Operations Manager - Power Generation Facility

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Performance bonuses

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Operations Manager to oversee a Vereeniging power generation facility. You will lead daily operations, drive efficiency, ensure safety and regulatory compliance, and manage a multi-disciplinary team across maintenance and engineering.

The role requires 10+ years in power plant operations with a proven leadership track record, strong financial acumen, and expertise in operational best practices for energy generation. On-site role with growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Electrical engineering or related technical field.
• 10+ years in power plant operations with supervisory experience.
• Strong leadership and safety culture capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily operations of the Vereeniging power generation facility.
• Develop and implement strategies to meet production targets and efficiency goals.
• Coordinate planned and unplanned maintenance with engineering and maintenance teams.
• Ensure SHE regulations and company policies are followed.
• Manage operational budget and cost controls.
• Mentor and develop the operations team to drive continuous improvement.
• Monitor performance data and implement corrective actions.
• Manage relationships with regulators, suppliers, and internal departments.
• Oversee emergency response planning and licensing compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Safety culture

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Plant operations software

People management

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Diploma in related field

Tools

Plant management software

SCADA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major operator in the power generation sector, is seeking a seasoned Operations Manager to oversee their facility in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This is a critical leadership role responsible for ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the power plant. You will manage all aspects of plant operations, including personnel, maintenance coordination, safety compliance, and performance optimization. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in power plant management, strong leadership skills, and a comprehensive understanding of operational best practices in the energy industry. This role requires on-site presence and a commitment to maintaining high operational standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the daily operations of the power generation facility in Vereeniging, ensuring optimal performance and availability.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to meet energy production targets and efficiency goals.
• Oversee the coordination of planned and unplanned maintenance activities with the engineering and maintenance teams.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations and company policies.
• Manage the operational budget, controlling costs while maintaining plant integrity and performance.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the operations team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Monitor plant performance data, identify deviations, and implement corrective actions to improve efficiency and reliability.
• Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, suppliers, and internal departments.
• Oversee emergency response planning and execution.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable licenses and permits for the facility in Gauteng.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• A relevant diploma with extensive experience will also be considered.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in power plant operations, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Proven experience managing diverse teams and fostering a strong safety culture.
• In-depth knowledge of power generation technologies (e.g., thermal, gas, hydro) and associated operational principles.
• Strong understanding of maintenance strategies, predictive and preventive maintenance programs.
• Excellent financial acumen and experience managing operational budgets.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in plant operations management software and systems.
• Knowledge of South African energy regulations and environmental standards.
• Must be willing to work on-site in Vereeniging and be available for occasional call-outs.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package commensurate with the demands of this senior role, including performance bonuses and comprehensive medical aid.
• A generous retirement fund contribution and paid time off are standard.
• The company provides opportunities for continuous professional development and leadership training.

Join a stable and reputable organization within the vital energy sector, making a significant contribution to the Gauteng region's power supply from our facility in Vereeniging.