Lead Power Plant Operations Engineer

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Career advancement in Richards Bay

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Power Plant Operations Engineer for their Richards Bay facility in KwaZulu-Natal. You will oversee day-to-day operations of a large-scale power generation plant, manage a team of shift engineers, and drive safety, reliability, and efficiency improvements.

The role requires a minimum of 10 years in power plant operations with at least 5 years in a supervisory capacity, and a strong background in thermodynamic cycles, electrical systems, and DCS.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering required.
• Minimum 10 years in power plant operations with 5+ years in leadership.
• Experience with power generation technologies (thermal, gas turbine, hydro, renewables).
• Strong leadership and safety management skills.
• Proficient in process control systems (DCS) and data analysis.

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 environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Manage spare parts inventory and oversee procurement of necessary operational supplies.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide technical training for operations staff.
• Liaise with maintenance, engineering, and management teams to coordinate activities.
• Contribute to plant budgeting and long-term operational planning.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Decision making

DCS proficiency

Data analysis

Safety management

Root cause analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Tools

DCS control systems

CMMS/maintenance software

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.