Mine Environmental Officer - Compliance & Sustainability

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Remote work flexibility

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mine Environmental Officer for a fully remote role in the mining sector. You will ensure compliance with environmental legislation, develop EMS in line with ISO 14001, and lead audits, EMPs, and training across sites.

You will liaise with regulators, management, and site teams, manage permits, report findings, and promote sustainable practices while maintaining strong analytical and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in environmental management, mining preferred.
• Solid knowledge of SA environmental legislation (NEMA) and mining regulations.
• Experience with EIAs and Environmental Management Plans (EMPs).

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage EMS in line with ISO 14001.
• Conduct EIAs and monitor key environmental parameters.
• Ensure compliance with environmental permits and licenses.
• Prepare reports to regulators and internal management.
• Deliver environmental training to personnel and contractors.
• Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions.
• Oversee waste management, rehabilitation, and biodiversity.
• Collaborate with site teams to integrate env considerations into planning.
• Stay updated on legislation and best practices.
• Promote sustainability across the organization.

Skills

Environmental management

Auditing

Regulatory compliance

Stakeholder engagement

ISO 14001

Education

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science/Management

Tools

MS Office

ISO 14001 auditing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a responsible mining operator dedicated to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship, is seeking a motivated Mine Environmental Officer. This role is fully remote, allowing you to contribute to crucial environmental management and compliance efforts from a location of your choice. The Mine Environmental Officer will be responsible for ensuring that all mining operations adhere to environmental legislation, company policies, and best practices. You will play a vital role in developing, implementing, and monitoring environmental management plans, conducting audits, and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility across the organization. This position requires a strong understanding of environmental science, mining regulations, and sustainability principles. We are looking for an individual with excellent analytical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, operational teams, and community representatives. Your work will directly contribute to the long-term environmental viability of our client's mining projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage environmental management systems (EMS) in line with ISO 14001 standards and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct regular environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and monitor key environmental parameters (water quality, air emissions, noise levels, rehabilitation progress).
• Ensure compliance with all applicable environmental legislation, permits, and licenses.
• Prepare and submit environmental reports to regulatory authorities and internal management.
• Develop and deliver environmental training programs to site personnel and contractors.
• Investigate and report on environmental incidents, and implement corrective and preventative actions.
• Oversee waste management, rehabilitation, and biodiversity conservation initiatives.
• Collaborate with site managers and operational teams to integrate environmental considerations into mine planning and daily operations.
• Stay up-to-date with changes in environmental legislation and industry best practices.
• Promote environmental awareness and a culture of sustainability within the organization.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in environmental management, specifically within the mining sector.
• Proven knowledge of South African environmental legislation and regulations pertaining to mining (e.g., NEMA).
• Experience with Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and the development of Environmental Management Plans (EMPs).
• Familiarity with ISO 14001 standards and auditing processes.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and reporting skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively in a remote setting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to operational sites occasionally for audits and oversight.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers the ultimate flexibility, allowing you to work from anywhere while making a significant contribution to environmental protection in the mining sector. Our client provides a competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, and opportunities for professional development. Join a forward-thinking company committed to responsible mining and sustainability, where your expertise will be valued and contribute to a greener future for the industry.