Remote Legal Counsel - Mining Compliance

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 126,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Remote Legal Counsel specialized in Mining Compliance to advise on South African mining regulation, environmental and safety matters, and licensing issues for remote operations. You will support governance and risk management across mining projects and liaise with regulators.

The role requires a strong background in mining and environmental law, with the ability to work independently and deliver practical compliance strategies in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• LLB or equivalent legal qualification.
• Admitted as Attorney/Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• 8+ years post-qualification experience focused on mining, environmental and regulatory compliance.
• In-depth knowledge of South African mining legislation, regulations and industry practices.
• Experience advising on complex environmental and safety compliance issues.
• Ability to work autonomously in a remote setting and manage a demanding workload.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and negotiations with government entities.

Responsibilities

• Advise on and ensure compliance with the MPRDA and associated regulations.
• Interpret and advise on EIAs and related legislation.
• Ensure adherence to OHS laws within mining operations.
• Manage legal aspects of mining licenses, permits, and prospecting rights.
• Develop and implement corporate policies and procedures to ensure ongoing legal compliance.
• Liaise with the DMRE and other regulatory bodies.
• Provide legal support for community consultation and social license to operate initiatives.
• Manage legal risks associated with mining operations, including environmental liabilities and community disputes.
• Conduct legal training for operational teams on compliance matters.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Strategic thinking

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Autonomy

Stakeholder engagement

Education

LLB degree or equivalent

Admitted as Attorney/Advocate of SA High Court

Job description

About the Role Our client, a major player in the mining industry, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Remote Legal Counsel specializing in Mining Compliance. This position is critical for ensuring adherence to all legal and regulatory requirements governing mining operations across South Africa. The role is based remotely, allowing for flexible working arrangements from anywhere in the country. You will be the primary point of contact for all compliance-related legal matters, advising on environmental legislation, safety regulations, mining rights, and community engagement. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned legal professional to make a significant impact within a challenging and vital sector, offering substantial autonomy and the ability to shape compliance strategies. The role requires a deep understanding of the mining sector's legal intricacies and a proactive approach to risk mitigation.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise on and ensure compliance with the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA) and associated regulations.
• Interpret and advise on environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and related legislation.
• Ensure adherence to occupational health and safety (OHS) laws within mining operations.
• Manage legal aspects of mining licenses, permits, and prospecting rights.
• Develop and implement corporate policies and procedures to ensure ongoing legal compliance.
• Liaise with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) and other regulatory bodies.
• Provide legal support for community consultation and social license to operate initiatives.
• Manage legal risks associated with mining operations, including environmental liabilities and community disputes.
• Conduct legal training for operational teams on compliance matters.

Requirements

• An LLB degree or equivalent legal qualification.
• Admitted as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• A minimum of 8 years of post-qualification experience, with a significant focus on mining law, environmental law, and regulatory compliance.
• In-depth knowledge of South African mining legislation, regulations, and industry practices.
• Proven experience in advising on complex environmental and safety compliance issues.
• Strong understanding of corporate governance principles within the mining sector.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal issues clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and manage a demanding workload in a remote setting.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and negotiation with government entities.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-related bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Flexible working hours and a fully remote work environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in mining law.
• Significant impact and influence on company-wide compliance strategies.
• Direct engagement with senior leadership on critical legal matters.