Lead Power Plant Operations Manager

Placements24; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Training and leadership development

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Power Plant Operations Manager for a major energy facility in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will oversee daily plant operations, lead engineers and technicians, and drive high-performance culture focused on safety and efficiency.

The role requires a deep understanding of fossil and renewable generation, extensive management experience, and a track record of optimizing reliability, uptime and cost control in a demanding industrial environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Electrical/Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Master's degree or equivalent advanced qualification preferred.
• Minimum 10 years in power plant operations, with at least 5 years in a management/supervisory role.
• Experience with multiple power generation technologies (gas turbines, steam turbines, combined cycle, renewables).
• Strong grasp of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and electrical power systems.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, safety programs, and environmental compliance.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Experience with SCADA systems and plant control software.
• Knowledge of South African industrial regulations and standards.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of power plant operations, including generation, maintenance, and safety protocols.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to maximise plant efficiency, output, and reliability while minimising costs.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of engineers, operators, and maintenance personnel, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety, environmental, and regulatory standards and permit requirements.
• Oversee maintenance schedules and activities, ensuring equipment integrity and preventing unplanned outages.
• Monitor plant performance data, analyse trends, and implement corrective actions to optimise operations.
• Manage the operational budget, including forecasting, expenditure control, and resource allocation.
• Liaise with engineering, procurement, and external stakeholders on plant operations and upgrades.
• Develop and implement emergency response plans and ensure operational readiness.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Budget management

SCADA

Safety compliance

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

SCADA systems

Plant control software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and results-driven Lead Power Plant Operations Manager to oversee the daily operations of a significant energy generation facility located in Tembisa, Gauteng . This critical role demands exceptional leadership skills, a deep understanding of power generation technologies (including fossil fuels and renewables), and a commitment to operational excellence, safety, and environmental compliance. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring optimal plant performance, minimizing downtime, and controlling operational costs. This is a hands-on leadership position requiring a proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement within a demanding industrial setting. We are looking for a strategic thinker who can align plant operations with the broader company objectives and contribute to the reliable supply of energy. The ideal candidate will possess a strong track record in managing complex industrial operations and fostering a culture of safety and efficiency. This role is essential for maintaining the integrity and output of our client's energy infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of power plant operations, including generation, maintenance, and safety protocols.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to maximize plant efficiency, output, and reliability while minimizing costs.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of engineers, operators, and maintenance personnel, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety, environmental, and regulatory standards and permit requirements.
• Oversee the maintenance schedules and activities, ensuring equipment integrity and preventing unplanned outages.
• Monitor plant performance data, analyze trends, and implement corrective actions to optimize operations.
• Manage the operational budget, including forecasting, expenditure control, and resource allocation.
• Liaise with engineering, procurement, and external stakeholders on matters related to plant operations and upgrades.
• Develop and implement emergency response plans and ensure operational readiness.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or equivalent advanced qualification is preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in power plant operations, with at least 5 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Demonstrated experience with various power generation technologies (e.g., gas turbines, steam turbines, combined cycle, renewable integration).
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and electrical power systems.
• Proven ability to manage operational budgets, safety programs, and environmental compliance.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Experience with SCADA systems and plant control software.
• Knowledge of South African industrial regulations and standards.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and make critical decisions in high-stakes situations.

Benefits

• Highly competitive remuneration package and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life cover, and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for advanced technical training and leadership development programs.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for exceptional candidates.
• A challenging and rewarding role within a critical infrastructure sector in Tembisa, Gauteng .