CDM Principal Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: CDM Principal Designer
Company: AECOM
Location: London, United Kingdom (with flexibility for other UK offices, preference for London and Southeast)
Job Type: Full-time
Category: Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) / Design Management
Date Posted: January 5, 2026
Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (implied by "experienced" and "Principal Designer" title)
Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a key position within AECOM's Environment & Energy Health, Safety & Environment (SH&E) Team, focusing on delivering Principal Designer services for significant projects within the Energy portfolio.
• The CDM Principal Designer will be responsible for ensuring compliance with the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015) throughout the pre-construction phase of projects.
• The position requires close collaboration with internal design teams, external duty holders, and clients to foster a culture of health, safety, and wellbeing, disseminating knowledge and advocating best practices.
• This role offers the opportunity to contribute to national-level projects and influence the development of Principal Designer resources within AECOM's UK&I region, supporting professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job title "CDM Principal Designer" and the responsibilities described clearly place this role within the Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) domain, with a specific focus on design management and regulatory compliance under CDM 2015. The mention of "Energy portfolio" and "geographically long projects" suggests a specialization within infrastructure consulting, particularly in sectors like energy transmission, renewables, or large-scale infrastructure development. The "Principal Designer" designation implies a senior level of expertise and responsibility.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Pre-Construction Phase Management: Proactively plan, manage, monitor, and coordinate the pre-construction phase of projects, ensuring all CDM 2015 duties are fulfilled effectively and efficiently.
• Regulatory Compliance: Work closely with design teams to ensure strict adherence to their duties under the CDM Regulations 2015, integrating prevention principles throughout the design process.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Liaise and coordinate effectively with all project duty holders during the pre-construction phase to ensure seamless cooperation and information exchange.
• Client Support: Assist clients in the provision and compilation of accurate pre-construction information packages, crucial for safe project execution.
• Principal Contractor Liaison: Engage with principal contractors to share essential information relevant to the construction phase, facilitating a smooth handover.
• Health and Safety File Preparation: Prepare and deliver a comprehensive Health and Safety File for the client upon project completion and handover, documenting key safety information.
• Knowledge Dissemination: Act as a subject matter expert, providing advice, guidance, and support on CDM regulations and best practices to internal AECOM teams and clients.
• Team Development: Contribute to the development and enhancement of Principal Designer resources and capabilities within the UK&I region, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a proactive, collaborative, and compliance-driven approach to managing health and safety risks during the design and planning stages of infrastructure projects. The focus on "pre-construction phase" and "duty holders" directly aligns with the core tenets of CDM 2015.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a strong understanding of relevant engineering, construction, or health and safety principles is implied.
• Professional qualifications related to health and safety (e.g., NEBOSH, IOSH) or construction design management would be highly advantageous.

Experience:

• Proven experience in successfully delivering the Principal Designer role on complex projects, specifically within the energy sector or large-scale geographical infrastructure projects (e.g., roads, pipelines).
• Demonstrable experience in managing the pre-construction phase and ensuring compliance with CDM regulations.
• Experience in collaborating with diverse project teams, including designers, engineers, and construction professionals.

Required Skills:

• CDM Regulations Expertise: Deep understanding and practical application of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.
• Health and Safety Management: Proficiency in identifying, assessing, and mitigating health and safety risks in design and construction environments.
• Project Coordination: Ability to effectively coordinate multiple stakeholders and project elements, particularly during the pre-construction phase.
• Communication Proficiency: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex requirements clearly and precisely to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Collaboration Skills: Proven ability to work collaboratively with internal teams, clients, and external duty holders to achieve shared health and safety objectives.
• Quality Commitment: A high level of dedication to delivering quality services and upholding AECOM's standards.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects and business initiatives concurrently.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience within the Energy sector (renewables, transmission, etc.) or other large linear infrastructure projects.
• Familiarity with AECOM's project management methodologies and internal systems.
• Knowledge of broader environmental and sustainability considerations within infrastructure projects.
• Experience in developing and delivering training or guidance on CDM regulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical, hands-on experience in CDM Principal Design, particularly within large-scale infrastructure or energy projects. The "fast-paced environment" and "multiple projects" requirements suggest a need for strong organizational and time management skills, common in major consulting firms.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• CDM Project Case Studies: Demonstrable examples of projects where the candidate served as Principal Designer, showcasing their role in managing pre-construction safety and compliance.
• Risk Management Documentation: Evidence of developing and implementing risk assessment processes and mitigation strategies, particularly concerning design-related hazards.
• Health and Safety File Examples: Samples or detailed descriptions of Health and Safety Files prepared for previous projects, highlighting content, structure, and client handover procedures.
• Client Engagement & Coordination: Examples of how the candidate effectively engaged with clients and coordinated with various duty holders to ensure a unified approach to health and safety.

