Senior H&S Consultant / CDM Principal Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior H&S Consultant / CDM Principal Designer

Company: AtkinsRéalis

Location: Manchester, United Kingdom / Liverpool, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time, Contractual (Fixed Term)

Category: Health, Safety & Environmental Consulting

Date Posted: May 14, 2026

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the delivery of comprehensive CDM (Construction Design and Management) services and fulfill the crucial role of Principal Designer.

• Manage and produce essential pre-construction information, Health & Safety (H&S) files, and other critical CDM-related documentation.

• Ensure strict adherence to designer compliance and regulatory standards throughout project lifecycles.

• Conduct thorough site H&S inspections and audits to maintain a safe working environment.

• Actively engage in business development initiatives to expand H&S service offerings within the region.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior H&S Consultant / CDM Principal Designer" title, coupled with responsibilities like producing pre-construction information and H&S files, and the mention of CDM 2015, strongly indicates a focus on regulatory compliance and project safety management within the construction and engineering sectors. The "Contractual (Fixed Term)" employment type suggests project-based work or a specific, time-bound contract. The hybrid work arrangement is explicitly mentioned.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Deliver Principal Designer and CDM services, acting as a key advisor on both independent commissions and as a complement to broader project delivery teams.

• Develop and author comprehensive pre-construction information packs, Health & Safety (H&S) files, and other mandatory documentation required under CDM regulations.

• Proactively ensure that all designers involved in a project comply with their legal duties and project-specific H&S requirements.

• Critically review contractor documentation, including tender submissions and construction phase plans, to ensure safety and compliance standards are met.

• Effectively interface with clients and design teams on a project-by-project basis, fostering clear communication and collaborative safety practices.

• Undertake regular site H&S inspections and audits to identify potential hazards, assess risks, and ensure mitigation measures are in place.

• Provide expert advice to clients on procurement options, consultant selection, and contractual appointment issues related to H&S and CDM.

• Drive proactive business development efforts to identify and secure new opportunities for H&S and CDM services within the designated region.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current legal developments, case law, and best practices in construction and associated health and safety legislation.

• Manage client accounts, building strong relationships and ensuring satisfaction with delivered H&S and CDM services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly map to the legal duties of a Principal Designer and CDM Consultant under UK regulations. The emphasis on client interaction, business development, and contract management suggests a senior role requiring commercial acumen alongside technical expertise. The inclusion of "Asbestos Regulations 2012" points to a specific area of H&S expertise.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Chartered/Professional Qualification in Design or Construction (e.g., Chartered Engineer, Chartered Architect, Chartered Surveyor, or equivalent).

Experience:

• Significant experience (assumed 5-10 years) in delivering CDM services and acting as a Principal Designer.

• Proven track record in a design or construction background.

Required Skills:

• In-depth knowledge and practical understanding of CDM 2015 regulations and other relevant Health & Safety legislation in the UK.

• Proficiency in producing and managing pre-construction information, H&S files, and construction phase plans.

• Strong communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex H&S information to clients, design teams, and contractors at all levels, both orally and in writing.

• Demonstrated client-facing skills, including experience in managing client relationships at a strategic and operational level.

• Excellent planning and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize workloads, manage deadlines, and adapt to changing project demands.

• Effective problem-solving and conflict resolution skills, with a solution-oriented approach to managing issues and complaints assertively.

• Working knowledge of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

• Proficiency in IT, with a working knowledge of MS 365 suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).

Preferred Skills:

• Membership of professional bodies such as APS (Association for Project Safety), IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health), CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building), CABE (Chartered Association of Building Engineers), or RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects).

• H&S Training capability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of formal certifications (NEBOSH, professional chartership) and practical experience. The preferred memberships highlight a commitment to professional development and industry standards within the H&S and construction fields. The requirement for a driving license and willingness to travel indicates the hands-on nature of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a robust understanding of the CDM 2015 lifecycle, from pre-construction planning through to project completion, showcasing your role in each phase.

• Provide specific examples of H&S files and pre-construction information packs you have authored, highlighting key content and compliance elements.

• Include case studies detailing your experience as a Principal Designer, illustrating how you managed design risk and ensured compliance for various project types.

