Lead Environmental Scientist

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Environmental Scientist for its Nelspruit-based team. The role focuses on leading EIAs, EMPs, and environmental monitoring across diverse sectors, coordinating with regulators, clients, and stakeholders.

The candidate should have a Master's in Environmental Science or related field with at least 8 years’ experience in environmental consulting, and strong leadership and communication capabilities to guide teams and maintain scientific integrity.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in environmental consulting or management.
• Proven experience leading EIAs and EMPs for diverse projects.
• Strong knowledge of SA environmental legislation (NEMA, MPRDA).
• GIS and environmental modeling software proficiency is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage EIAs and EMPs for projects.
• Conduct site investigations and collect environmental baseline data.
• Analyze data and prepare technical reports.
• Ensure compliance with SA environmental legislation and permitting requirements.
• Develop and implement environmental monitoring programs.
• Liaise with clients, regulators, NGOs, and stakeholders.
• Mentor junior environmental scientists and staff.
• Manage project timelines, budgets and resources.
• Support business development and client engagement.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Mentorship

Education

Master's degree in Environmental Science / Ecology

Tools

GIS

Environmental modeling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished environmental consultancy, is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Lead Environmental Scientist to join their dynamic team in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga . This senior role involves leading complex environmental impact assessments, environmental management plans, and compliance monitoring projects for a variety of industrial and development sectors. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of environmental legislation, ecological principles, and sustainable development practices. You will be responsible for managing project teams, liaising with regulatory authorities, clients, and stakeholders, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality scientific and technical outputs. Working closely with project managers and senior leadership, you will play a critical role in advising clients on environmental risks and mitigation strategies. This position, based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga , offers the opportunity to contribute significantly to sustainable development initiatives within the region. We are seeking an individual with excellent leadership qualities, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and outstanding communication abilities. Your expertise will be vital in guiding projects through complex regulatory processes and ensuring environmental protection and compliance. The successful candidate will be instrumental in maintaining our client's reputation as a leader in environmental consulting in Mpumalanga and beyond. This role demands a passionate and dedicated professional committed to environmental stewardship and scientific integrity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and environmental management plans (EMPs).
• Conduct site investigations, data collection, and environmental baseline studies.
• Analyze environmental data and prepare comprehensive technical reports.
• Ensure compliance with national and local environmental legislation and permitting requirements.
• Develop and implement environmental monitoring programs.
• Liaise with clients, government agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders.
• Mentor and guide junior environmental scientists and technical staff.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Contribute to business development activities, including proposal writing and client engagement.
• Provide expert advice on environmental best practices and risk mitigation strategies.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in environmental consulting or management.
• Proven experience in leading and managing EIAs and EMPs for diverse projects.
• In-depth knowledge of South African environmental legislation and regulations (NEMA, MPRDA, etc.).
• Proficiency in environmental modeling software and GIS is advantageous.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement and consultation.
• A commitment to scientific rigor and ethical practice.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include a comprehensive medical aid scheme, a retirement fund, and generous annual leave. Opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and career advancement within a respected environmental consultancy are provided. This role is based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga , offering the chance to work on impactful projects that promote environmental sustainability.