Environmental Project Manager

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development and training

Impactful conservation work

Team-oriented culture

Fieldwork opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Environmental Project Manager in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal to lead biodiversity conservation projects, sustainable resource management, and environmental education initiatives. The role involves planning, executing, and closing complex projects on time and within budget while adhering to environmental standards.

The successful candidate will oversee diverse teams, cultivate partnerships with government, communities, NGOs and corporate partners, and ensure compliance

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, Environmental Management, or related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in project management within the environmental sector, preferably in KwaZulu-Natal.
• Experience in managing conservation, restoration, or sustainable development projects.
• In-depth knowledge of environmental legislation and conservation principles relevant to South Africa.
• Strong leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent planning, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in project management software and standard office applications.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and community liaison is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed project plans, including scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocation for environmental projects in Richards Bay.
• Lead and manage project teams, ensuring effective collaboration and task execution.
• Oversee project implementation, monitor progress, and identify/mitigate risks and issues.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and standards.
• Manage stakeholder relationships, including government agencies, local communities, NGOs, and corporate partners.
• Prepare regular project reports, including progress updates, financial statements, and impact assessments.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for new environmental initiatives.
• Manage project budgets, track expenditures, and ensure financial accountability.
• Organize and facilitate project meetings, workshops, and public consultations.
• Contribute to the development of new project proposals and funding applications.

Skills

Project management

Team leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Regulatory compliance

Field coordination

Education

Master's or PhD in Environmental Science/Conservation Biology/Environmental Management

Tools

MS Project

Asana

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading environmental conservation organization, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Environmental Project Manager to oversee critical initiatives in the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal region. This role is pivotal in managing projects focused on biodiversity conservation, sustainable resource management, and environmental education. The successful candidate will be responsible for planning, executing, and closing environmental projects, ensuring they meet objectives on time and within budget, while adhering to strict environmental standards. This is a field-intensive role requiring a strong understanding of local ecosystems and community engagement. We are looking for a passionate individual who can lead diverse teams and foster collaborative partnerships to achieve significant environmental outcomes in Richards Bay and its surrounding areas. The organization is committed to preserving the natural heritage of KwaZulu-Natal.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop detailed project plans, including scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocation for environmental projects in Richards Bay.
• Lead and manage project teams, ensuring effective collaboration and task execution.
• Oversee project implementation, monitor progress, and identify/mitigate risks and issues.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and standards.
• Manage stakeholder relationships, including government agencies, local communities, NGOs, and corporate partners.
• Prepare regular project reports, including progress updates, financial statements, and impact assessments.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for new environmental initiatives.
• Manage project budgets, track expenditures, and ensure financial accountability.
• Organize and facilitate project meetings, workshops, and public consultations.
• Contribute to the development of new project proposals and funding applications.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, Environmental Management, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in project management, specifically in the environmental sector, preferably in KwaZulu-Natal.
• Demonstrated experience in managing conservation, restoration, or sustainable development projects.
• In-depth knowledge of environmental legislation and conservation principles relevant to South Africa.
• Strong leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent planning, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Asana) and standard office applications.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and community liaison is essential.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce high-quality reports.
• A valid driver's license and a willingness to undertake extensive fieldwork in and around Richards Bay.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• The opportunity to lead impactful environmental conservation projects in a beautiful region.
• Work within a dedicated and passionate team committed to environmental sustainability.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Direct contribution to the ecological health of Richards Bay and KwaZulu-Natal.
• Exposure to a wide range of environmental challenges and solutions.
• Supportive organizational culture focused on achieving tangible conservation outcomes.