Hydroelectric Plant Operations Manager

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Hydroelectric Plant Operations Manager to oversee Welkom, Free State operations. The role blends hands-on plant leadership with strategic planning and remote administrative work, focused on safe, efficient power generation and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate has substantial hydroelectric operations experience, strong leadership, and a track record of managing budgets, teams, and complex projects in a dynamic energy environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a technical field (Electrical/Mechanical) with substantial experience in power plant operations.
• Master's degree or MBA is advantageous for strategic leadership and budgeting responsibilities.
• Proven track record in hydroelectric plant operations, maintenance planning, and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage daily hydroelectric plant operations for safety and efficiency.
• Develop and enforce operational policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
• Oversee routine maintenance, major overhauls, and capital projects for plant equipment.
• Manage the plant operating budget and ensure financial targets are met.
• Lead, motivate, and develop a diverse team of operators and technicians.
• Ensure compliance with environmental permits and safety standards.
• Monitor performance data, analyze trends, and implement continuous improvement strategies.
• Coordinate with grid operators, regulators, and stakeholders for reliable power delivery.
• Lead risk assessments and mitigation planning for operations and safety.
• Oversee emergency response planning and execution for the facility.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Operations management

Regulatory compliance

Team development

Strategic planning

Stakeholder coordination

Data analysis

Risk assessment

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree or MBA (advantage)

Tools

SCADA systems

Plant management software

Data analytics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the Energy sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Hydroelectric Plant Operations Manager to oversee their operations in Welkom, Free State . This senior role requires a strategic leader with a deep understanding of hydroelectric power generation, plant maintenance, and regulatory compliance. The Operations Manager will be responsible for ensuring the efficient, safe, and reliable operation of the plant, managing budgets, leading operational teams, and optimizing energy output. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, blending essential on-site operational leadership with opportunities for strategic planning and remote administrative tasks. Join us in contributing to South Africa's energy security through sustainable hydroelectric power in the heart of the Free State . This is a critical role for driving excellence in energy production.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of daily hydroelectric plant operations, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
• Develop, implement, and enforce operational policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
• Oversee the planning and execution of routine maintenance, major overhauls, and capital projects for plant equipment.
• Manage the plant's operating budget, controlling costs and ensuring financial targets are met.
• Lead, motivate, and develop a team of plant operators, technicians, and support staff.
• Ensure strict compliance with all environmental regulations, permits, and safety standards.
• Monitor plant performance data, analyze trends, and implement strategies for continuous improvement.
• Coordinate with grid operators, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless power delivery.
• Manage risk assessment and implement mitigation strategies for operational and safety hazards.
• Oversee emergency response planning and execution for the facility.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• A Master's degree or MBA is an advantage.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in power plant operations, with at least 5 years in a management or supervisory role within the hydroelectric sector.
• Demonstrated expertise in turbine, generator, and dam operations and maintenance.
• Strong knowledge of electrical systems, control systems, and water management for hydroelectric power.
• Proven experience in budget management, resource allocation, and operational efficiency improvement.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Solid understanding of safety regulations (e.g., OSHA equivalents) and environmental compliance in the Energy industry.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and manage complex operational challenges.
• Proficiency in relevant plant management software and analytical tools.
• Willingness to work on-site in Welkom with flexibility for remote strategic planning.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, a generous retirement fund, and performance-based bonuses.
• This role provides significant opportunities for professional development, including leadership training and exposure to cutting-edge hydroelectric technologies.
• Employees benefit from substantial annual leave and a supportive work environment.
• The hybrid nature of the role offers a balance between operational leadership and strategic planning.
• Join our team in Welkom and play a vital role in shaping the future of renewable Energy in South Africa.