Remote Lead Environmental Scientist

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 72,000 - 108,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Flexible remote work

Professional development

Remote tooling support

Inclusive remote culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Environmental Scientist for a fully remote role. Based in Welkom, South Africa, you will develop and implement comprehensive environmental management strategies across mining operations, lead a team of professionals, and ensure regulatory compliance and best practices in rehabilitation and closure.

You will drive environmental stewardship, mentor staff, and deliver detailed regulatory reports while maintaining a remote-first culture and cross-border collaboration.

Qualifications

• Master's degree required in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or a related field.
• At least 9 years of experience in environmental management within mining or heavy industry.
• Proven experience in EIAs and EMPs.
• Strong knowledge of South African environmental legislation and permitting processes.
• Experience with mine rehabilitation and closure planning and execution.
• Excellent data analysis, reporting, and communication skills.
• Leadership and team management capabilities.
• Proficiency in GIS software and environmental modeling tools is an asset.
• Ability to work independently and in a remote team setting.
• Professional accreditation (e.g., EAPSA) is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage EMPs for mining projects.
• Conduct EIAs and Environmental Audits.
• Oversee water, air, and soil quality monitoring programs.
• Develop and manage mine rehabilitation and closure plans.
• Ensure compliance with national and international environmental regulations.
• Provide expert advice on environmental best practices and risk mitigation.
• Lead and mentor a team of environmental officers and technicians.
• Prepare detailed environmental reports for regulatory bodies and stakeholders.
• Investigate and manage environmental incidents and emergencies.
• Promote environmental awareness and training across the organization.

Skills

Data analysis

Reporting

Communication

Leadership

Team management

Education

Master's degree in Environmental Science/Environmental Management

Tools

GIS software

Environmental modeling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking mining enterprise committed to sustainable practices, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Lead Environmental Scientist for a fully remote position. Based in Welkom , Free State, you will be instrumental in developing and implementing comprehensive environmental management strategies across our diverse mining operations. This role requires a deep understanding of environmental legislation, impact assessment methodologies, and best practices in mine rehabilitation and closure. You will lead a team of environmental professionals, ensuring compliance, driving innovation in environmental stewardship, and fostering a culture of responsibility. As a remote-first organization, we provide the tools and support necessary for you to excel from any location. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on the environmental performance of a major mining player.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage environmental management plans (EMPs) for mining projects.


• Conduct Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and Environmental Audits.


• Oversee water, air, and soil quality monitoring programs.


• Develop and manage mine rehabilitation and closure plans.


• Ensure compliance with all national and international environmental regulations.


• Provide expert advice on environmental best practices and risk mitigation.


• Lead and mentor a team of environmental officers and technicians.


• Prepare detailed environmental reports for regulatory bodies and stakeholders.


• Investigate and manage environmental incidents and emergencies.


• Promote environmental awareness and training throughout the organization.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or a related field.


• Minimum of 9 years of experience in environmental management within the mining or heavy industry sector.


• Proven experience in conducting EIAs and developing EMPs.


• Strong knowledge of South African environmental legislation and permitting processes.


• Experience with mine rehabilitation and closure planning and execution.


• Excellent data analysis, reporting, and communication skills.


• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities.


• Proficiency in GIS software and environmental modeling tools is an asset.


• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote team setting.


• Professional accreditation (e.g., EAPSA registration) is highly preferred.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance incentives.


• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.


• Flexible remote work arrangement with robust technological support.


• Significant opportunities for professional development and continued education.


• Chance to influence environmental strategy at a senior level.


• Exposure to a wide range of innovative environmental projects.


• A supportive and inclusive remote work culture.