Environmental Assessment Practitioner

**Key Responsibilities**:

- **Lead Environmental Assessments**: Direct and manage the environmental assessment (EA) process for wind and solar projects, including the preparation of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and Environmental Management Plans (EMPs), ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and industry best practices.
- **Baseline Environmental Studies**: Oversee comprehensive baseline studies on flora, fauna, water resources, air quality, and cultural heritage to assess project impacts and inform mitigation strategies.
- **Impact Analysis & Mitigation**: Evaluate the environmental, social, and economic impacts of renewable energy projects, developing innovative strategies to mitigate negative effects on ecosystems, biodiversity, and local communities.
- **Permitting & Regulatory Compliance**: Provide expert guidance on environmental permitting and regulatory requirements, managing approval processes with relevant governmental and regulatory agencies to ensure smooth project progression.
- **Cross-Functional Collaboration**: Work closely with multidisciplinary project teams (engineering, planning, construction) to integrate environmental considerations into all stages of project development—from design through to operation.
- **Stakeholder Engagement**: Lead engagement efforts with key stakeholders, including local communities, environmental organizations, government bodies, and regulatory authorities, ensuring open, transparent communication and effective consultation.
- **Compliance Oversight**: Review and ensure compliance with local and international environmental laws and regulations, such as IFC Performance Standards, ISO 14001, and other relevant EIA guidelines.
- **Environmental Monitoring**: Manage and supervise environmental monitoring programs during construction and operational phases, ensuring adherence to Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) and regulatory requirements.
- **Team Leadership & Mentoring**: Provide leadership and mentorship to junior staff, fostering professional growth and ensuring the team’s contributions align with the overall goals of the projects.
- **Industry Expertise**: Stay up-to-date with the latest trends, regulations, and technologies in the renewable energy sector, particularly wind and solar, to continuously improve practices and anticipate emerging environmental concerns.

**Minimum Requirements**:

- **Educational Background**: A Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Renewable Energy, or a related field.
- **Professional Experience**: At least 7-10 years of experience in environmental assessments, with a minimum of 5 years specifically in renewable energy (wind and solar) projects.
- **Professional Registration**: EAPASA (Environmental Assessment Practitioners Association of South Africa) registration as a professional EAP is required.
- **Regulatory Knowledge**: Extensive knowledge of environmental regulations, permitting processes, and best practices specific to wind and solar energy projects, including wildlife impact assessments, siting regulations, noise and shadow flicker studies.
- **EIA & EMP Expertise**: Demonstrated experience in preparing and managing comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), Environmental Management Plans (EMPs), and other environmental documentation tailored to renewable energy projects.
- **Cumulative Impact Assessment**: Advanced understanding of cumulative environmental impact assessments, particularly regarding biodiversity, water resources, noise, and land use.

Application Deadline: 2024/11/30