Operations Manager - Power Generation Facility

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Annual bonuses

Comprehensive medical aid

Pension fund

Training opportunities

Career advancement

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24, a prominent operator of power generation facilities, is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day management of a key plant in Soweto, Gauteng. This senior role is responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable generation of electricity, meeting all regulatory requirements and performance targets.

The Operations Manager will oversee all aspects of plant operations, including maintenance, safety, environmental compliance, and staff management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering or related field is required.
• Master's degree or professional certifications are desirable.
• Minimum 10 years in power plant operations with 5+ years in a management role.
• Strong leadership, budgeting, and regulatory compliance knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all operational activities of the power generation facility for optimal performance.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, procedures, and metrics.
• Manage and mentor plant operators, maintenance technicians, and staff.
• Ensure safety, health, and environmental regulations are followed.
• Plan and manage the plant's operational budget and resource allocation.
• Oversee maintenance planning, including preventive and corrective programs.
• Coordinate with regulators, grid operators, and external stakeholders.
• Drive continuous improvement in efficiency, reliability, and safety.
• Maintain accurate records and generate performance reports for senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Safety management

Budget management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree or professional certifications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent operator of power generation facilities, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day management of a key plant in **Soweto, Gauteng**. This senior role is responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable generation of electricity, meeting all regulatory requirements and performance targets. The Operations Manager will oversee all aspects of plant operations, including maintenance, safety, environmental compliance, and staff management. The **Soweto** location is critical to the regional energy supply, and this position carries significant responsibility. Our client is committed to operational excellence, sustainability, and fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement. We are looking for a proven leader with a strong technical background in power generation and extensive experience managing complex operational environments. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a vital facility within the **Energy** sector in **South Africa**. The **Gauteng** province's energy needs require robust and dependable generation capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all operational activities of the power generation facility, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, procedures, and performance metrics.
• Manage and mentor a team of plant operators, maintenance technicians, and support staff.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety, health, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Develop and manage the plant's operational budget, controlling costs and optimizing resource allocation.
• Oversee the planning and execution of plant maintenance, including preventative and corrective maintenance programs.
• Respond effectively to operational challenges and emergencies, ensuring minimal disruption to power supply.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies, grid operators, and other external stakeholders.
• Drive initiatives for continuous improvement in operational efficiency, reliability, and safety.
• Maintain accurate operational records and generate performance reports for senior management.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• A Master's degree or relevant professional certifications are highly desirable.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in power plant operations, with at least 5 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Proven experience with various types of power generation technologies (e.g., thermal, renewable, hybrid).
• Strong understanding of power plant systems, including turbines, generators, boilers, and control systems.
• In-depth knowledge of safety management systems, environmental regulations, and operational best practices in the **Energy** industry.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing operational budgets.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and resolve complex operational issues.
• Professional registration with ECSA (Engineering Council of South Africa) is preferred.
• Willingness to reside within reasonable proximity to **Soweto** and participate in on-call rotations.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly attractive salary package, substantial annual bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, a generous pension fund, and potential for performance-related incentives.
• We are committed to employee development, providing extensive training opportunities, support for further qualifications, and clear pathways for career advancement.
• The **Soweto** facility is a critical asset, and you will be instrumental in its successful operation.
• Employees enjoy a supportive work environment and the satisfaction of contributing to **South Africa**'s energy security.
• We promote a healthy work-life balance and offer generous annual leave.