Planning And Assessment (Esia)- Principal Environmental Consultant

SLR; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in environmental consulting seeks a Principal Environmental Consultant to oversee large-scale Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs). The role requires extensive experience, strong project management skills, and a commitment to quality assurance and client relations in a fast-paced environment. This position encourages applications from diverse candidates and those with disabilities.

Qualifications

• Over 15 years’ experience in ESIAs, especially energy-related projects.
• Sound knowledge of environmental legislation processes in South Africa.
• Proficient in MS Office and should hold a valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end implementation of large-scale ESIA and related projects.
• Ensure deliverables are technically robust and legally compliant.
• Maintain client relationships and develop winning proposals.

Skills

Project Management

Client Relationship Development

Risk Management

Quality Assurance

Mentoring

Attention to Detail

Problem-Solving

Time Management

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Hons or Master’s in Environmental or Natural Sciences

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft Excel

Job description

requires expertise in managing multidisciplinary teams and delivering high-quality outputs that meet national regulatory frameworks and international best practice standards, including those of international financial institutions and development lenders (, IFC Performance Standards, Equator Principles).

Key responsibilities include leading and overseeing the end-to-end implementation of large-scale ESIA and related environmental and social projects. This encompasses project scoping, impact assessment, report preparation, coordination of specialist studies, public and stakeholder engagement, regulatory authority consultations, and overall project management and administration.

The Principal Environmental Consultant will also ensure that all deliverables are technically robust, legally compliant, and aligned with client expectations. Strong emphasis will be placed on quality assurance, risk management, client relationship development, and mentoring of junior staff.

Key Responsibilities Minimum Requirements & Responsibilities :

• Over 15 years’ experience in ESIAs with a strong background in energy-related projects.
• Hons) or Master’s in environmental or Natural Sciences or similar qualification.
• Must have a sound knowledge of environmental legislation processes within South Africa, with an opportunity to manage ESIAs in the rest of Africa.
• Must have sound project management knowledge (methodology, proposal / report compilation, budget control, timely project completion, write-off presentation skills, etc.).
• Must develop and sustain client relationships, leading to repeat business.
• Must be able to lead the preparation and submission of winning proposals.
• Must be able to manage large, complex ESIA projects.
• Must be able to travel within South Africa and possibly other African countries.
• Must be able to complete and review reports.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint and Excel.
• Should have a valid driver’s license.

Skills / Attributes :

• Excellent command / highly proficient in spoken and written English.
• Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task and prioritise work.
• Attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Should be able to work well in a team and communicate confidently with others.
• The ability to work to deadlines and within set budgets is essential.

SLR’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered part of the recruitment process. We actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply. SLR is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates, and values diversity and inclusion.

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