Senior Environmental Scientist - Mining Compliance

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund benefits

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Environmental Scientist for mining operations near Randburg, Gauteng. The role focuses on ensuring robust environmental compliance, leading EIAs, EMPs, and monitoring programs, and liaising with regulators to protect environmental performance.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s in Environmental Science or related field, 7+ years in environmental management within mining, and registration with EAPASA.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Ecology, or related field.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• At least 7 years in environmental management, with mining experience.
• Knowledge of SA environmental legislation (NEMA, MPRDA) and permitting.
• Experience in EIAs, EMPs, and monitoring programs.
• Strong understanding of ecological principles, hydrogeology, and geochemistry.
• Data analysis and reporting proficiency.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement.
• Professional registration with EAPASA is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage Environmental Management Plans for mining projects.
• Conduct EIAs and update them as required by regulators.
• Monitor water, air, noise, biodiversity; analyze results.
• Ensure compliance with environmental laws, permits.
• Liaise with government agencies and stakeholders on environmental matters.
• Develop and deliver environmental training for site personnel.
• Investigate incidents and develop corrective actions.
• Oversee rehabilitation and closure planning from an environmental perspective.
• Manage consultants and contractors for studies and monitoring.
• Prepare regular environmental performance reports for management and regulators.
• Stay updated on changes in legislation and best practices.

Skills

Environmental management

EIAs

Environmental monitoring

Data analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Project management

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science/related field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the mining sector, is seeking a dedicated Senior Environmental Scientist to ensure robust environmental compliance at their operations near Randburg, Gauteng. This crucial role involves managing environmental impact assessments, implementing mitigation strategies, and ensuring adherence to all national and local environmental regulations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of environmental legislation, ecological principles, and best practices in the mining industry. You will be responsible for monitoring environmental performance, developing and executing environmental management plans, and liaising with regulatory bodies. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to sustainable mining practices and protect the environment while supporting business objectives. You will lead environmental initiatives and guide the company's commitment to environmental stewardship. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating environmental risks associated with mining activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) for mining projects.
• Conduct Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and update them as required by regulatory bodies.
• Monitor key environmental parameters, including water quality, air quality, noise levels, and biodiversity, and analyze results.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable environmental laws, regulations, and permits.
• Liaise with government environmental agencies, local authorities, and other stakeholders on environmental matters.
• Develop and deliver environmental training programs for site personnel.
• Investigate and report on environmental incidents, developing corrective action plans.
• Oversee rehabilitation and closure planning activities from an environmental perspective.
• Manage consultants and contractors engaged in environmental studies and monitoring.
• Prepare regular environmental performance reports for management and regulatory authorities.
• Stay updated on changes in environmental legislation and industry best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Ecology, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• A Master's degree is preferred.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in environmental management, with a significant portion within the mining industry.
• In-depth knowledge of South African environmental legislation (e.g., NEMA, MPRDA) and permitting processes.
• Proven experience in conducting EIAs, EMPs, and environmental monitoring programs.
• Strong understanding of ecological principles, hydrogeology, and geochemistry relevant to mining.
• Proficiency in environmental data analysis and reporting.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong project management and organizational abilities.
• Professional registration with EAPASA (Environmental Assessment Practitioners Association of South Africa) is essential.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund benefits, and opportunities for professional development and training.
• This role provides the chance to work on significant mining projects and contribute to environmental best practices.
• The company is committed to sustainability and fostering a safe and responsible working culture.
• Support for ongoing professional development is provided.