Job Description

About the company

SLR is expanding its global footprint. As such, we are continuously looking for talented people to join our team and add value to Our Business. We are particularly interested in adding team members to our Planning and Assessment team in South Africa.

We are recognised as one of the global leaders in environmental and advisory solutions, helping our clients achieve their sustainability goals. SLR has over 100 offices in 13 different countries worldwide, and we actively encourage collaboration and learning among the many disciplines and services we offer globally.

At SLR, you can expect a flexible and supportive 'One Team' culture that is at the heart of our business and ensures that we offer a rewarding workplace. You will be able to work alongside industry leaders and specialists on interesting projects and be part of a team that makes a difference.

Job Purpose

The Principal Environmental Consultant will play a strategic and leadership role in delivering complex environmental and social projects across Africa, with a particular emphasis on Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) processes within South Africa and/or Africa. The role requires expertise in managing multidisciplinary teams and delivering high-quality outputs that meet either national regulatory frameworks and/or international best practice standards, including those of international financial institutions and development lenders (e.g., IFC Performance Standards, Equator Principles).

Key responsibilities include leading and overseeing the end-to-end implementation of large-scale ESIA and related environmental and social projects. This encompasses project scoping, impact assessment, report preparation, coordination of specialist studies, public and stakeholder engagement, regulatory authority consultations, and overall project management and administration.

This role includes the day-to-day management and coordination of a team of over 10 environmental professionals, serving as a line manager responsible for performance oversight, capacity development, and career progression of team members. Mentorship and leadership are central to the role, with a focus on developing junior and mid-level staff through on-the-job training and creating an environment that fosters collaboration, accountability, and professional growth.

Minimum Requirements & Responsibilities:

Over 15 years' experience in ESIAs in South Africa or Africa.

B.Sc. (Hons) or Master's in environmental or Natural Sciences or similar qualification.

Must have experience in managing a number of team members.

Must have a sound knowledge of environmental legislation processes within South Africa, with an opportunity to manage ESIAs in the rest of Africa.

Must have sound project management knowledge (methodology, proposal/ report compilation, budget control, timely project completion, write-off presentation skills, etc.).

Must develop and sustain client relationships, leading to repeat business.

Must be able to lead the preparation and submission of winning proposals.

Must be able to manage large, complex ESIA projects.

Must be able to travel within South Africa and possibly other African countries.

Must be able to complete and review reports.

Proficient in Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint and Excel.

Should have a valid driver's license.

Skills/ Attributes:

Sound report writing skills.

Excellent command / highly proficient in spoken and written English.

Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task and prioritise work.

Attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment.

Excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills.

Should be able to work well in a team and communicate confidently with others.

The ability to work to deadlines and within set budgets is essential.

SLR's approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered part of the recruitment process. We actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply. SLR is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates, and values diversity and inclusion.