tools: Experience with systems for incident reporting, risk assessment tracking, and compliance monitoring.
• Data Analysis Tools: Basic proficiency in Excel for data manipulation and analysis related to safety metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how client information and project data are managed within AECOM's systems is helpful.
• Familiarity with workflow automation concepts as applied to safety and compliance processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, the role implies a need for proficiency in standard project management and collaboration software. Familiarity with HSE-specific reporting and data management systems would be an advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing in all operations and decision-making.
• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards and honesty in all dealings.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders to achieve common goals.
• Innovation: Seeking creative solutions to complex challenges and embracing new technologies and methodologies.
• Sustainability: Dedicated to delivering projects that have a positive environmental and social impact.
• Inclusion: Fostering a diverse and equitable workplace where all employees feel valued and respected.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with design teams, project managers, clients, and contractors to ensure safety is embedded throughout the project lifecycle.
• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open and regular communication channels to share information, address concerns, and ensure alignment on safety objectives.
• Feedback Culture: Encouraging constructive feedback and continuous improvement in safety processes and practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's values emphasize a strong ethical foundation, a commitment to sustainability, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving, which are critical for a role that interfaces with multiple disciplines and stakeholders.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the needs and priorities of clients, design teams, contractors, and regulatory bodies, all while upholding stringent safety standards.
• Complexity of Energy Projects: Navigating the unique safety risks and regulatory landscapes associated with large-scale energy infrastructure projects.
• Ensuring Consistent CDM Application: Maintaining high standards of CDM compliance across multiple projects, potentially in different geographical locations or with varying levels of project maturity.
• Adapting to Evolving Regulations: Staying abreast of changes in CDM regulations and other relevant health and safety legislation, and integrating these into practice.
• Promoting a Proactive Safety Culture: Encouraging a mindset where safety is seen as an integral part of the design and planning process, not just a compliance exercise.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized CDM Training: Access to advanced courses and certifications in CDM regulations and related safety management systems.
• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend industry events and conferences focused on health and safety in construction and energy sectors.
• Mentorship Programs: Benefit from guidance from senior leaders within AECOM's extensive HSE network.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Exposure to different engineering disciplines and project types within AECOM's diverse portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to senior roles in safety-critical industries, requiring strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills. AECOM's commitment to employee development provides a solid framework for addressing these challenges and fostering professional growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience managing the pre-construction phase under CDM regulations on a large-scale energy project. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?"
• "How do you ensure effective coordination and communication between multiple duty holders during the pre-construction phase?"
• "Walk us through a situation where you had to influence a design team to adopt safer design practices. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?"
• "How do you stay current with changes in CDM legislation and best practices in health and safety management?"
• "Describe your process for developing a comprehensive Health and Safety File. What are the critical elements, and how do you ensure its accuracy and completeness?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AECOM and this specific role within our Energy SH&E team?"
• "How do you align your personal values with AECOM's core values of integrity, collaboration, and sustainability?"
• "Describe your preferred working style within a hybrid team environment. How do you ensure effective collaboration remotely and in the office?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: When presenting case studies, emphasize the tangible outcomes of your work – how you improved safety, ensured compliance, or facilitated smoother project delivery.
• Highlight CDM Expertise: Clearly articulate your role in applying CDM principles, managing risks, and coordinating duty holders.
• Be Concise and Clear: Present your information logically and avoid jargon where possible, ensuring your audience understands your contributions.
• Prepare Visual Aids: If possible, use simple diagrams or flowcharts to illustrate complex processes or project structures.
• Engage with Questions: Be ready to elaborate on any aspect of your portfolio and demonstrate your problem-solving capabilities through your responses.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a deep understanding of CDM, practical experience with complex projects, excellent communication skills, and a proactive approach to safety management.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this CDM Principal Designer position:

• Submit your application through the AECOM careers portal via the provided link.
• Tailor Your CV: Highlight specific experience with CDM 2015, Principal Designer duties, and projects within the energy or infrastructure sectors. Use keywords from the job description such as "CDM," "Principal Designer," "pre-construction phase," "duty holders," and "Health and Safety File."
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 key projects that showcase your expertise. Be ready to discuss your specific contributions, the challenges you faced, and the outcomes achieved, with a strong emphasis on safety and compliance.
• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's recent projects, values, and commitment to sustainability and safety. Understand their approach to delivering a "better world."
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that demonstrate your skills in leadership, communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder management within a safety context.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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