• Showcase your ability to conduct effective site H&S inspections and audits, including sample reports demonstrating identified issues and recommended corrective actions.

Process Documentation:

• Detail your methodology for producing H&S files, including templates, review processes, and stakeholder sign-off procedures.

• Illustrate your approach to risk assessment and management within the design process, including how you identify, evaluate, and control risks at the earliest stages.

• Document your experience in reviewing contractor documentation, such as construction phase plans and method statements, and the criteria used for approval.

• Outline your strategy for ensuring designer compliance, including communication protocols, design review checkpoints, and mechanisms for addressing non-compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior H&S Consultant/CDM Principal Designer role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but demonstrate how the candidate applied H&S principles and CDM regulations. The focus should be on process, documentation, and measurable outcomes in safety and compliance.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: £50,000 - £70,000 per annum (Estimate based on Senior H&S Consultant/CDM Principal Designer roles in Manchester/Liverpool, UK, with 5-10 years of experience. This range can vary based on specific experience, qualifications, and the exact nature/duration of the contract.)

Benefits:

• Competitive Salaries: Reflecting your skills and experience.

• Employee Rewards: Acknowledging contributions and achievements.

• Flexible Holiday Allowances: Allowing for a good work-life balance.

• Training And Professional Development: Opportunities to enhance skills and gain new qualifications.

• Hybrid Working Culture: Flexibility to balance office-based and remote work.

• Pension Scheme: Contributing to long-term financial security.

• Life Assurance: Providing financial support for dependents.

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): Offering confidential support for personal and professional challenges.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered within a hybrid working model. Some travel and out-of-hours work may be required to support projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical UK market rates for a senior role in this specialized field, considering the specified locations. The provided benefits are a combination of those explicitly mentioned in the job description and standard offerings for professional roles within large engineering consultancies in the UK.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering Services & Nuclear (AtkinsRéalis is a global leader in engineering services and nuclear technology). The Buildings & Places business line specifically focuses on creating sustainable environments and infrastructure.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (AtkinsRéalis operates globally with tens of thousands of employees). This size offers stability, extensive resources, and a wide range of project opportunities.

Founded: The company has a long history, with Atkins being founded in 1938 and SNC-Lavalin (now AtkinsRéalis) having roots stretching back even further. This longevity signifies a stable and established organization with deep industry expertise.

Team Structure:

• Part of the North Health & Safety team, which is within the wider Buildings & Places business. This suggests a specialized H&S unit integrated into a larger project delivery framework.

• Likely a matrixed reporting structure, where individual consultants report to H&S leadership but also work directly for project managers and client teams.

Methodology:

• Data-driven approach to project delivery and H&S management, utilizing project data for risk assessment and compliance monitoring.

• Focus on proactive risk management and preventative strategies, aligning with CDM 2015 principles.

• Commitment to continuous improvement in H&S practices and client service delivery.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's global presence and extensive history in engineering and infrastructure development provide context for the scale and complexity of projects this role will support. The "Buildings & Places" division suggests a focus on built environment projects, making H&S and CDM roles critical for compliance and safety.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Consultant / Principal Designer. This level indicates significant autonomy, responsibility for complex projects, and a leadership role in H&S strategy and delivery. It's a position that requires not only deep technical expertise but also strong client management and business development acumen.

Reporting Structure: The role reports into the North Health & Safety team within the Buildings & Places business. This implies working under a senior H&S manager or director, while also being accountable to project managers and clients for specific project deliverables.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and critical impact on ensuring the safety of personnel on construction sites, the compliance of projects with legal regulations, and the successful, risk-mitigated delivery of infrastructure and building projects. Positive impact leads to reduced accidents, fewer project delays due to H&S issues, and enhanced client trust.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like fire safety, occupational health, or environmental H&S within construction.

• Leadership: Progress to a Senior Principal Designer, H&S Manager, or Regional H&S Director role, managing larger teams and portfolios.

• Client Management: Develop into a key account manager for major clients, shaping their H&S strategies.

• Training & Development: Benefit from AtkinsRéalis's commitment to professional development, potentially leading to further qualifications, certifications, or specialized training programs.

