Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Welkom, Free State, seeks a Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator to monitor plant systems, control water flow and turbine operations, and perform routine maintenance. The role requires SCADA experience, a mechanical or electrical background, and a strong safety focus.

Work includes rotating shifts, nights and weekends, and staying proactive to ensure safe, reliable energy generation for South Africa's energy needs.

Qualifications

• Matric/Grade 12 or equivalent required.
• Technical qualification in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.
• 3–5 years of experience operating power generation equipment, preferably hydroelectric.
• Experience with SCADA and industrial control systems required.
• Strong safety mindset and adherence to procedures.
• Ability to work rotating shifts including nights, weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control hydroelectric plant operations using SCADA and control panels.
• Operate turbines, generators and related equipment per procedures.
• Perform routine inspections and preventative maintenance on plant systems.
• Respond to alarms, troubleshoot and take corrective actions.
• Maintain accurate logs of plant activities and measurements.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and operational protocols.
• Coordinate repairs with maintenance teams as needed.
• Manage water levels and flow in line with dam safety protocols.
• Participate in emergency drills and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

SCADA experience

Industrial control systems

Mechanical/Electrical aptitude

Safety compliance

Education

Grade 12 (Matric)

Technical qualification in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Tools

SCADA

Control panels

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major utility provider focused on maintaining critical infrastructure, is actively seeking a skilled Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator to join their operational team in **Welkom, Free State**. This role is essential for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of their hydroelectric facilities. You will be responsible for monitoring plant systems, controlling water flow and turbine operations, and performing routine maintenance to ensure optimal energy generation. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical or electrical operations, a keen eye for detail, and a commitment to safety excellence. This position requires working in a plant environment in **Welkom, Free State**, with rotating shifts, including nights and weekends, to ensure continuous operation. We are dedicated to providing reliable energy and seek individuals who are proactive, safety-conscious, and possess a strong work ethic to support **South Africa's** energy needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and control hydroelectric power plant operations using SCADA systems and control panels.
• Operate turbines, generators, and associated equipment according to established procedures.
• Perform routine inspections and preventative maintenance on plant machinery and systems.
• Respond to alarms and abnormalities, taking corrective actions as necessary.
• Maintain accurate operational logs and records of plant activities.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, environmental standards, and operational protocols.
• Assist in troubleshooting equipment malfunctions and coordinating repairs with maintenance teams.
• Manage water levels and flow rates in accordance with operational requirements and dam safety protocols.
• Participate in emergency response drills and procedures.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the operations department.

Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric) certificate or equivalent qualification.
• Relevant technical qualification or trade certificate in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in operating power generation equipment, preferably hydroelectric.
• Experience with SCADA systems and industrial control systems is essential.
• Strong understanding of mechanical and electrical principles related to power plant operations.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical manuals and schematics.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure.
• Strong commitment to safety and adherence to procedures.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays.
• Physical fitness and ability to perform tasks in a plant environment, including climbing and working at heights.
• Reside in or be willing to relocate to **Welkom** Free State**.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and shift allowances.
• Comprehensive medical and pension fund benefits.
• Paid overtime opportunities.
• Extensive on-the-job training and career development.
• Safe and stable working environment within a critical infrastructure sector.
• Contribution to the reliable energy supply of **South Africa**.