Economist Environmental

Energy Vault; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking an Environmental Economist to assess economic impacts of climate change in South Africa. This role combines economic development with environmental sustainability, focusing on modelling and actionable insights to promote climate resilience and transition strategies.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in economic modelling with a climate or sustainability focus.
• Strong knowledge of South African economic datasets.
• Deep understanding of climate and biodiversity policy frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Model and assess economic impacts of climate change.
• Translate data into strategies and policy recommendations.
• Analyse environmental risks and test climate scenarios.

Skills

Economic modelling

Programming in Python

Programming in R

Computable General Equilibrium models

Climate risk frameworks

Communication of modelling outcomes

Familiarity with South African economic structures

Education

Master’s degree in Economics or related field

Tools

Python

R

MATLAB

GAMS

Job description

Job Description

Are you passionate about using data and economic models to help shape a more sustainable future for South Africa?

A forward-thinking organisation is seeking a highly skilled Environmental Economist to model and assess the economic impacts of climate change and environmental policies on the South African economy. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of economic development and environmental sustainability—driving actionable insights for climate resilience and just transitions.

The successful candidate will bring advanced expertise in economic modelling, with experience utilising tools such as Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs), Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) models, and climate-econometric frameworks. You will analyse environmental risks, test climate scenarios, and translate data into high-impact strategies and policy recommendations.

Key skills and experience:

• Master’s degree in Economics, Econometrics, Environmental Economics, Climate Science, or a related field
• At least 5 years of experience in economic modelling with a climate or sustainability focus
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, MATLAB, or GAMS
• Strong knowledge of South African economic structures and datasets
• Familiarity with climate risk frameworks, including climate stress testing and scenario analysis
• Deep understanding of climate and biodiversity policy frameworks (e.g. Paris Agreement, Net Zero)
• Ability to communicate complex modelling outcomes clearly to stakeholders and leadership
• Desired: Experience with LEAP modelling and GIS/spatial tools

EE Disclaimer:
All positions will be filled in accordance with the company's Employment Equity plan. We encourage people with disabilities to apply.

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