Senior Environmental Scientist - Energy Impact Assessment

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement annuity

Professional growth & conference

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Environmental Scientist to spearhead Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for major energy projects in Limpopo. The role involves guiding clients through regulatory processes, leading baseline studies, impact prediction, mitigation planning, and stakeholder engagement in a hybrid work setting.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Science/Management with at least 7 years of EIA experience in South Africa, and demonstrates strong report

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Ecology, or related field.
• 7+ years of EIAs experience with energy sector focus in South Africa.
• Strong knowledge of SA environmental legislation, permitting processes.
• Excellent report writing, presentation, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead full lifecycle EIAs and EMPs for energy projects (renewables, transmission, generation).
• Conduct baseline studies across ecological, social, and heritage domains.
• Analyze impacts and develop mitigation and management measures.
• Prepare high-quality EIA reports and regulatory documents; engage with authorities, clients and communities.
• Ensure compliance with national/international environmental standards; mentor junior staff.

Skills

Project leadership

Regulatory knowledge

Report writing

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Master's degree in Environmental Science/Environmental Management

Tools

GIS software

Environmental modeling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a respected environmental consultancy operating across Limpopo , is seeking a highly qualified Senior Environmental Scientist to spearhead Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for major energy projects. This role is essential for guiding clients through the complex regulatory landscape, ensuring sustainable development practices are integrated into project planning and execution. You will lead multifaceted EIA processes, including baseline studies, impact prediction, mitigation strategy development, and stakeholder engagement. This position offers a compelling opportunity to influence the environmental performance of critical energy infrastructure development in South Africa . The role follows a hybrid working model, necessitating both office-based collaboration and site accessibility.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage the full lifecycle of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) for energy projects (renewables, transmission, generation). Conduct comprehensive baseline studies, including ecological, social, and heritage impact assessments. Analyze potential environmental and social impacts, developing robust mitigation and management measures. Prepare high-quality EIA reports, technical memos, and other regulatory documentation. Engage effectively with regulatory authorities, clients, project teams, and affected communities. Ensure projects comply with national environmental legislation (e.g., NEMA) and international best practices. Provide expert environmental advice and strategic guidance to project stakeholders. Mentor and supervise junior environmental scientists and consultants. Stay current with environmental legislation, policy changes, and emerging issues relevant to the energy sector. Contribute to business development and client relationship management.

Requirements

Master's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Ecology, or a related field. Minimum of 7 years of experience in conducting EIAs, with a strong focus on the energy sector in South Africa . Proven track record of successfully managing complex EIAs from inception to approval. In-depth knowledge of South African environmental legislation, policies, and permitting processes. Experience with various renewable energy technologies and their associated environmental considerations. Excellent report writing, presentation, and communication skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Demonstrated ability to lead teams and manage multiple projects concurrently. Proficiency in relevant GIS software and environmental modeling tools is an asset. Valid driver's license and willingness to undertake site visits.

Benefits

Our client provides a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, a retirement annuity, and excellent opportunities for professional growth, training, and conference attendance. The hybrid work arrangement offers flexibility while ensuring critical on-site coordination. This role offers the chance to work on impactful projects that shape the future of energy in the Polokwane region and beyond.