Principal Designer - CDM

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal Designer - CDM

Company: BakerHicks

Location: United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Health, Safety & Compliance Operations

Date Posted: April 20, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the Principal Designer Representative (PDR) function under National Grid's SR188 framework, ensuring robust CDM compliance.

• Drive comprehensive design risk management processes, from hazard identification to mitigation strategies throughout the project lifecycle.

• Facilitate critical safety workshops, including HAZID/HAZOP sessions and design reviews, to proactively address potential risks.

• Oversee the creation and maintenance of key CDM deliverables, such as Design Risk Registers, Pre-Construction Information (PCI), and Health and Safety Files.

• Champion a proactive health, safety, and wellbeing culture across all engineering and construction projects, fostering a safe-by-design ethos.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for ensuring compliance with stringent health and safety regulations within the UK's infrastructure and utilities sector, specifically for National Grid projects. The "Principal Designer - CDM" title indicates a leadership position focused on the operational safety aspects of design and construction.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the designated Principal Designer Representative (PDR) for National Grid projects, adhering to SR188 framework requirements and client expectations.

• Provide expert advice and support to clients, designers, and project teams on all aspects of CDM Regulations 2015 compliance, clarifying roles, duties, and necessary documentation.

• Spearhead the design risk management process, ensuring thorough identification, elimination, or reduction of hazards at the earliest design stages.

• Lead and facilitate critical safety workshops, including Hazard Identification (HAZID), Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) studies, and comprehensive design reviews.

• Ensure the accurate and timely production and maintenance of essential CDM documentation, including Design Risk Registers, Pre-Construction Information (PCI), and Health and Safety Files.

• Integrate CDM and safety considerations into project design from inception, championing safe-by-design principles to proactively mitigate risks.

• Support project teams through both the design and construction phases, ensuring effective communication of residual risks to on-site contractors.

• Engage collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders, including National Grid representatives, contractors, and multidisciplinary design teams, to ensure alignment and compliance.

• Monitor and report on CDM compliance and overall safety performance, proactively identifying trends and recommending areas for continuous improvement.

• Foster and promote a robust health, safety, and wellbeing culture across all projects and team members, setting a high standard for operational safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed highlight a proactive, hands-on approach to safety and compliance management. The emphasis on "safe-by-design" and "risk management processes" indicates a need for strategic thinking and the ability to influence design decisions early on.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A relevant degree in engineering, construction, or a closely related discipline is required.

• Professional membership with recognized bodies such as the Association for Project Safety (APS), Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), or Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) is highly desirable.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in a Principal Designer or CDM Advisor role.

• Demonstrated experience within the utilities or infrastructure sectors is highly desirable.

• Proven track record of working on National Grid projects and familiarity with SR188 requirements is a significant advantage.

• Substantial experience encompassing both Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) and construction phases of projects.

Required Skills:

• Deep and practical knowledge of CDM Regulations 2015 and their application in complex project environments.

• Proficient in leading and facilitating design risk management activities, including HAZID and HAZOP studies.

• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with clients, designers, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

• Excellent organizational abilities with a proven capacity to manage multiple complex projects concurrently.

• Demonstrated ability to influence safety culture and drive compliance across project teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific National Grid project frameworks and documentation standards (SR188).

• Familiarity with various engineering disciplines common in transmission and distribution projects.

• Advanced risk assessment methodologies and tools.

• Experience in security clearance processes and requirements within critical infrastructure projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of formal education, professional accreditation, and extensive practical experience in CDM and safety management, particularly within the UK infrastructure context. The preference for National Grid project experience is a key differentiator.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies demonstrating successful implementation of CDM Regulations 2015 across complex infrastructure projects.

• Provide evidence of proactive hazard identification, risk assessment, and the development of robust mitigation strategies, highlighting the impact on project safety outcomes.

• Include examples of completed Design Risk Registers, Pre-Construction Information (PCI) packs, and Health and Safety Files, demonstrating thoroughness and compliance.

