Senior Climate Specialist

Minerals Council South Africa; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 900 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental organization is seeking a Senior Climate Specialist to support sustainable mining practices by integrating climate science and policy. The role involves advising on climate risks and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation. Candidates should have at least 10 years of experience in climate change or sustainability, with a Master's degree preferred. This position is based in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in climate change, energy, or sustainability.
• Deep knowledge of climate policies and sustainability standards.
• Experience working with government departments, NGOs, or international organisations is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on climate change trends and impacts in mining operations.
• Develop climate-related projects aligned with environmental legislation.
• Advise stakeholders on climate risks and sustainability opportunities.

Skills

Climate science knowledge

Communication

Analytical skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Masters degree in engineering or environmental science

Tools

Climate modelling tools

Data analysis software

Job description

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The Senior Climate Specialist plays a critical role in supporting sustainable mining practices by integrating climate science, policy, and climate mitigation and adaptation management approaches within an investment and growth context.

This role involves assessing climate risks, advising on mitigation and adaptation strategies, and ensuring compliance with national and international climate-related legislation.

The Senior Climate Specialist works closely with internal teams, government bodies, mining industry, non-governmental organisations and communities to promote climate resilience and reduce climate vulnerabilities across mitigation and adaptation.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research and analysis on climate change trends, impacts, and mitigation / adaptation strategies specific to mining operations.
• Develop and implement climate-related projects and policies aligned with South Africa's environmental legislation and mining regulations.
• Advise stakeholders including mining companies, government agencies, and NGOs on climate risks, carbon management, and sustainability opportunities.
• Ensure understanding and where required compliance against, amongst others, key legislation such as:

Legislation and Policy Frameworks

• Paris Agreement
• Climate Change Act
• Offset Regulations
• Carbon Budget Regulations
• CBAM EU, US related Regulations
• Sectoral Emissions Targets
• Nationally Determined Contribution Policies
• Integrated Resources Plan
• Just Transition related policies and discussion documents
• Carbon Tax Act

• Provide thought leadership on global best practice such as technology availability and maturity, carbon trading, carbon offsetting, sustainability certifications, product carbon footprinting and lifecycle assessments.
• Where required support members with techno-economic evaluations on technologies such as carbon capture and storage, green hydrogen and biofuels.
• Assist and support in analysing industry wide climate scenarios and adaptation studies against risk based view for enabling mining sectors resilience in a changing climate.
• Support members just transition, mitigation and adaptation roadmaps.
• Analyse member greenhouse gas emissions in line with Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Reporting Regulations and provide insights for informing strategies for climate resilience and sustainable growth and decarbonisation.
• Prepare technical reports, policy briefs, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Engage with communities, members and regulators to build support for climate initiatives and promote awareness.
• Stay updated on emerging legislation, including the pending National Carbon Budget Regulations and related amendments, and the evolving international commitments.
• Represent the organisation at industry forums, workshops, and climate-related events.

Key Customers / Stakeholders

• Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) and its substructures
• Environmental Management and Sustainability Teams
• Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC)
• Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)
• Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE)
• Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS)
• South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI)
• South African Weather Service (SAWS)
• International Climate Bodies, e.g. EU Commission, IPCC, UNFCCC, VERRA, Gold Standard, CORSIA
• Local communities affected by mining operation

Education & Qualifications

• Masters degree in engineering, environmental science Geography, or related field (Postgraduate qualification preferred).

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of experience in climate change, energy, strategy, sustainability, preferably in the mining and energy sectors.
• Deep knowledge of national and international climate policies and sustainability standards.
• Knowledge of climate modelling tools, and data analysis software.
• Experience working with government departments (DFFE, DMRE), NGOs, or international organisations is advantageous.

Technical Knowledge

• Strong grasp of climate science, climate legislation, and sustainable mining practices.

Regulatory Expertise

• Familiarity with South African environmental laws and mining regulations.

Analytical Skills

• Ability to interpret climate data, model scenarios, and assess environmental impacts.

Project Management

• Experience in planning, executing, and evaluating climate-related projects.

Communication

• Skilled in translating technical information for diverse audiences.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Proven ability to collaborate across sectors and build consensus.

Problem-Solving

• Innovative and proactive in addressing climate challenges.

Adaptability

• Responsive to evolving climate science, policy landscapes, and operational needs.

How to Apply

Submit your application and CV toby26 November