• Sector Expansion: Gain experience across a wider range of project sectors, increasing versatility and marketability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Senior" title and the nature of CDM Principal Designer work, significant growth opportunities lie in leadership, strategic account management, and deeper specialization within H&S. The company's global reach offers potential for international experience or involvement in larger, more complex projects.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. The role is based in either Manchester or Liverpool offices but allows for flexible working arrangements, indicating a blend of office presence and remote work.

Office Location(s): Manchester (Piccadilly) and Liverpool, United Kingdom. These are major urban centers with access to a wide range of construction and development projects.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close collaboration with design teams, project managers, and clients, suggesting an office environment conducive to team meetings and discussions.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to standard office IT infrastructure, MS 365 suite, and potentially specialized H&S management software and project management tools used by AtkinsRéalis.

• Fieldwork: Significant time will likely be spent on construction sites, requiring adaptability to dynamic and varied site conditions.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week) with a degree of flexibility. The hybrid model allows for managing personal commitments alongside project deadlines. Occasional travel and out-of-hours work are expected for site visits and project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role suggests a modern work environment that values flexibility. However, the hands-on requirements of site inspections and client meetings in a consulting capacity mean that the role is not fully remote and requires active engagement from the office and project locations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application, focusing on relevant H&S qualifications, CDM experience, and professional memberships.

• First Interview: Likely with an H&S Manager or Senior Consultant. This stage will assess technical knowledge of CDM 2015, H&S legislation, and practical experience through situational and behavioral questions. Be prepared to discuss your approach to key responsibilities.

• Second Interview/Assessment: May involve a presentation based on a hypothetical project scenario or a case study requiring you to act as a Principal Designer. This stage will evaluate your problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and strategic thinking. A portfolio review may also occur here.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader or business director to assess cultural fit, business development potential, and long-term career aspirations within AtkinsRéalis.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, with clear sections for different project types, responsibilities (e.g., Principal Designer, H&S Consultant), and key documents (e.g., sample H&S files, risk assessments).

• Highlight Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the positive outcomes achieved (e.g., reduction in incidents, compliance achieved, successful project delivery). Quantify results where possible.

• CDM Focus: Specifically showcase your understanding and application of CDM 2015 duties, including pre-construction information, risk management, and coordination between duty holders.

• Professionalism: Ensure all documents are professionally presented, well-formatted, and free from errors. Respect client confidentiality by anonymizing sensitive project details where necessary.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to walk through your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most relevant examples for the role.

Challenge Preparation:

• CDM Scenarios: Practice answering questions related to common CDM challenges, such as managing design changes, coordinating multiple contractors, or dealing with unsafe work practices on site.

• Risk Assessment: Be ready to discuss your process for identifying, assessing, and controlling risks on complex construction projects.

• Client Communication: Prepare examples of how you would communicate difficult H&S messages or advise clients on challenging H&S decisions.

• Business Development: Think about how you would approach identifying new H&S service opportunities and engaging potential clients in the region.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior consulting role will invariably involve technical assessments, case studies, and discussions about business development. A well-prepared, relevant portfolio is non-negotiable and should directly address the core responsibilities of a CDM Principal Designer.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• MS 365 Suite: Essential for document creation (Word), data analysis (Excel), communication (Outlook), and collaboration (Teams).

• Project Management Software: Likely exposure to or proficiency with tools like MS Project, Primavera P6, or AtkinsRéalis's internal project management systems for tracking project timelines and resources.

• H&S Management Systems: Potential use of specialized software for incident reporting, risk assessment management, audit tracking, and compliance monitoring (e.g., RiskSTOP, Alcumus ISOQ, or similar platforms).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: For data analysis, creating spreadsheets for risk registers, compliance checklists, and performance metrics.

• Power BI / Tableau (Potentially): For creating visual dashboards to report on H&S performance, trends, and key metrics to clients and senior management.

• Reporting Tools: Standard reporting functionalities within H&S management systems or custom-built reports for client updates.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Software (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics): For client account management, tracking business development leads, and managing client interactions.

• Automation Tools (Internal/External): While not explicitly stated, AtkinsRéalis, as a large engineering firm, likely utilizes automation for certain reporting tasks, data processing, or workflow management within their project delivery and H&S functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with core Microsoft Office tools is a given. The key is to demonstrate an ability to leverage technology for effective H&S management, compliance tracking, and client reporting. Familiarity with industry-specific H&S software is a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to health and safety, embedded in all decision-making and project execution.