Process Documentation:

• Document your approach to leading and facilitating design risk workshops (HAZID, HAZOP, design reviews), including methodologies for participant engagement and action tracking.

• Outline your process for developing and maintaining Pre-Construction Information (PCI) and Health and Safety Files, detailing information flow and review stages.

• Illustrate your methods for monitoring and reporting on CDM compliance and safety performance, including the types of metrics used and reporting frequencies.

• Detail your strategies for embedding a "safe-by-design" culture and promoting health, safety, and wellbeing among multidisciplinary project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating practical application of CDM regulations, risk management, and stakeholder communication is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their processes and the tangible outcomes of their work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the seniority of this Principal Designer role, the specialized nature of CDM compliance within the UK infrastructure sector, and the location in the United Kingdom, a competitive salary is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for Principal Designer/CDM Advisor positions with 5-10 years of experience in heavy infrastructure and utilities, the estimated annual salary range is likely between £60,000 and £85,000. This estimate considers the demand for specialized safety professionals, the complexity of National Grid projects, and the benefits package offered.

Benefits:

• Company car or cash allowance: A valuable perk for a role that may involve site visits and travel across the UK.

• Up to 6% matched contributory pension plan: A strong retirement savings benefit.

• Life assurance scheme: Providing financial security for dependents.

• 25 days annual leave plus ability to buy additional leave: Standard but appreciated holiday entitlement with flexibility.

• Discount scheme (including gym membership, mobile phones etc.): A range of retail and lifestyle discounts.

• Flexible/hybrid working: Offering a balance between office-based collaboration and remote work flexibility, aligning with modern work practices.

• Family friendly policies: Supporting employees with family responsibilities.

• Employee assistance: Confidential support services for personal and professional well-being.

Working Hours:

The role is designed around a standard 40-hour work week. However, given the nature of construction and infrastructure projects, there may be an expectation for flexibility to attend critical site meetings or address urgent safety issues, particularly during peak construction phases. The hybrid working arrangement offers some flexibility in managing work location.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for similar senior safety and design management roles in the UK, considering the specific industry (infrastructure, utilities) and the emphasis on CDM compliance. The benefits package is comprehensive and aligns with typical offerings for senior positions in established engineering and construction firms.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

BakerHicks operates within the Architecture, Engineering, Construction (AEC), and Infrastructure sectors. Specifically, this role supports their growing Transmission & Distribution sector, which is crucial for national energy infrastructure. The company focuses on delivering complex projects that contribute to sustainable development and community impact.

Company Size:

BakerHicks is part of the Morgan Sindall Group, a larger entity, indicating a stable and resource-rich environment. BakerHicks itself operates across 14 locations with a significant European reach. This size suggests a company that can offer diverse project opportunities and career paths while maintaining a culture that values collaboration and expertise. For operations professionals, this means access to established processes and systems, but also the potential for significant impact within specialized teams.

Founded:

BakerHicks has a long history, innovating in design, engineering, and project delivery since 1957. This longevity speaks to their adaptability, expertise, and sustained success in the industry. For an operations role, this historical depth implies a company with established methodologies, a strong client base, and a culture that values experience and long-term vision.

Team Structure:

The role of Principal Designer Representative (PDR) will likely involve reporting to a senior project manager or head of safety/operations within the Transmission & Distribution division. The PDR will work closely with multidisciplinary design teams (engineers, architects, subject matter experts) and project delivery teams. Collaboration with National Grid representatives and external contractors will be a significant aspect of the role. The structure supports a matrixed approach where specialized expertise like CDM compliance is integrated into broader project delivery frameworks.

Methodology:

BakerHicks emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and creating a sustainable future. For operations, this translates to a focus on integrated project delivery, leveraging technology for design and risk management, and a commitment to best practices in health and safety. The company likely employs structured project management methodologies and robust quality assurance processes, with a strong emphasis on data-driven decision-making for safety and efficiency.

