Planning and Assessment (ESIA)- Principal Environmental Consultant

SLR; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1 000 000 - 1 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy in Johannesburg is seeking a Principal Environmental Consultant to oversee large-scale ESIA projects. The role demands strong leadership in managing multidisciplinary teams, ensuring compliance with regulations, and developing client relationships. Candidates should have over 15 years of relevant experience and a Master’s in a related field. Proficiency in Microsoft Office is essential, along with excellent communication skills.

Qualifications

• 15+ years experience in ESIAs, especially in energy-related projects.
• Sound knowledge of South African environmental legislation.
• Ability to manage large, complex ESIA projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead implementation of large-scale ESIA projects.
• Ensure deliverables are robust, compliant, and client-aligned.
• Mentor junior staff and manage client relationships.

Skills

Report writing

Communication skills

Time management

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Education

Hons or Master’s in Environmental or Natural Sciences

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Overview

The role 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).

Responsibilities

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.

Qualifications and Requirements

• 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

• Sound report writing skills.
• 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.