Legal Counsel - Mining & Resources

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 1,400,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Mining projects exposure

Bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Legal Counsel in Mahikeng, North West, to support mining operations and regulatory compliance. The role focuses on mining law, environmental considerations, and robust commercial contracting within the resources sector.

You will manage complex transactions, advise on licenses and land access, and oversee contractor or stakeholder negotiations while liaising with authorities and external counsel. A strong litigation and governance background is preferred.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court with post-admission mining law experience.
• Experience advising on mining licenses, mineral rights and legislation.
• Strong contract drafting and negotiation in the resources sector.
• Solid knowledge of environmental law applicable to mining operations.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on mining law, mineral rights and related legislation.
• Draft, review and negotiate commercial agreements within the resources sector.
• Ensure compliance with mining, environmental, health and safety regulations.
• Advise on exploration, development and operational phases of mining projects.
• Oversee litigation and dispute resolution related to mining operations.
• Conduct research and advise on regulatory changes and impacts.
• Engage with government authorities, regulators and external counsel.
• Assist in corporate governance matters for the mining group.
• Advise on land access, community relations and environmental assessments.

Skills

Mining law

Environmental law

Contract negotiation

Regulatory compliance

Education

Admitted Attorney of the High Court (SA)

Tools

Legal research

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the South African mining and resources sector, is seeking an experienced Legal Counsel to join their established legal department in Mahikeng, North West . This role demands a seasoned legal professional with in-depth knowledge of mining law, environmental regulations, and commercial contracts relevant to the resources industry. The Legal Counsel will provide comprehensive legal support, manage complex transactions, ensure regulatory compliance, and advise on a wide range of legal issues affecting the company's operations. This is a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to contribute to a vital sector of the South African economy within a key operational region.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on all aspects of mining law, mineral rights, and related legislation.
• Draft, review, and negotiate commercial agreements, including supply contracts, joint venture agreements, and services agreements within the resources sector.
• Ensure compliance with mining, environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Manage and advise on legal aspects of exploration, development, and operational phases of mining projects.
• Oversee and manage litigation and dispute resolution processes related to mining operations.
• Conduct legal research and provide strategic advice on regulatory changes and their impact.
• Liaise with government authorities, regulatory bodies, and external legal counsel.
• Assist in corporate governance matters pertaining to the mining group.
• Advise on land access, community relations, and environmental impact assessments.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with a minimum of 7 years of post-admission experience, specializing in mining and resources law.
• Demonstrated experience advising on mining licenses, mineral rights, and related legislative frameworks.
• Strong understanding of commercial contracting and transactional work within the natural resources sector.
• Knowledge of environmental law and its application to mining operations is essential.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to manage complex legal issues and projects independently.
• Proficiency in legal research and standard office software.
• Experience in community engagement and stakeholder management is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with extensive experience in a specialized field.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunity to work within a leading mining operation in Mahikeng, North West .
• Professional development and continuing legal education support.
• Exposure to significant mining projects and strategic legal challenges.
• A stable and professional working environment.
• Performance-based bonuses and other incentives.