Hydro Power Plant Operations Manager

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive incentives

Health & retirement benefits

Company vehicle

Leadership development

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth is seeking an experienced Hydro Power Plant Operations Manager to lead the operational excellence of our client’s hydro facilities near Port Elizabeth. This senior role ensures safe, efficient, and reliable electricity generation from hydro resources while guiding engineers and technicians.

You will develop strategies, manage budgets, mentor teams, and maintain compliance with safety and environmental standards, delivering optimized energy output and reduced costs

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering as a minimum.
• At least 8 years in power plant operations with hydro facilities.
• Experience leading operational teams and managing budgets.
• Strong knowledge of hydro turbine technology, water management, and electrical systems.
• Solid understanding of safety, environmental regulations, and quality management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day hydro plant operations for efficiency and availability.
• Develop and implement maintenance schedules and emergency plans.
• Mentor operations and maintenance teams, promoting safety and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Monitor performance, analyze data, and optimize energy output to reduce costs.
• Manage relationships with suppliers, contractors, and regulators.

Skills

Leadership

Decision making

Communication

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and results-driven Hydro Power Plant Operations Manager to lead the operational excellence of their facilities near Port Elizabeth . This senior leadership role is responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable generation of electricity from hydro power resources. You will manage a team of engineers and technicians, oversee maintenance activities, optimize plant performance, and ensure strict adherence to safety and environmental regulations. This position is vital for maintaining consistent energy supply and contributing to the region's renewable energy portfolio in the Eastern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the hydro power plant, ensuring maximum efficiency and availability.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, maintenance schedules, and emergency response plans.
• Manage and mentor the operations and maintenance teams, fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Monitor plant performance, analyze operational data, and implement measures to optimize energy output and reduce costs.
• Manage relationships with suppliers, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in power plant operations, with a strong focus on hydroelectric facilities.
• Proven experience in managing operational teams and budgets in a complex industrial environment.
• In-depth knowledge of hydro turbine technology, water management, and electrical generation systems.
• Strong understanding of safety protocols, environmental regulations, and quality management systems.
• Excellent leadership, decision-making, and communication skills.

Benefits

• Competitive executive salary with significant performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement fund, and life cover.
• Company vehicle and accommodation allowance provided.
• Opportunities for professional development and leadership training.
• A leadership role in a critical renewable energy infrastructure asset in Port Elizabeth .