Community Engagement Officer - Mining Impact

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

provident fund

Professional development opportunities

Competitive salary

Job summary

Our client, a mining company operating in Soweto, Gauteng, is seeking a dedicated Community Engagement Officer. You will lead engagement plans, liaise with community leaders, NGOs, and local government, and drive social development initiatives with a focus on responsible mining practices.

The role requires strong interpersonal skills, cultural awareness, and the ability to navigate diverse communities while maintaining transparent two-way communication.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in social sciences or related field.
• 4+ years of experience in community engagement, stakeholder relations or similar.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and mediation skills.
• Fluency in local Soweto-area languages is a plus.
• Proficiency in developing engagement plans and reporting on activities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive community engagement plans aligned with company objectives and local needs.
• Act as the main point of contact for community members, local leaders, and stakeholders, addressing inquiries and concerns.
• Organize and facilitate community meetings, workshops and information sessions.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community representatives, NGOs, and local government officials.
• Monitor community sentiment and provide regular reports to senior management on engagement outcomes.
• Support social investment and development programs in collaboration with the community.
• Identify social risks and opportunities and develop mitigation strategies.
• Maintain effective communication channels for two-way dialogue with the community.
• Assist in conflict resolution and grievance processes.
• Contribute to CSR reporting and initiatives.

Skills

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Negotiation

Mediation

Relationship building

Community outreach

People skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a mining company with significant operations impacting the communities around Soweto, Gauteng , is seeking a dedicated and empathetic Community Engagement Officer . This crucial role serves as the primary liaison between the company and local communities, ensuring effective communication, addressing concerns, and fostering positive relationships. You will be responsible for developing and implementing community engagement strategies, managing stakeholder expectations, and supporting socio-economic development initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess strong interpersonal skills, a deep understanding of community dynamics, and a commitment to responsible mining practices. This position requires a proactive individual who can navigate diverse social landscapes and build trust. We are looking for someone passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of community members and ensuring that mining operations are conducted with social responsibility at the forefront, contributing positively to the Gauteng region. The hybrid nature allows for essential on-site interactions and flexible administrative work.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive community engagement plans aligned with company objectives and local needs.


• Act as the main point of contact for community members, local leaders, and relevant stakeholders, addressing inquiries and concerns promptly and professionally.


• Organize and facilitate community meetings, workshops, and information sessions to disseminate project updates and gather feedback.


• Build and maintain strong, trusting relationships with community representatives, NGOs, and local government officials.


• Monitor community sentiment and provide regular reports to senior management on key issues and engagement outcomes.


• Support the development and implementation of social investment and development programs in consultation with the community.


• Identify potential social risks and opportunities associated with mining operations and develop mitigation and enhancement strategies.


• Ensure effective communication channels are maintained, facilitating two-way dialogue between the company and the community.


• Assist in conflict resolution and grievance management processes.


• Contribute to the company's corporate social responsibility (CSR) reporting and initiatives.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Communication, Public Relations, or a related field.


• A minimum of 4 years of experience in community engagement, stakeholder relations, or a similar role, preferably within the mining or extractive industries.


• Proven experience in building and managing relationships with diverse community groups and stakeholders.


• Excellent communication, negotiation, and mediation skills.


• Strong understanding of social dynamics, development issues, and community-based participatory approaches.


• Proficiency in developing engagement plans and reporting on activities.


• Ability to work effectively in a sensitive and challenging environment.


• Fluency in local languages relevant to the Soweto area is a significant asset.


• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a provident fund, and opportunities for professional development. This role provides a meaningful opportunity to contribute to sustainable mining practices and community well-being in the vibrant Soweto area and the broader Gauteng province. Join a team committed to positive social impact.