Company Website:

https://bakerhicks.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's deep roots and affiliation with a larger group suggest stability and a robust operational framework. The focus on infrastructure and sustainability aligns with current industry trends, making this an attractive prospect for operations professionals interested in high-impact projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

This role is positioned at a Principal level, indicating a senior individual contributor with significant responsibility and influence. It represents a career path for experienced safety and design professionals who excel in technical expertise, regulatory compliance, and leadership within project environments. This level typically involves mentoring junior staff and contributing to the strategic development of safety and design processes within the organization.

Reporting Structure:

The Principal Designer Representative (PDR) will likely report to a Senior Project Manager or a Head of Safety/CDM within the Transmission & Distribution sector. This reporting line will provide oversight and guidance, while the PDR will have significant autonomy in executing their responsibilities related to CDM compliance and design risk management. Collaboration will extend across project teams, design disciplines, and directly with National Grid stakeholders.

Operations Impact:

The PDR's impact is directly tied to ensuring the safety and compliance of critical national infrastructure projects. By effectively managing CDM regulations and design risks, the role contributes to preventing accidents, minimizing project delays and costs associated with safety incidents, and upholding BakerHicks' reputation for delivering safe and reliable engineering solutions. This role is fundamental to the successful execution of National Grid's Transmission & Distribution capital program.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise in CDM Regulations, becoming a recognized authority within the utilities and infrastructure sectors, potentially leading to Principal Designer roles on even larger or more complex projects.

• Leadership Development: Progress into management roles, such as Head of Health & Safety or a Senior Project Manager overseeing multiple projects with a strong safety component. This could involve managing teams of safety professionals and contributing to organizational safety strategy.

• Cross-Functional Expertise: Gain broader exposure to project management, FEED processes, and construction delivery, enabling a transition into more holistic project leadership roles. Opportunities for professional development and training are explicitly mentioned, supporting skill enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal" title signifies a senior expert role with significant autonomy and potential for leadership. Growth opportunities are geared towards deepening technical specialization, moving into management, or broadening project delivery experience.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

BakerHicks offers a hybrid working model, indicating a blend of office-based work and remote flexibility. Their offices are described as "appealing, friendly and comfortable spaces, easily accessible by car or public transport." This suggests a professional yet welcoming environment conducive to collaboration and focused work. For a PDR role, this likely means dedicated office space for documentation, meetings, and team coordination, complemented by the ability to work from home for administrative tasks or focused analysis.

Office Location(s):

While the job is posted for "United Kingdom," BakerHicks has multiple offices across the UK. The specific office location for this role would need to be confirmed, but the hybrid nature implies that while the role is UK-based, there might be flexibility in the primary office location or a designated hub. Accessibility by public transport and car is highlighted, suggesting convenient office locations.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid nature provides flexibility for operations professionals to manage their schedules, balancing collaborative team interactions with focused individual work.

• Access to necessary technology and software for safety management, design review, and project communication will be standard. This includes tools for documentation, risk registers, and collaborative platforms.

Work Schedule:

A standard 40-hour work week is typical, with the hybrid arrangement offering flexibility in how and where these hours are completed. However, as noted, the demands of infrastructure projects may occasionally require flexibility to meet critical deadlines or attend urgent site-based activities, especially during peak construction phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key feature, offering flexibility. The emphasis on accessible and comfortable office spaces suggests a positive work environment that supports both individual focus and team collaboration, crucial for a role requiring extensive stakeholder interaction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

The interview process for a Principal Designer role at BakerHicks, particularly for a security-cleared position, will likely be multi-stage:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application by HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications and experience, focusing on CDM, PDR, and National Grid familiarity.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager (likely a senior project lead or Head of Safety) to evaluate your technical expertise, leadership style, and understanding of CDM Regulations 2015. Be prepared to discuss your experience with SR188 and design risk management.

3. Technical/Team Interview: This may involve a panel interview with other senior team members or subject matter experts. You might be asked to present a case study from your portfolio or discuss how you would approach specific challenges related to design risk and compliance.