Process Documentation:

• Pre-Construction Phase Planning: Documentation outlining methodologies for planning and managing the pre-construction phase, including risk identification and hazard elimination strategies.
• CDM Compliance Workflows: Detailed workflows demonstrating how the candidate ensures design teams and other stakeholders comply with CDM 2015 requirements.
• Stakeholder Communication Protocols: Established protocols for effective communication and information sharing between AECOM, clients, principal contractors, and other duty holders.
• Project Handover Procedures: Documented processes for the successful handover of projects, including the finalization and delivery of the Health and Safety File.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Principal Designer role, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of CDM regulations is crucial. This includes showcasing how risks were managed, how compliance was achieved, and how effective communication and coordination were maintained across complex projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the location (London, UK), the experience level (experienced Principal Designer), and the industry (major infrastructure consulting), a competitive salary is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in London, the estimated salary range for a CDM Principal Designer is likely between £60,000 and £85,000 per annum. This range can vary based on the specific candidate's experience, qualifications, and the exact nature of the projects assigned.

Benefits:

• Career Development Opportunities: Access to training and development programs to enhance professional skills and career progression within AECOM.
• Flexible Hybrid Working Model: Offers a balance between remote work and in-office collaboration, promoting work-life integration.
• Technical Practice Networks: Opportunities to connect with and learn from specialists across various technical disciplines within AECOM.
• AECOM University: Access to a comprehensive learning platform for continuous professional development.
• Volunteering Days: Paid time off to engage in community service and support social responsibility initiatives.
• Comprehensive Health and Wellbeing Programs: Support for employee well-being, likely including health insurance, mental health resources, and wellness initiatives.
• Pension Scheme: Standard workplace pension contributions.
• Life Assurance: Coverage for dependents in the event of an employee's passing.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week. The hybrid working model suggests flexibility in how these hours are distributed between office and remote locations, allowing for better work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on market research for similar Principal Designer roles in London, considering the specialist nature of CDM compliance and the infrastructure consulting sector. AECOM's listed benefits are typical for a large, global organization and are attractive to professionals seeking growth and work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering. AECOM operates globally, providing a wide range of services from advisory and design to program and construction management across transportation, buildings, water, new energy, and environmental sectors. Company Size: Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees worldwide. This indicates a large, established organization with significant resources, project capabilities, and a structured corporate environment. Founded: AECOM has a long history, with roots tracing back to the early 20th century, evolving through various mergers and acquisitions into its current global form. This longevity suggests stability and deep industry expertise.

Team Structure:

