Lead Power Plant Operations Engineer

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package with benefits

Professional development opportunities

Retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Power Plant Operations Engineer to oversee day-to-day operations of a large-scale plant in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead a team of shift engineers and operators, troubleshoot complex issues, and implement continuous improvement initiatives.

The role requires a mechanical or electrical engineering degree, 10+ years in ops, 5+ in leadership, and strong knowledge of power generation technologies. Pr.Eng. registration is desirable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.
• 10+ years in power plant operations, with 5+ years in a supervisory/lead role.
• Strong knowledge of power generation technologies (thermal, gas turbine, hydro or renewable).
• Proven experience in managing plant operations, including performance monitoring, troubleshooting, and safety management.
• Solid understanding of thermodynamic cycles, fluid mechanics, and electrical systems in power generation.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in process control systems (DCS) and operational data analysis.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) registration is desirable.
• Experience in KwaZulu-Natal/ Richards Bay advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the power plant operations team, ensuring effective shift management and performance.
• Oversee safe, efficient, and reliable operation of all plant equipment and systems.
• Monitor plant performance metrics and implement optimization strategies to reduce costs.
• Develop and execute operational procedures, maintenance schedules, and emergency response plans.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex operational problems with root cause analysis.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Manage spare parts inventory and oversee procurement of operational supplies.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide technical training to staff.
• Coordinate with maintenance, engineering and management teams for seamless operations.
• Contribute to plant budgeting and long-term operational planning.

Skills

Power plant operations

Leadership

DCS / process control

Data analysis

Safety management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Tools

DCS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major operator in the Energy industry, is seeking a highly experienced Lead Power Plant Operations Engineer for their facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This critical role involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of a large-scale power generation plant, ensuring maximum efficiency, reliability, and safety. The Lead Operations Engineer will manage a team of shift engineers and operators, troubleshoot complex operational issues, and implement continuous improvement initiatives. A deep understanding of power generation technologies, operational best practices, and stringent safety protocols is essential. This is an opportunity to lead a vital component of South Africa's energy infrastructure in the industrial hub of Richards Bay .

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage the power plant operations team, ensuring effective shift management and performance. Oversee the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of all power plant equipment and systems. Monitor plant performance metrics and implement strategies to optimize efficiency and reduce costs. Develop and execute operational procedures, maintenance schedules, and emergency response plans. Troubleshoot and resolve complex operational problems, conducting root cause analysis. Ensure compliance with all environmental, health, and safety regulations. Manage spare parts inventory and oversee procurement of necessary operational supplies. Conduct regular performance reviews and provide technical training and development for operations staff. Liaise with maintenance, engineering, and management teams to coordinate activities and ensure seamless operations. Contribute to plant budgeting and long-term operational planning.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. A minimum of 10 years of experience in power plant operations, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or lead role. Extensive knowledge of power generation technologies (e.g., thermal, gas turbine, hydro, or renewable). Proven experience in managing plant operations, including performance monitoring, troubleshooting, and safety management. Strong understanding of thermodynamic cycles, fluid mechanics, and electrical systems relevant to power generation. Excellent leadership, team management, and decision-making skills. Proficiency in process control systems (DCS) and operational data analysis. Strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship. Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is highly desirable. Experience within the KwaZulu-Natal region and specifically the industrial environment of Richards Bay is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and performance-based bonuses. Opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and certifications, are provided. The role is based in Richards Bay , offering a stable and secure work environment within a crucial sector of the economy. This position provides a direct impact on the nation's energy supply and offers significant career advancement prospects within a major energy organization.