4. Final Interview/Assessment: Potentially a final discussion with a senior director or a more formal assessment centre exercise, depending on the security requirements and role criticality. This stage often assesses cultural fit and strategic alignment.

5. Security Clearance: For roles requiring it, a separate, thorough process managed by government agencies will follow a conditional offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio with clear sections for each project, highlighting your specific role as PDR or CDM Advisor.

• CDM Focus: Emphasize your direct contributions to CDM compliance, including the development of PCI, H&S Files, and Design Risk Registers.

• Risk Management: Detail your process for conducting HAZID/HAZOP sessions and design risk workshops. Showcase how you identified hazards, assessed risks, and implemented mitigation strategies. Quantify outcomes where possible (e.g., "Reduced identified risks by X%").

• National Grid/SR188: If you have experience with National Grid projects, showcase this prominently. Clearly articulate your understanding and application of SR188 requirements.

• Visuals: Use diagrams, flowcharts, and simplified examples to illustrate complex processes or design considerations.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to walk through your portfolio efficiently, highlighting key achievements and lessons learned.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Expect questions like: "How would you handle a situation where a designer is resistant to implementing safety recommendations?" or "Describe your process for ensuring effective communication of residual risks to contractors on a live site."

• CDM Application: Be ready to discuss the practical application of specific CDM Regulations (e.g., duties of the Principal Designer, requirements for PCI).

• Risk Workshop Facilitation: You might be asked to outline how you would plan and run a HAZID session for a specific type of transmission asset.

• Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of how you have successfully managed conflicting priorities or perspectives among different project stakeholders (client, designers, contractors).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, with a strong emphasis on practical application of CDM regulations and experience with National Grid projects. A well-prepared portfolio is essential for demonstrating competence in risk management and compliance.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CDM Compliance Software: Tools for managing Design Risk Registers, Pre-Construction Information (PCI), and Health and Safety Files. Examples might include specialized CDM software or integrated project management platforms.

• Risk Management Tools: Software for conducting and documenting Hazard Identification (HAZID), Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) studies, FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis), and other risk assessment methodologies.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for real-time communication, document sharing, and team coordination across dispersed teams and sites.

• Document Management Systems: Platforms for storing, organizing, and version-controlling project documentation, ensuring easy access to critical safety files and design information.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Project Management Software: Tools such as MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar for scheduling, resource allocation, and tracking project progress, which can be used to monitor safety milestones.

• Reporting Tools: Standard office suites (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace) for creating reports, presentations, and data summaries on CDM compliance and safety performance.

• Data Visualization Tools: Potentially used for presenting safety performance metrics and trends to stakeholders, though less common for a PDR role unless part of a larger operations analytics function.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how project and client information is managed is beneficial. Familiarity with project-specific databases or client relationship management within project delivery contexts may be relevant.

• Automation might be applied to report generation or workflow management for compliance checks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack will focus on specialized safety and project management tools. Proficiency in standard office suites and collaboration platforms is assumed, with a strong emphasis on tools that support rigorous documentation and risk assessment processes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety Excellence: A paramount value, driving a culture where health, safety, and wellbeing are non-negotiable priorities in all design and construction activities. This translates to meticulous adherence to CDM regulations and a proactive approach to risk mitigation.

• Collaboration: Strong emphasis on working effectively within multidisciplinary teams, with clients (National Grid), and with contractors. This involves open communication, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to project success and safety.

• Integrity and Compliance: Upholding the highest ethical standards and ensuring strict adherence to all relevant regulations, particularly CDM 2015 and National Grid's SR188 framework.

• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: A forward-thinking approach to design and project delivery, seeking opportunities to improve safety processes, design outcomes, and overall project efficiency. This includes embracing new methodologies and technologies.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Engagement: Actively participating in design meetings, risk workshops, and site visits to ensure safety is integrated from the outset and maintained throughout.

• Clear Communication: Maintaining transparent and timely communication with all stakeholders regarding design risks, compliance requirements, and safety performance.

