Senior Environmental Consultant - Renewable Energy Impact Assessment

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary & bonuses

Medical aid & retirement fund

Growth opportunities

Renewable energy projects

Collaborative team environment

Sustainable development in WesternCape

Flexible working arrangements

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, seeks an experienced Senior Environmental Consultant to lead ESIA projects for renewable energy developments across South Africa. You will manage baseline studies, mitigation plans, and regulatory compliance.

You will mentor junior staff, engage stakeholders, and contribute to business development to support sustainable energy growth in the Western Cape.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Environmental Science or related field.
• 7+ years in environmental consulting, focus on renewable energy projects.
• Experience managing ESIAs in South Africa and obtaining authorisations.
• Strong knowledge of SA environmental legislation, policies and EIA processes.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and facilitation.
• Excellent report writing, analysis and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage ESIAs for renewable energy projects from initiation to completion.
• Conduct baseline studies and risk analyses; oversee specialist assessments.
• Develop Environmental Management Plans and mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with SA legislation (NEMA) and best practices.
• Engage with authorities, clients, communities, and stakeholders.
• Prepare environmental reports, submissions and presentations; mentor juniors.
• Stay updated on policy changes and trends in the energy sector.
• Contribute to business development and proposal writing.

Skills

ESIA leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Report writing

Project management

GIS proficiency

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Environmental Science

Tools

GIS software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading environmental consultancy dedicated to supporting the growth of sustainable energy solutions across South Africa. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Environmental Consultant to join our team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. In this role, you will lead and manage Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs) for a diverse portfolio of renewable energy projects, including solar, wind, and battery storage facilities. You will be responsible for ensuring regulatory compliance, engaging with stakeholders, and developing robust mitigation measures to minimize environmental impact. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of South African environmental legislation, a proven ability to manage complex projects, and a passion for conservation and sustainable development. This position offers an excellent opportunity to contribute significantly to the energy sector's transition towards greener practices within the beautiful Western Cape region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs) for renewable energy projects from initiation to completion.
• Conduct baseline studies, specialist assessments (e.g., biodiversity, heritage, noise), and risk analyses.
• Develop comprehensive Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) and mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with national environmental legislation (e.g., NEMA) and international best practices.
• Engage effectively with regulatory authorities, clients, affected communities, and other stakeholders.
• Prepare high-quality environmental reports, submissions, and presentations.
• Provide expert advice on environmental matters related to renewable energy development.
• Mentor and guide junior environmental consultants and specialists.
• Stay updated on environmental policy changes and emerging trends in the energy sector.
• Contribute to business development initiatives and proposal writing.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Ecology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in environmental consulting, with a strong focus on renewable energy projects (solar, wind, CSP, BESS).
• Proven track record of successfully managing ESIAs in South Africa, including obtaining environmental authorisations.
• In-depth knowledge of South African environmental legislation, policies, and EIA processes.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and facilitation.
• Excellent report writing, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong project management capabilities and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in relevant GIS software is an advantage.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Opportunities for professional growth, further training, and career progression.
• Work on high-profile and impactful renewable energy projects.
• Collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Contribution to sustainable development in the Western Cape.
• Potential for flexible working arrangements.