Hydro Power Plant Operator

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 83,000 - 152,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift allowances

Overtime

Medical aid

Retirement plan

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a vigilant Hydro Power Plant Operator to join a hydroelectric facility near Nelspruit. You will monitor, control, and maintain complex systems to ensure safe, efficient electricity output in line with procedures and environmental standards.

Key duties include operating turbines via SCADA, performing routine checks, logging readings, addressing alarms, and coordinating with maintenance teams to preserve plant integrity.

Qualifications

• NTC/N3 or equivalent qualification in mechanical or electrical engineering.
• At least 3 years operating/maintaining power generation equipment.
• Experience with SCADA and plant control room operations.
• Strong commitment to safety and environmental compliance.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor hydroelectric units, turbines, and associated equipment via SCADA.
• Perform routine checks of plant machinery, water levels and environmental conditions.
• Respond promptly to alarms and deviations to maintain safety and efficiency.
• Conduct basic maintenance and lubrication of equipment as per procedures.
• Maintain accurate logs and reports on plant performance.
• Collaborate with maintenance teams to ensure plant integrity.

Skills

SCADA familiarity

Shift work

Safety-conscious

Education

NTC/N3 in mechanical or electrical engineering

Tools

SCADA systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading operator of essential energy infrastructure, is seeking a vigilant and technically proficient Hydro Power Plant Operator to join their facility near Nelspruit . In this operational role, you will be responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the complex systems of a hydroelectric power generation facility. Your primary focus will be on ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable output of electricity while adhering to stringent operational procedures and environmental standards. This position is critical for maintaining a consistent power supply from renewable resources in the Mpumalanga region.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor hydroelectric generating units, turbines, and associated auxiliary equipment via control systems (SCADA).
• Perform routine checks and inspections of plant machinery, water levels, and environmental conditions.
• Respond promptly to alarms and operational deviations, taking corrective actions to maintain plant safety and efficiency.
• Conduct basic maintenance and lubrication of equipment as per operating procedures.
• Maintain accurate operational logs, records of readings, and reports on plant performance.
• Collaborate with maintenance teams and supervisors to ensure the overall integrity of the power plant operations.

Requirements

• Relevant technical qualification (e.g., NTC, N3) in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent operational experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in operating or maintaining power generation equipment, preferably in a hydroelectric or thermal power plant environment.
• Familiarity with SCADA systems and plant control room operations.
• Understanding of electrical and mechanical principles related to turbine and generator operation.
• Strong emphasis on safety procedures and environmental compliance within an industrial setting.
• Ability to work shifts and respond effectively to operational demands.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage with shift allowances and potential for overtime.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement savings plan.
• On-the-job training and opportunities for professional development in power plant operations.
• Stable employment with a reputable organization in the energy sector.
• Work within a critical renewable energy facility contributing to the national power supply.