• Constructive Feedback: Providing and receiving feedback constructively to foster a learning environment and drive continuous improvement in safety practices.

• Solution-Oriented: Working collaboratively to find practical and effective solutions to safety challenges, rather than simply identifying problems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values are deeply rooted in safety, collaboration, and integrity, which are essential for a role managing critical infrastructure projects under strict regulatory frameworks like CDM.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Freedom with Safety Constraints: Navigating the inherent tension between innovative design solutions and the strict requirements of CDM Regulations and safety protocols. This requires strong negotiation and influencing skills.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders with Diverse Priorities: Effectively coordinating and aligning the expectations of National Grid, various design disciplines, and multiple contractors, each with their own objectives and risk appetites.

• Ensuring Compliance Across Complex, Evolving Projects: The dynamic nature of large infrastructure projects can present unforeseen challenges. Maintaining rigorous CDM compliance requires constant vigilance and adaptability.

• Navigating Security Clearance Requirements: For roles involving national infrastructure, obtaining and maintaining the necessary security clearance can be a complex and time-consuming process.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized CDM Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of CDM Regulations or advanced risk assessment techniques.

• Industry Conferences and Seminars: Attending events focused on health and safety in construction and infrastructure to stay abreast of best practices and regulatory changes.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to senior leaders within BakerHicks or the Morgan Sindall Group for guidance on career progression and leadership development.

• Professional Accreditation Support: Encouragement and potential support for maintaining or advancing professional memberships (APS, IOSH, etc.).

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior roles in complex, regulated industries. The growth opportunities are focused on deepening specialized expertise and leadership within the safety and operations domain.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience as a Principal Designer Representative (PDR) under a framework like National Grid's SR188. What were your key responsibilities and challenges?" (Focus on demonstrating understanding of framework-specific duties and proactive risk management.)

• "How do you approach leading design risk management processes, including HAZID and HAZOP sessions? Walk us through your methodology and how you ensure effective outcomes." (Highlight your facilitation skills, systematic approach, and ability to drive action.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about BakerHicks and our work in the Transmission & Distribution sector? Why are you interested in this role specifically?" (Showcase your research into the company, its projects, and how your values align with theirs, particularly regarding safety and sustainability.)

• "How do you contribute to fostering a strong health, safety, and wellbeing culture within project teams?" (Provide specific examples of initiatives you've led or participated in.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Prioritize Impact: Select 2-3 of your most relevant and impactful projects. For each, clearly state the project type, your role, and the key CDM/safety challenges addressed.

• Quantify Outcomes: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your interventions (e.g., reduction in design-related hazards, successful completion of H&S files on time, positive client feedback on compliance).

• Process Demonstration: Use flowcharts or diagrams to visually represent your processes for risk assessment, workshop facilitation, and documentation management.

• SR188/National Grid Focus: If applicable, dedicate a section or highlight within your presentation how you've applied SR188 requirements or similar complex framework protocols.

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio items as mini-case studies, explaining the context, your actions, and the results, illustrating your problem-solving capabilities and expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating deep knowledge of CDM Regulations, practical experience with risk management methodologies, and strong stakeholder management skills, especially within the context of UK infrastructure projects.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Principal Designer - CDM position:

• Submit your application through the BakerHicks careers portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV to highlight specific experience with CDM Regulations 2015, Principal Designer roles, SR188 framework, and National Grid projects. Prepare a concise portfolio showcasing 2-3 key projects with a focus on design risk management and compliance deliverables.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your years of experience, relevant qualifications (NEBOSH, APS, IOSH, etc.), and specific achievements in safety and compliance management. Use keywords from the job description such as "CDM Regulations 2015," "Principal Designer," "SR188," "HAZID," and "Health and Safety Files."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare to discuss your approach to design risk management and stakeholder engagement, and be ready to present key aspects of your portfolio.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with BakerHicks' projects, values, and their role in the Transmission & Distribution sector. Understand the importance of National Grid's infrastructure and the implications of security clearance for this role.

⚠️ 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.