Principal designer

Rogers McHugh Recruitment; Manchester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading architectural practice is seeking an experienced Principal Designer to lead compliance and design oversight within their team in Manchester. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in design and health and safety, with a focus on maintaining best practices under CDM and Building Regulations. This role offers an exciting opportunity for professional growth with flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Flexible working hours

Career progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience within Design, Project Management, or Health & Safety roles in construction.
• Strong working knowledge of the Building Safety Act 2022 and compliance regulations.
• Attention to detail and strong documentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Support project teams on Principal Designer duties.
• Contribute to design work and health and safety input.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Manage ongoing CPD related to health and safety.

Skills

Design experience

Project management

Building control knowledge

Health & Safety expertise

Interpersonal skills

Job description

Job Title: Principal Designer

Location: Stockport

Salary: £40,000 £50,000 (dependent on experience)

Start Date: Immediate

About the Role:

A leading architectural practice is seeking a Principal Designer to take on a senior position within their team. This is an exciting opportunity for a self‑motivated and experienced professional to lead the practice in discharging its Principal Designer duties under CDM & Building Regulations.

The successful individual will provide support and guidance to staff across the practice, influence design development, and play a key role in maintaining compliance and best practice in health and safety. Working within an established PD team, you’ll gain exposure to a wide range of building types and projects, with opportunities for professional growth and development.

Why This Role is Exciting:

• Shape and lead Principal Designer functions within a respected practice
• Supportive environment that encourages professional growth and development
• Flexible working options to suit individual circumstances

Key Responsibilities:

• Support and guide project teams on all aspects of Principal Designer duties under CDM and Building Regulations
• Contribute to emerging design work and provide health and safety input across projects
• Manage and arrange ongoing CPD on all matters relating to health and safety
• Build upon and maintain existing QA systems, ensuring compliance and accurate record keeping
• Monitor project activities from inception through to completion to ensure legislative compliance
• Provide Principal Designer services on both in‑house and external projects

Ideal Candidate:

• Proven experience within Design, Project Management, Building Control, Clerk of Works, or a Health & Safety role in the construction industry
• Strong working knowledge of the Building Safety Act 2022, Secondary Legislation 2023, and the Gateway process
• Excellent understanding of health and safety, risk management, and compliance
• Attention to detail and a meticulous approach to documentation and coordination
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to influence design teams
• High ethical standards and commitment to regulatory compliance

Benefits:

• Competitive salary (£40,000 £50,000 depending on experience)
• Flexible working hours to support work/life balance
• Predominantly office-based with regular site and client visits
• Opportunities for career progression and professional development