Remote Principal Environmental Scientist - Mine Closure and Rehabilitation

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Fully remote

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Environmental Scientist for a fully remote role guiding global mine closure and rehabilitation projects. You will lead strategic planning, oversee EIAs, remediation, and land-use planning while coordinating with multinational teams from a remote home base.

The ideal candidate has 12+ years in environmental management, strong regulatory knowledge, GIS and modeling experience, and a proven track record in leadership and remote collaboration.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Environmental Science or related field.
• 12+ years in environmental management with mine closure specialization.
• Expertise in EIA, remediation, and post-mining land use planning.
• Strong knowledge of global environmental legislation and permitting.
• Experience with environmental modeling and GIS applications.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and report-writing skills.
• Outstanding remote collaboration and leadership abilities.
• Professional certification (e.g., REA, PG) is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of strategic mine closure plans.
• Conduct EIAs and risk analyses.
• Oversee remediation and restoration efforts.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and permitting.
• Develop and manage monitoring programs during closure.
• Provide remote technical guidance to clients and teams.
• Prepare reports, proposals, and regulatory submissions.
• Manage budgets, timelines, and resources for closure projects.
• Mentor junior scientists and consultants.
• Stay current with new environmental technologies and practices.

Skills

Environmental management

EIA expertise

Regulatory compliance

GIS proficiency

Remote leadership

Project management

Report writing

Data analysis

Education

Master's or PhD in Environmental Science

Tools

GIS software

Environmental modeling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking environmental consultancy serving the global mining industry, is seeking an accomplished Principal Environmental Scientist for a fully remote position. This senior role will lead the strategic planning, development, and execution of comprehensive mine closure and rehabilitation projects for clients worldwide. You will be instrumental in ensuring responsible environmental stewardship, minimizing ecological impact, and facilitating the successful transition of mining sites back to sustainable land use. The ideal candidate possesses extensive expertise in environmental impact assessment, regulatory compliance, and remediation technologies, coupled with exceptional remote collaboration and project management skills. This is a unique opportunity to drive impactful environmental solutions on a global scale from your home base, working with a company that is at the forefront of sustainable mining practices. We foster a highly collaborative and supportive remote work environment, empowering our experts to excel.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of strategic mine closure and rehabilitation plans.
• Conduct comprehensive environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and risk analyses.
• Oversee remediation strategies for contaminated sites and ecological restoration efforts.
• Ensure compliance with national and international environmental regulations and permitting requirements.
• Develop and manage environmental monitoring programs throughout the closure process.
• Provide expert technical guidance and consultation to clients and project teams remotely.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, proposals, and regulatory submissions.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and resources effectively for closure projects.
• Mentor and guide junior environmental scientists and consultants.
• Stay abreast of emerging environmental technologies and best practices in mine rehabilitation.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or Ph.D. in Environmental Science, Ecology, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in environmental management, with a significant specialization in mine closure and rehabilitation.
• Proven expertise in EIA, remediation, and post-mining land use planning.
• Strong understanding of relevant environmental legislation and permitting processes globally.
• Experience with environmental modeling and GIS applications.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and report-writing skills.
• Outstanding remote communication, interpersonal, and leadership abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and lead multidisciplinary teams virtually.
• Professional certification (e.g., REA, PG) is highly desirable.
• Commitment to sustainable environmental practices and ethical conduct.

Benefits

This fully remote role offers a top-tier compensation package, competitive salary, and performance bonuses, tailored to attract leading global talent. Enjoy the ultimate flexibility of working from home, with no requirement for relocation, and contribute to significant international projects. Our client provides extensive opportunities for professional growth, including specialized training, virtual conferences, and access to cutting-edge research. You will join a dynamic, internationally diverse team dedicated to making a positive environmental impact in the mining sector. We champion a culture of innovation, autonomy, and work-life balance, ensuring our remote employees are supported and valued. This is your chance to lead in environmental stewardship within the mining industry on a global scale, all while enjoying the freedom of remote work.