• Environment & Energy SH&E Team: The role sits within this specialized national team, indicating a focus on Health, Safety, and Environment within AECOM's Energy business line.
• Reporting: The CDM Principal Designer will report to the Environment & Energy Principal Designer Lead for the UK&I region, suggesting a clear reporting line and a hierarchy within the SH&E function.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role inherently requires collaboration with design teams, project managers, clients, and external duty holders, emphasizing a matrixed and project-based operational structure.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: AECOM emphasizes its technical and digital expertise, suggesting a data-informed approach to problem-solving and project delivery.
• Process Optimization: The company's focus on delivering professional services throughout the project lifecycle implies a commitment to efficient and optimized workflows.
• Sustainability & ESG: AECOM highlights its commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) priorities, suggesting that these principles are integrated into project planning and execution.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's description highlights its global reach, commitment to sustainability, and focus on delivering impactful infrastructure projects. The company culture appears to value innovation, collaboration, and employee growth, with a strong emphasis on ethical practices and diversity.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is for an experienced professional, likely at a mid-to-senior level, designated as "Principal Designer." It signifies a level of responsibility for technical leadership, client engagement, and regulatory oversight within the CDM framework. The role is not entry-level but requires established expertise. Reporting Structure: The CDM Principal Designer reports to the Environment & Energy Principal Designer Lead for the UK&I region. This indicates a clear line of management within the SH&E department, with opportunities to interact with higher leadership and contribute to departmental strategy. Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the safety, efficiency, and legal compliance of major energy and infrastructure projects. By ensuring adherence to CDM regulations, the Principal Designer mitigates risks, prevents accidents, and contributes to the successful and responsible delivery of projects, thereby protecting AECOM's reputation and client relationships.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Potential to advance to a Principal Designer Lead role or similar senior management positions within the SH&E or Energy divisions.
• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of energy infrastructure or advanced CDM practices.
• Project Diversity: Exposure to a wide range of high-profile, large-scale projects, enhancing technical and project management skills.
• Mentorship: Potential to mentor junior team members and contribute to the development of AECOM's future talent pool.
• AECOM University & Networks: Access to structured learning and professional networks that foster continuous skill enhancement and career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal Designer" title suggests a career path focused on technical specialization and leadership in health and safety design management. Growth opportunities likely involve taking on larger, more complex projects, managing teams, and contributing to strategic SH&E initiatives within AECOM.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid Work Model. This indicates a blend of remote work and office-based collaboration. AECOM has primary UK offices, with a preference for London and the Southeast. Office Location(s): Primary UK offices are available, with a specific mention of "UK - London - Aldgate Tower" as a primary location. Other locations like Glasgow are also mentioned as possibilities. This offers flexibility for candidates across different regions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages collaboration through planned office days, team meetings, and project-specific interactions.
• Operations Tools & Technology: AECOM is a technology-driven firm, so expect access to modern collaboration tools, project management software, and potentially specialized design and safety software.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with the national Environment & Energy SH&E Team, design teams, and project stakeholders, fostering a dynamic and connected work environment.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with a hybrid arrangement allowing for flexibility in managing working hours and location, balancing project demands with personal well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a key aspect of the work environment, offering flexibility. The emphasis on collaboration within a large, global firm means that while remote work is supported, active participation in team and project activities is expected.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CVs and applications to assess alignment with the required experience and skills, with a particular focus on CDM Principal Designer experience.
• First Interview: Likely a competency-based interview with the hiring manager (Melissa Moody) and potentially a senior member of the SH&E team. Questions will focus on experience with CDM regulations, project management, stakeholder coordination, and problem-solving.
• Technical Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to present a case study from their portfolio or tackle a hypothetical scenario related to CDM compliance and pre-construction planning. This assesses practical application of knowledge and communication skills.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a more senior leader within the Energy or SH&E business line to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight CDM Impact: Focus on how your role as Principal Designer directly contributed to improved safety outcomes, regulatory compliance, and efficient project delivery. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., reduction in identified risks, successful project handovers).
• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate your methodology for managing the pre-construction phase, coordinating duty holders, and preparing the Health and Safety File. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.
• Demonstrate Collaboration: Provide examples of how you effectively communicated and collaborated with diverse stakeholders, including clients, design teams, and contractors, to achieve safety objectives.
• Tailor to Energy Projects: If possible, select examples from energy or large infrastructure projects to directly align with AECOM's portfolio and the role's focus.
• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to discuss specific challenges faced in previous roles, how you overcame them, and what you learned.

Challenge Preparation:

