Operations Manager - Renewable Energy Plant

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Operations Manager for a renewable energy plant near Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will balance site-based management with remote planning, ensuring safety, reliability and profitability.

The role requires leadership of maintenance teams, budget control, and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate has a technical engineering degree, 6+ years in energy operations, and a proven track record managing complex facilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field
• 6+ years in operations and maintenance of power generation facilities, renewable energy preferred
• Experience leading operational teams and managing budgets
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills; familiar with HSE regs

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily plant operations to maximize output and efficiency
• Develop procedures to ensure safety, reliability, and compliance
• Coordinate maintenance and repairs with internal teams and contractors
• Monitor performance via SCADA and address deviations
• Manage budgets, control costs, and allocate resources
• Lead and develop the O&M team with a focus on safety
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and permit requirements
• Liaise with regulators, grid operators, and management
• Drive continuous improvement to reduce risks

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Hybrid work experience

SCADA

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical/Mechanical) or related technical field

Tools

SCADA systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a seasoned and proactive Operations Manager to oversee the efficient and safe operation of their renewable energy plant located near Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. This hybrid role requires a strong leader with a proven track record in managing complex energy facilities, ensuring optimal performance, and maintaining stringent safety standards. You will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the plant, including personnel, maintenance, and operational processes. The successful candidate will balance site-based responsibilities with remote administrative and strategic planning tasks, contributing to the long-term success and profitability of the facility. This is a vital position within our operations, based in the Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and optimize the daily operations of the renewable energy plant to maximize energy output and efficiency.
• Develop and implement operational procedures and best practices to ensure safety, reliability, and compliance.
• Oversee the maintenance and repair activities, coordinating with internal teams and external contractors.
• Monitor plant performance using SCADA and other monitoring systems, identifying and addressing any deviations.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and ensure efficient resource allocation.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the operations and maintenance team, fostering a culture of safety and high performance.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental regulations, safety standards, and permit requirements.
• Liaise with stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, grid operators, and management, on operational matters.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance plant performance and reduce operational risks.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or similar) or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in operations and maintenance of power generation facilities, preferably in renewable energy (solar, wind).
• Demonstrated experience in managing operational teams and budgets.
• Strong understanding of power plant operations, including electrical systems, mechanical equipment, and control systems.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations and best practices in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, managing both on-site and remote responsibilities.
• Experience with SCADA systems and other operational monitoring software.
• Project management experience is an advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonus incentives.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• A hybrid work model that offers flexibility.
• The chance to contribute to the growth of renewable energy in South Africa.
• Company-provided accommodation or housing allowance for on-site requirements.