Remote Principal Environmental Scientist

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Environmental Scientist for a fully remote role in the mining sector. You will lead EIAs, implement comprehensive environmental management plans, and ensure regulatory compliance across global operations.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in a related field with 10+ years in environmental management for mining, strong leadership, and the ability to guide multidisciplinary teams remotely. Health and retirement benefits are provided.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Ecology, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in environmental management, with a focus on mining and natural resources.
• Proven expertise in EIA, regulatory compliance, and permitting processes.
• In-depth knowledge of environmental legislation in relevant jurisdictions.
• Experience developing and implementing EMS (e.g., ISO 14001).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for technical reports.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and oversee environmental management strategies for mining projects.
• Lead EIAs and facilitate permitting with regulatory bodies.
• Design and manage environmental monitoring programs (air, water, biodiversity, noise).
• Develop and implement mitigation and rehabilitation plans.
• Ensure compliance with environmental legislation and company policies.
• Provide expert guidance to project teams and stakeholders.
• Conduct environmental audits and inspections to ensure standards.
• Stay abreast of emerging environmental issues and best practices in mining.
• Develop and deliver environmental training for staff.
• Manage environmental consultants and contractors as required.

Skills

EIA expertise

Regulatory compliance

Environmental management

Project leadership

Technical reporting

Remote team leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Environmental modeling software

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Environmental Science/Engineering/Ecology

Tools

ISO 14001

Environmental modeling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in the mining industry , is seeking an exceptional Principal Environmental Scientist to join their dedicated team. This is a fully remote opportunity, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere. The Principal Environmental Scientist will be responsible for developing and implementing strategic environmental management plans, ensuring compliance with international and local regulations, and promoting sustainable practices across our client's diverse mining operations. This role is critical in safeguarding the environment and maintaining our client's social license to operate, requiring a deep understanding of environmental impact assessment, mitigation, and monitoring within the context of large-scale resource development.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and oversee comprehensive environmental management strategies and systems for mining projects.
• Lead environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and facilitate the permitting process with regulatory bodies.
• Design and manage environmental monitoring programs, including air quality, water quality, biodiversity, and noise.
• Develop and implement environmental mitigation and rehabilitation plans.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable environmental legislation, regulations, and company policies.
• Provide expert advice and technical guidance to project teams, management, and stakeholders on environmental matters.
• Conduct environmental audits and inspections to ensure adherence to standards and identify areas for improvement.
• Stay abreast of emerging environmental issues, technologies, and best practices relevant to the mining industry .
• Develop and deliver environmental training programs to staff at various levels.
• Manage environmental consultants and contractors as required.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Ecology, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in environmental management, with a significant focus on the mining and natural resources sector .
• Demonstrated expertise in environmental impact assessment (EIA), regulatory compliance, and permitting processes.
• In-depth knowledge of environmental legislation in relevant jurisdictions.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing environmental management systems (e.g., ISO 14001).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear and concise technical reports and present complex information effectively.
• Proven ability to lead and manage projects remotely and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong understanding of stakeholder engagement and community relations.
• Proficiency in environmental modeling software is an advantage.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a robust retirement savings plan. Our client is committed to fostering a sustainable future and values the contributions of its environmental team. This role provides an exceptional opportunity for professional growth, work-life balance, and the ability to influence environmental performance on a global scale within the mining industry . You will be part of a forward-thinking organization dedicated to responsible resource development.