• CDM Scenarios: Prepare to discuss common challenges in implementing CDM regulations on complex projects and how you would address them.
• Risk Management: Be ready to walk through your process for identifying, assessing, and mitigating design-related risks.
• Stakeholder Management: Practice articulating how you would manage difficult conversations or disagreements with clients or contractors regarding safety requirements.
• AECOM's Values: Research AECOM's commitment to safety, sustainability, and diversity, and be ready to discuss how your approach aligns with these values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Principal Designer role will heavily scrutinize practical experience and the ability to apply complex regulations like CDM 2015. A well-prepared portfolio showcasing concrete achievements and a clear understanding of AECOM's operational context will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CDM Software: Proficiency with software used for managing health and safety documentation, risk registers, and compliance tracking (specifics may vary, but familiarity with industry standards is key).
• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for planning, scheduling, and monitoring project phases.
• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with enterprise-level document control systems for managing project documentation (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project data, safety reports, and performance metrics to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Reporting Tools: Experience generating clear and concise reports on health and safety compliance, risks, and project status for various stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal AECOM Systems: While not explicitly stated, experience with large enterprise CRM or ERP systems is often beneficial for understanding project and client management within such organizations.
• Collaboration Suites: Proficient use of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and collaboration platforms like Microsoft Teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software is not listed, the role implies the need for strong digital literacy and the ability to quickly learn and adapt to AECOM's internal systems and industry-standard project management and HSE documentation tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Health, Safety, and Wellbeing: This is paramount, as evidenced by the role's focus on CDM regulations and AECOM's commitment to delivering a "better world" safely.
• Integrity and Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards and delivering expert advice with precision and reliability.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Working effectively across internal teams and with external partners to achieve shared goals.
• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Seeking new and better ways to deliver services and enhance safety practices.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs while ensuring project success and compliance.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and Engaged: Actively participating in project discussions, offering guidance, and fostering a collaborative safety culture.
• Cross-functional Integration: Seamlessly working with design, engineering, project management, and client teams to embed safety into all project stages.
• Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue about safety concerns and fostering an environment where feedback is valued and acted upon.
• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise on CDM regulations and best practices to uplift the capabilities of the wider team.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture, as described, emphasizes a global, collaborative approach with a strong ethical foundation and a commitment to positive societal impact. For this role, a proactive and safety-conscious collaboration style is essential.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Project Dynamics: Navigating the intricate safety requirements and stakeholder interests across large, multi-disciplinary energy projects.
• Balancing Compliance and Efficiency: Ensuring strict adherence to CDM regulations without unduly hindering project timelines or client objectives.
• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively coordinating and influencing a wide range of individuals and organizations with varying priorities and levels of safety understanding.
• Keeping Pace with Regulatory Changes: Staying abreast of evolving health and safety legislation and best practices in the dynamic energy sector.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CDM Training: Access to specialized training and certifications to deepen expertise in CDM and related health and safety fields.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Opportunities to attend industry events to network, learn about emerging trends, and gain insights into best practices.
• Mentorship Programs: Guidance from senior leaders within AECOM's SH&E or Energy divisions.
• Exposure to Global Best Practices: Learning from AECOM's international projects and teams to broaden understanding of diverse regulatory environments and safety approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a senior role in a complex, regulated industry. The growth opportunities are substantial, leveraging AECOM's global presence and commitment to employee development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• CDM Implementation: "Describe a challenging project where you acted as CDM Principal Designer. What were the primary risks, how did you manage them, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on structured problem-solving, regulatory knowledge, and impact).
• Stakeholder Management: "How do you ensure effective communication and cooperation between design teams, contractors, and clients regarding CDM responsibilities?" (Highlight communication strategies, conflict resolution, and building consensus).
• Risk Mitigation: "Walk me through your process for identifying and mitigating design-related hazards during the pre-construction phase of an energy project." (Demonstrate a systematic approach to risk assessment and control measures).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your research, how do AECOM's values align with your own professional approach to health and safety?" (Showcase understanding of AECOM's commitment to safety, ESG, and collaboration).
• "How would you contribute to fostering a positive safety culture within your team and across AECOM projects?" (Discuss your proactive approach to promoting safety awareness and best practices).
• "AECOM emphasizes delivering a 'better world'. How does your role as CDM Principal Designer contribute to this broader mission?" (Connect your responsibilities to AECOM's impact on sustainability and societal well-being).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience as a CDM Principal Designer, ideally within the energy or infrastructure sectors.
• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline:
  • Project Scope & Context
  • Your specific role and responsibilities as Principal Designer
  • Key CDM challenges encountered
  • Your approach to risk management and compliance
  • The outcome and achievements (quantify if possible)
• Highlight Process & Collaboration: Emphasize your methodologies for planning, coordination, and communication, showcasing how you engaged with different stakeholders.
• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your decision-making processes, technical knowledge, and handling of specific safety issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical application of CDM regulations, strong stakeholder management skills, and an understanding of AECOM's broader mission and values. A well-curated portfolio will be the foundation for these discussions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete the online application form via the provided link on SmartRecruiters.
• Tailor Your CV: Ensure your resume prominently features your experience as a CDM Principal Designer, highlighting specific projects, responsibilities, and achievements related to CDM 2015 and energy/infrastructure sectors. Use keywords from the job description such as "CDM Regulations," "Principal Designer," "Pre-Construction," "Health and Safety," and "Energy Sector."
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather documentation and case studies that exemplify your experience in managing the pre-construction phase, coordinating duty holders, and preparing Health and Safety Files. Be ready to present specific examples during the interview process.
• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's company values, recent projects (especially in the energy sector), and their commitment to sustainability and safety. Understand their approach to hybrid working and employee development.
• Practice Your Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions related to CDM regulations, risk management, stakeholder communication, and your suitability for AECOM's culture. Rehearse presenting your portfolio case studies clearly and concisely.

⚠️ 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.

---