Principal ESIA Consultant

About the role

SLR Consulting is expanding its International Environmental & Social team in Dubai and seeks a Principal ESIA Consultant to lead high‑impact assessments across the Middle East, Africa and global markets. The role combines technical expertise, project leadership and client engagement to deliver world‑class environmental and social advisory services.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary ESIA projects from inception to completion, acting as Project Director or Technical Lead.
• Ensure compliance with international lender standards such as IFC Performance Standards, Equator Principles, World Bank ESS and EBRD requirements.
• Coordinate specialist teams covering biodiversity, air quality, noise, climate change, water, marine, cultural heritage and engineering.
• Conduct environmental and social due diligence, screening studies, audits and feasibility studies.
• Provide strategic oversight, quality assurance and coaching to project teams.
• Engage with clients, regulators and stakeholders to secure project approvals and deliver sustainable outcomes.

Required profile

• Extensive experience managing ESIA projects for energy, infrastructure, water, industrial and transport sectors.
• Proven track record delivering projects to international development finance institution standards.
• Strong technical background in environmental and social impact assessment.
• Excellent project management and team‑leadership abilities.
• Experience in GCC markets is preferred but not mandatory.

Required skills