Environmental & Social Manager – Yanbu

About the role

The Environmental and Social (E&S) Manager will ensure that ACWA projects in Saudi Arabia meet all relevant Saudi environmental, labor, occupational health and safety, and social regulations, as well as international lender standards. This critical position supports sustainable project delivery aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and manages compliance across multiple authorities and financing institutions.

Key responsibilities

• Maintain compliance with Saudi environmental laws and international lender standards (IFC Performance Standards, EBRD, Equator Principles).
• Implement, maintain and continuously improve the project Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS).
• Manage environmental permits, approvals, renewals and regulatory submissions with agencies such as NCEC and MEWA.
• Monitor environmental impacts including air, water, waste, noise and biodiversity.
• Oversee contractor E&S performance for EPC and O&M phases, conduct site inspections, audits and walk‑overs.
• Stop non‑compliant or unsafe activities and ensure corrective actions are taken.
• Lead stakeholder engagement with local communities, authorities, contractors and project stakeholders.
• Operate the grievance mechanism for communities and workers.
• Prepare clear, timely E&S reports for lenders, Saudi regulators and project leadership.
• Advise project leadership on E&S risks, deliver training and raise awareness among staff and contractors.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Sustainability, Social Sciences or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in environmental and social management.
• 4+ years of site‑based experience on energy, infrastructure or construction projects.
• Strong knowledge of Saudi environmental, labor, occupational health and safety, permitting and social compliance requirements.
• Proven experience working with international lenders and undergoing audits.
• Fluent in English; Arabic is a plus.

Required skills

• IFC Performance Standards, EBRD requirements and Equator Principles.
• Implementation and management of Environmental & Social Management Systems (ESMS).
• Regulatory compliance and permitting processes in Saudi Arabia.
• Contractor (EPC/O&M) management and site compliance.
• Stakeholder engagement and grievance handling.
• Strong reporting, documentation and risk‑management capabilities.