Senior Ecologist (Environmental Impact Assessment)

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance-based bonus

Professional development

Field allowances

Equipment provided

Collaborative work environment

Diverse project exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Ecologist to lead Environmental Impact Assessments in the Eastern Cape, based in East London. You will oversee field surveys, data analysis, and reporting while coordinating with regulators, clients, and the ecological team.

The role requires a Master’s in Ecology or related field and 5+ years in ecological consulting with EIA experience. Relocation to East London is expected, with opportunities for professional development and field allowances.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Ecology, Environmental Science, Zoology, Botany, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in ecological consulting, with focus on EIA.
• Experience in conducting ecological field surveys and data analysis.
• In-depth knowledge of South African biodiversity, legislation (NEMA) and EIA processes.
• Proficiency in GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS) and statistical analysis packages.
• Experience in managing projects, budgets, and timelines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical reports.
• Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa and reside in or relocate to East London.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage planning and execution of ecological field surveys for EIAs and BAs.
• Assess flora, fauna, and ecosystems; identify habitats and species of concern.
• Analyze ecological data using GIS and statistics.
• Prepare high-quality EIA reports and biodiversity management plans.
• Liaise with clients, regulators, and stakeholders.
• Develop and recommend mitigation measures to minimize impacts.
• Ensure compliance with national/provincial environmental legislation.
• Mentor junior ecologists and contribute to team development.
• Stay updated on legislation, research, and best practices in EIA.
• Present findings clearly to diverse audiences.

Skills

GIS proficiency

Data analysis

Project management

Team leadership

Report writing

Excellent communication

Education

Master's degree in Ecology/Environmental Science

Tools

ArcGIS

QGIS

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading environmental consulting firm dedicated to sustainable development, is seeking a Senior Ecologist to lead Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) projects in the Eastern Cape , based in East London . This role is crucial for evaluating the potential environmental effects of development projects and proposing mitigation measures to minimize ecological impact. You will be responsible for conducting field surveys, analyzing ecological data, preparing comprehensive EIA reports, and liaising with regulatory bodies, clients, and stakeholders. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of South African biodiversity, strong ecological surveying skills, and a proven ability to manage complex EIA processes. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to environmentally responsible development in a region rich in biodiversity. Join us in East London and shape a more sustainable future.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the planning and execution of ecological field surveys for Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and Basic Assessments (BAs).
• Conduct detailed assessments of flora, fauna, and ecosystem functions, identifying sensitive habitats and species of concern.
• Analyze ecological data using appropriate statistical methods and GIS tools.
• Prepare high-quality EIA reports, specialist ecological reports, and biodiversity management plans in accordance with legislative requirements.
• Liaise with clients, project managers, regulatory authorities (e.g., DEA, provincial environmental departments), and other stakeholders.
• Develop and recommend appropriate mitigation measures to minimize negative ecological impacts of proposed developments.
• Ensure compliance with national and provincial environmental legislation and best practice guidelines.
• Mentor junior ecologists and contribute to the development of the ecological consulting team.
• Stay updated on current environmental legislation, ecological research, and best practices in EIA.
• Present findings and recommendations clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Ecology, Environmental Science, Zoology, Botany, or a related biological science field.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in ecological consulting, with a strong focus on Environmental Impact Assessments.
• Proven experience in conducting ecological field surveys and data analysis.
• In-depth knowledge of South African biodiversity, legislation (e.g., NEMA, biodiversity laws), and EIA processes.
• Proficiency in GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) and statistical analysis packages.
• Experience in managing projects, budgets, and timelines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear and concise technical reports.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a commitment to scientific rigor.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa and reside in or be willing to relocate to East London .

Benefits

• A competitive annual salary ranging from to R.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Performance-based annual bonus.
• Opportunities for professional development, including relevant training courses and conference attendance.
• Field allowances and necessary equipment provided for site assessments.
• A collaborative work environment focused on environmental stewardship in East London .
• Chance to work on diverse and impactful development projects.
• Contribution to sustainable development and conservation efforts.