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in client interactions, advice, and project delivery.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented approach, working effectively with colleagues, clients, and contractors to achieve shared safety goals.

• Excellence: Striving for high-quality service delivery, continuous improvement, and exceeding client expectations.

• Innovation: Embracing new technologies and methodologies to enhance H&S practices and project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with design, engineering, and project management teams to integrate H&S considerations seamlessly into project planning and execution.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open, clear, and regular communication channels with all stakeholders, including clients, design teams, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to the team's collective expertise by sharing best practices, lessons learned, and insights from projects.

• Constructive Feedback: Participating in and providing constructive feedback during design reviews, site inspections, and team meetings to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: As a leading engineering consultancy, AtkinsRéalis likely emphasizes a culture of professionalism, technical expertise, and client focus. The H&S team's values will align with these, with a strong emphasis on ethical conduct and a commitment to safety as a core business principle.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Regulatory Complexity: Navigating the evolving landscape of H&S legislation and CDM regulations, ensuring up-to-date knowledge and application.

• Diverse Projects: Managing H&S and Principal Designer duties across a wide array of project types, each with unique risks and challenges.

• Client Expectations: Balancing client commercial objectives with stringent H&S requirements, often requiring strong negotiation and communication skills.

• Site Conditions: Adapting to varied and potentially hazardous site environments, requiring robust risk assessment and control measures.

• Business Development: Proactively generating new business and managing client relationships in a competitive market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Certifications: Pursuing further specialized H&S qualifications or certifications relevant to specific sectors or disciplines.

• CDM Updates: Participating in workshops and training sessions focused on new developments and interpretations of CDM regulations.

• Leadership Training: Developing skills in team management, client relationship management, and business strategy.

• Industry Conferences: Attending H&S and construction industry events to network and stay abreast of emerging trends and best practices.

• Mentorship: Benefitting from mentorship programs within AtkinsRéalis, learning from experienced professionals in the field.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role are significant but also present excellent opportunities for professional growth. Mastering complex regulations and diverse project demands will build a strong foundation for career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience as a Principal Designer under CDM 2015. What are the key duties and how do you ensure compliance?" - Prepare a structured answer detailing your understanding of the PD role and providing specific project examples.

• "How would you approach developing a Health & Safety file for a complex mixed-use development?" - Outline your process, including information gathering, risk assessment, and stakeholder input.

• "Imagine a contractor on site is not adhering to the Construction Phase Plan. What steps would you take?" - Focus on your communication, escalation, and problem-resolution strategies.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for AtkinsRéalis, and specifically in our Buildings & Places business?" - Research the company's recent projects, values, and their approach to H&S and sustainability.

• "How do you align with our company values of Safety, Integrity, Collaboration, Excellence, and Innovation?" - Prepare specific examples from your career that demonstrate these values.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• The STAR Method: For case studies, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate your contributions and the impact of your work.

• Visual Aids: If presenting digitally, use clear visuals (diagrams, charts, photos where appropriate and anonymized) to illustrate your points.

• Conciseness & Focus: Be prepared to present your most impactful projects within a set timeframe, focusing on how you addressed H&S and CDM requirements.

• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your project choices, decision-making processes, and any challenges encountered. Be ready to discuss your professional judgment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical competence in H&S and CDM but also strong communication, problem-solving, and business acumen. The portfolio is your primary tool to showcase practical application of your skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior H&S Consultant / CDM Principal Designer position:

• Submit your application through the AtkinsRéalis careers portal, ensuring all sections are completed accurately.

• Customize Your CV: Tailor your CV to highlight your NEBOSH qualification, professional chartership, specific CDM 2015 experience, and client-facing achievements. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile a professional portfolio that showcases your work on projects where you acted as a Principal Designer or delivered key H&S consultancy services. Include sample H&S files, pre-construction information, risk assessments, and case studies illustrating your problem-solving and impact.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions related to CDM regulations, H&S best practices, client management, and your experience. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Research AtkinsRéalis: Understand the company's values, recent projects, and their approach to health, safety, and sustainability. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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.