Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Harare
- Category: Environmental Consulting
- Closing Date: 2026-08-11
Key Responsibilities
- Capacity Building for Trainers The consultant will:
- Participate in specialized training on the application and implementation of planetGOLD Criteria.
- Develop knowledge and skills required to support ASGM stakeholders.
- Inception and Stakeholder Mapping The consultant will:
- Review relevant project documents, including planetGOLD Criteria training materials.
- Review Zimbabwean mining, environmental, and financial sector regulations.
- Develop an inception report, stakeholder mapping, and detailed implementation methodology.
- Stakeholder Training on Responsible Sourcing The consultant will design and deliver training sessions targeting:
- ASGM miners and mining associations.
- Gold buyers and aggregators.
- Fidelity Printers and Refiners.
- Financial institutions.
- Government agencies.
- Civil society organizations.
- The consultancy will ensure that at least 75 ASGM beneficiaries receive awareness training.
- Capacity Building for Selected ASGM Entities The consultant will support selected mining entities to:
- Conduct baseline assessments against planetGOLD Criteria.
- Identify compliance gaps.
- Develop improvement plans.
- Establish management systems and procedures.
- Strengthen documentation and record-keeping.
- Improve environmental and occupational health and safety practices.
- Enhance governance and organizational management.
- Strengthen financial transparency and accountability.
- Technical Support for Compliance The consultant will provide ongoing support through:
- Implementation of planetGOLD Criteria.
- Development of corrective action plans.
- Establishment of internal monitoring systems.
- Documentation of compliance evidence.
- Preparation for external verification processes.
- Monitoring, Reporting and Knowledge Products The consultant will:
- Develop monitoring frameworks to track compliance progress.
- Document lessons learned, challenges, opportunities, and recommendations.
- Support scaling up of responsible sourcing initiatives.
- Reporting Requirements The consultant will report to the planetGOLD Zimbabwe Project Manager. Monthly progress reports will include:
- Activities completed.
- Stakeholders engaged.
- Number of beneficiaries reached.
- Challenges encountered.
- Corrective actions proposed.
- Progress towards compliance targets.
Requirements
- At least 10 years’ experience in the mining sector.
- Demonstrated expertise in ASGM formalization and responsible sourcing.
- A degree in mining, environmental management, natural resource governance, sustainability, business administration, law, or a related field.
- Knowledge of OECD Due Diligence Guidance, LBMA Responsible Gold Guidance, and related responsible mineral sourcing frameworks.
- Experience delivering stakeholder engagement and training programmes.
- Strong understanding of Zimbabwe’s mining sector and institutional environment.
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and experience are typically sought for a PlanetGOLD criteria capacity building and training consultancy role in Zimbabwe?
Candidates usually require a degree in environmental science, mining engineering, geology, or a related social science field, with a focus on sustainable development. Relevant experience in artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM), environmental management systems, or delivering training programs is highly valued. Certifications in environmental impact assessment or project management can also be beneficial.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a consultant in PlanetGOLD criteria capacity building and training in Zimbabwe?
Daily tasks involve developing and delivering training materials on PlanetGOLD criteria to ASGM communities and stakeholders, often requiring extensive travel to field sites. Consultants also conduct assessments, facilitate workshops, and prepare detailed technical reports on progress and impact. Stakeholder engagement and coordination with local authorities are crucial components of the role.
What is the typical work culture and what are key expectations for environmental consultants working on projects like PlanetGOLD in Zimbabwe?
Consultants are expected to be highly adaptable, culturally sensitive, and possess strong interpersonal skills to build rapport with diverse rural communities and government bodies. Professionalism, adherence to strict project timelines, and a commitment to sustainable development principles are paramount. Frequent travel to remote areas and working autonomously are common aspects of the work environment.
What are realistic career progression paths for someone in a PlanetGOLD criteria capacity building and training consultancy role in Zimbabwe?
Successful consultants can advance to senior consultancy positions, project management roles within environmental or development organizations, or become independent experts specializing in ASGM or ESG. Opportunities also exist in policy development, research, or transitioning to international development agencies focusing on sustainable mining practices. Continuous professional development and networking are key for growth.
What kind of benefits package, such as leave or medical aid, can a consultant typically expect for this type of project-based role in Zimbabwe?
As a consultancy role, benefits are often integrated into a negotiated daily rate or project fee, rather than a separate formal package like for permanent employees. Consultants are typically responsible for their own medical aid, pension, and leave arrangements, which should be factored into their proposed remuneration. The specific terms can vary significantly based on the employer or contracting entity and project duration.
What do employers in Zimbabwe typically look for in applications for environmental consultancy roles like PlanetGOLD, and what is the best way to apply?
Employers seek demonstrated experience in environmental management, ASGM contexts, capacity building, and strong report writing and communication skills. A well-structured CV highlighting relevant project experience, coupled with a tailored cover letter explaining your specific interest and fit for the PlanetGOLD criteria, is essential. Networking within the environmental and mining sectors in Zimbabwe can also open doors to opportunities.