Senior Environmental Scientist - Energy Project Compliance

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Growth opportunities

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Environmental Scientist to join a dynamic energy sector client in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will lead environmental assessments, develop mitigation plans, and ensure compliance with national and local environmental legislation throughout project lifecycles.

The successful candidate will have at least 6 years in environmental consulting or management within energy, strong knowledge of NEMA and permitting processes, and excellent report writing and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science or related field; Master's preferred.
• 6+ years in environmental consulting or management in the energy sector.
• Proven experience with EIAs and EMPs for energy projects (wind, solar, transmission).
• Knowledge of South African environmental legislation (NEMA) and permitting processes.
• Strong report writing, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to Port Elizabeth area.

Responsibilities

• Lead EIAs for energy projects.
• Develop and implement EMPs and monitoring programs.
• Ensure compliance with environmental legislation and permit conditions.
• Assess environmental risks and mitigation measures for energy infrastructure.
• Conduct site assessments and biodiversity surveys.
• Prepare reports and regulatory submissions for authorities.
• Engage with government, stakeholders and communities.

Skills

EIAs

EMP development

Regulatory knowledge

GIS

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree required

Master's degree preferred

Tools

GIS software

Modeling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic organization within the **energy** sector, is seeking a dedicated Senior Environmental Scientist to join their team in **Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA**. This role is crucial for ensuring that all **energy** projects undertaken by the company meet stringent environmental regulations and sustainability goals. You will be responsible for conducting environmental impact assessments, developing mitigation strategies, and overseeing compliance monitoring throughout the project lifecycle. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of environmental legislation, ecological principles, and best practices in environmental management within the **energy** industry. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to sustainable **energy** development in the **Eastern Cape**, balancing industrial progress with ecological preservation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for new **energy** projects.
• Develop and implement Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) and monitoring programs.
• Ensure compliance with national and local environmental legislation, regulations, and permit conditions related to **energy** development.
• Assess potential environmental risks and develop appropriate mitigation measures for **energy** infrastructure projects.
• Conduct site assessments, biodiversity surveys, and impact analyses.
• Prepare detailed environmental reports, technical submissions, and compliance documentation for regulatory bodies.
• Liaise with government agencies, stakeholders, and community groups on environmental matters.
• Provide expert advice and training to project teams on environmental best practices.
• Monitor environmental performance during construction and operational phases of **energy** facilities.
• Stay abreast of evolving environmental policies and technologies relevant to the **energy** sector.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Environmental Management, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in environmental consulting or management, with a focus on the **energy** sector.
• Proven experience conducting EIAs and developing EMPs for **energy** projects (e.g., wind, solar, transmission).
• In-depth knowledge of **South African** environmental legislation (e.g., NEMA) and permitting processes.
• Strong understanding of ecological principles, biodiversity, and pollution control.
• Excellent report writing, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proficiency in environmental modeling software and GIS is advantageous.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites in and around **Port Elizabeth**.
• Professional registration with a relevant body (e.g., EAPASA) is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Hybrid work model offering a balance between office and remote work.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Opportunities for professional growth and specialized training in environmental **energy** fields.
• Be part of impactful projects contributing to sustainable **energy** in **South Africa**.
• Supportive team environment and collaborative company culture.
• Generous annual leave allowance.