Senior Environmental Compliance Officer

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working model

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Impactful energy projects

Team-oriented culture

Generous annual leave

Performance-based incentives

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Environmental Compliance Officer to lead the site’s environmental programs. You will develop and manage an EMS, conduct audits, ensure compliance with South African environmental law and permits, and advise project teams on sustainability best practices within the energy sector.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science or Management, 7+ years’ experience in compliance, and ISO 14001 familiarity with EIAs/EMPs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science/Management.
• 7+ years in environmental compliance.
• Knowledge of SA environmental legislation (NEMA, MPRDA).
• Experience with EIAs and EMPs.
• Familiarity with ISO 14001.
• Strong analytical, auditing, and communication skills.
• Hybrid work capability.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage environmental policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with environmental legislation, permits, and licenses.
• Conduct audits and site inspections to address non-compliance.
• Prepare and submit reports to regulatory agencies.
• Manage EIAs and facilitate public participation processes.
• Develop waste management and pollution control strategies.
• Provide environmental training and awareness to staff.
• Advise project teams on environmental considerations during planning and execution.
• Investigate environmental incidents and recommend corrective actions.
• Stay current with evolving environmental regulations and best practices in the energy sector.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Auditing skills

Communication skills

Data management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science/Management

Tools

ISO 14001

EIA process

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant entity within the energy infrastructure sector, is seeking a diligent and experienced Senior Environmental Compliance Officer to join their operations team in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This role is paramount in ensuring that all company activities, particularly those related to energy generation and distribution, strictly adhere to national and international environmental laws, regulations, and standards. You will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring environmental management systems, conducting audits, and providing expert guidance on environmental best practices. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of environmental legislation relevant to the energy industry, including impact assessments, waste management, and pollution control. This position involves a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a blend of office-based responsibilities and remote flexibility. You will work closely with project managers, engineers, and external stakeholders to promote environmental stewardship and minimise the ecological footprint of our client's operations. We are looking for a proactive individual with strong analytical skills and a commitment to sustainable development within the energy sector. Your role will be crucial in safeguarding the environment while supporting the company's operational goals in Vereeniging and surrounding areas.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage environmental policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable environmental legislation, permits, and licenses.
• Conduct regular environmental audits and site inspections to identify and address non-compliance issues.
• Prepare and submit environmental reports to regulatory agencies.
• Manage environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and facilitate public participation processes.
• Develop and implement waste management and pollution control strategies.
• Provide environmental training and awareness programs to staff.
• Advise project teams on environmental considerations during the planning and execution phases.
• Investigate environmental incidents and recommend corrective actions.
• Stay current with evolving environmental regulations and best practices in the energy industry.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in environmental compliance, preferably within the energy or industrial sector.
• In-depth knowledge of South African environmental legislation (e.g., NEMA, MPRDA if applicable).
• Proven experience in conducting Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and developing Environmental Management Plans (EMPs).
• Familiarity with ISO 14001 environmental management systems.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and auditing skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment and collaborate with diverse teams.
• Proficiency in environmental reporting and data management.
• A strong commitment to environmental protection and sustainability.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary up to ZAR .
• Hybrid working model offering flexibility.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Professional development opportunities and support for certifications.
• Work on impactful projects within the energy sector in Vereeniging .
• Positive and collaborative work culture.
• Generous annual leave.
• Performance-based incentives.