Environmental Scientist - Data Centre

Job description

Company Description AECOM is seeking Environmental Scientist - Data Centre to be based in South Africa's Enterprise Capabilities office in Centurion. This position will support a team locally based in South Africa and Global Teams. As a part of AECOM's culture, it offers a flexible hybrid work arrangement which accommodates both office and out-of-office work schedules. About Enterprise Capabilities Fundamental to our Think and Act Globally strategy and digital adoption, Enterprise Capabilities (EC) is AECOM’s primary vehicle for workshare. Operating across geographic boundaries and time-zones, EC partners with regional and Global Business Line project teams to provide technical expertise, accelerate delivery and keep AECOM competitive in the industry. With a team of over 3000 technical professionals located across nine countries and remote technical anchors, EC teams are trusted to deliver high-quality, specialist services that help to fill capability gaps, resourcing needs and technical constraints on projects of all scopes and sizes. Start here. Grow here. Job Description AECOM is seeking to appoint a qualified and experienced Environmental Scientist to support full-time on-site environmental compliance, coordination, and implementation related to the construction of a data centre project. The incumbent will play a key role in ensuring compliance with Environmental Authorisations (EA), Environmental Management Programmes (EMPr), Water Use Licence (WUL) conditions (where applicable), and relevant environmental legislation during construction and early operational phases. The role also includes coordination responsibilities and participation in public participation and stakeholder engagement processes where required. Technical Excellence Conduct environmental monitoring, inspections, and site audits to ensure compliance with EA, EMPr, WUL (if applicable), and project requirements. Develop and contribute to environmental reporting by gathering, correlating, and analysing environmental data using established tools and procedures. Support preparation of environmental deliverables by integrating monitoring results, specialist inputs, and technical knowledge. Monitor construction activities Identify non-conformances and propose corrective actions. Apply environmental legislation (NEMA, EIA Regulations, National Water Act) and identify regulatory triggers. Support audits, inspections, and regulatory engagement. Maintain compliance documentation and reporting quality. Coordinate environmental inputs with specialists and other disciplines. Client Relationship Management Participate in client and project meetings. Support engagement with contractors, SHE teams, independent ECO, and client representatives. Contribute to stakeholder engagement processes. Assist in presenting environmental findings and recommendations. Advantageous Experience on data centre or industrial projects. Knowledge of ISO 14001 systems. Understanding of stormwater and pollution control. GIS/QGIS experience. Core Competencies Attention to detail. Strong organisational skills. Ability to work independently and in teams. Good communication. Problem-solving ability. Professional integrity. Qualifications Minimum Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science or related field. 5 years’ relevant experience. Knowledge of environmental legislation. Experience with EMPr and compliance monitoring. SACNASP and EAPASA registration. Valid driver’s licence and strong report-writing skills. Additional Information At AECOM, you will have freedom to grow in a world of opportunity At AECOM, our Freedom to Grow philosophy supports flexibility and balance to help our people thrive. As part of this approach, we ask all hybrid employees to work from an AECOM office at least three days per week. At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment. About AECOM AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. What makes AECOM a great place to work You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.