About the Company:
SLR is a global leader in environmental and sustainability advisory, with over 100 offices across 13 countries. We partner with clients to deliver innovative, science-based solutions that advance sustainable development.
As part of our strategic growth across the Middle East, we are strengthening our Dubai presence to support the rapid expansion of onshore renewable energy developments across the UAE and wider MENA region, including utility-scale solar PV, onshore wind, battery energy storage systems (BESS), green hydrogen, grid infrastructure, and associated transmission networks.
Joining SLR means becoming part of a collaborative One Team culture where expertise is shared across disciplines and borders, and where your work directly contributes to accelerating the region’s energy transition.
Job Purpose:
We are seeking a senior-level Associate Environmental Consultant to lead Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs) for large-scale onshore renewable energy projects from our Dubai office.
This role is suited to a highly experienced ESIA professional with strong knowledge of UAE regulatory frameworks and international lender standards (IFC Performance Standards, EBRD Performance Requirements, Equator Principles, World Bank ESS), particularly in the context of renewable energy and grid-connected infrastructure.
Registration with DECCA (Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority) is advantageous. However, we welcome experienced international candidates willing to relocate to Dubai, with attractive relocation support provided.
You will play a pivotal role in delivering high-profile renewable energy, infrastructure, industrial, and strategic development projects, ensuring technical excellence, regulatory compliance, and lender alignment.
The role requires a proactive, solutions-driven individual with demonstrated experience in managing large-scale environmental and social projects, engaging effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead and manage full ESIA processes in line with UAE, KSA and other regulatory requirements and international best practice
Act as primary technical lead and client interface on multidisciplinary projects
Interface directly with UAE regulatory authorities (including Dubai-based regulators), lenders, investors, and project partners
Align projects with international standards (IFC PS, World Bank ESS, EBRD PRs, Equator Principles)
Oversee baseline studies, impact assessment, alternatives analysis, and cumulative impact assessment
Lead stakeholder engagement and public consultation processes
Provide strategic environmental and social risk advice during project planning and permitting
Oversee preparation, review, and submission of high-quality ESIA reports and supporting documentation
Coordinate environmental, social, and specialist technical inputs across disciplines
Ensure quality assurance, risk management, and on-time project delivery
Support business development, including preparation of competitive proposals
Mentor junior consultants and strengthen SLR’s technical capacity in the UAE
What We Are Looking For:
8+ years of experience in environmental consulting with significant ESIA leadership experience
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or related discipline
Strong knowledge of UAE environmental legislation and permitting processes
DECCA registration (preferred but not mandatory)
Strong working knowledge of international lender standards (IFC, World Bank, EBRD, etc.)
Experience across renewable energy, infrastructure, industrial, ports, logistics, or major development projects
Proven experience managing multidisciplinary teams and complex schedules
Strong regulatory interface and client engagement skills
Experience leading proposal preparation and contributing to business growth
Fluent in English (Arabic advantageous)
Willingness to travel across the Middle East and Africa
Should have a valid driver's license
Why Join SLR?
Lead regionally significant, high-impact projects
Work within a global network of sustainability experts
Thrive in a collaborative, flexible One Team culture
Attractive relocation support for international candidates
Play a defining role in expanding SLR’s Middle East presence
Technical / Behavioural Requirements:
Excellent report writing and technical review skills
Strong project management capability (budgets, scheduling, delivery)
Advanced stakeholder engagement and public participation expertise
Strong organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
High attention to detail and commercial awareness
Proficiency in stakeholder engagement techniques and public participation frameworks
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.
