Operations Manager - Power Generation

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary

Medical & retirement benefits

Housing provided

Relocation assistance

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee daily operations of a near-Nelspruit power generation facility. You will lead engineers, technicians, and operators to optimize performance, implement maintenance strategies, and ensure regulatory compliance.

This hands-on leadership role demands a commitment to operational excellence in the energy sector. You will drive strategies to maximize efficiency, safety, and reliability while managing budgets and developing a

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in power plant operations, with at least 3 years in a management role.
• Proven experience managing thermal, renewable, or hybrid power generation facilities.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of power plant operations, including generation, maintenance, and technical support.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to maximize efficiency, reliability, and safety.
• Oversee preventative and corrective maintenance programs to minimize downtime and ensure asset longevity.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and identify opportunities for process improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Operational reporting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of a key power generation facility located near Nelspruit . This critical role ensures the safe, efficient, and reliable production of electricity, managing a team of engineers, technicians, and plant operators. You will be responsible for optimizing plant performance, implementing robust maintenance strategies, and ensuring compliance with all environmental and safety regulations. This is a hands‑on leadership position for an individual committed to operational excellence in the energy sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of power plant operations, including generation, maintenance, and technical support.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to maximize efficiency, reliability, and safety.
• Oversee preventative and corrective maintenance programs to minimize downtime and ensure asset longevity.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and identify opportunities for process improvements.
• Lead, motivate, and develop the operations team, fostering a culture of high performance and accountability.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in power plant operations, with at least 3 years in a management role.
• Proven experience managing thermal, renewable, or hybrid power generation facilities.
• Strong understanding of power generation technologies, maintenance practices, and operational safety.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience with operational performance monitoring and reporting systems.

Benefits

• Competitive executive salary and annual bonus opportunity.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and retirement benefits package.
• Company housing or housing allowance provided.
• Relocation assistance available for candidates moving to the Mpumalanga region.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement within a leading energy company.