Operations Manager - Renewable Energy Plant

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

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Pension fund

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee renewable energy plants in Paarl, Western Cape. You will lead a multidisciplinary team, manage budgets, and drive strategies for safety, reliability, and energy output across solar and wind assets.

The role requires a strong engineering background, 7+ years in energy operations, and the ability to balance on-site oversight with remote planning in a hybrid work model. Western Cape experience is a plus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering or related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in operations management within the energy sector.
• Proven track record in managing plant operations, maintenance, and personnel.
• Strong understanding of power plant technologies, control systems, and grid integration.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in operational budgeting, cost control, and performance analysis.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations.
• Ability to balance on-site oversight with remote strategic planning in a hybrid work model.
• Experience in the Western Cape region is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of renewable energy plants (solar, wind).
• Develop and implement operational strategies and performance metrics.
• Oversee maintenance and troubleshooting of plant equipment.
• Ensure adherence to safety, environmental standards, and permits.
• Manage operational budgets and optimize resource allocation.
• Lead and develop a team of plant operators, technicians, and engineers.
• Monitor plant performance data and implement improvements.
• Coordinate with grid operators and regulatory bodies.
• Conduct regular site inspections and performance reviews.
• Respond to emergencies and outages effectively.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

HSE

Grid integration

Operations knowledge

Performance analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent developer and operator of renewable energy facilities, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Operations Manager to oversee the efficient functioning of their power generation assets in the Paarl, Western Cape region. This critical role involves ensuring the optimal performance, safety, and regulatory compliance of our renewable energy plants, primarily focusing on solar and wind power. You will lead a team of skilled technicians and engineers, manage operational budgets, and implement strategies to maximize energy output and plant longevity. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact in the burgeoning renewable energy sector in South Africa. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of power plant operations, and a commitment to sustainable energy practices within the Paarl vicinity.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operations of renewable energy plants (solar, wind), ensuring maximum efficiency, reliability, and uptime.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, procedures, and performance metrics to achieve plant production targets.
• Oversee the maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of plant equipment, coordinating with internal teams and external contractors.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety regulations, environmental standards, and operational permits.
• Manage operational budgets, controlling costs and optimizing resource allocation for maximum cost-effectiveness.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of plant operators, technicians, and engineers.
• Monitor plant performance data, identify trends, and implement improvements to enhance energy generation and efficiency.
• Liaise with grid operators, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and compliance.
• Conduct regular site inspections and performance reviews to maintain high operational standards.
• Respond to and manage plant emergencies and unplanned outages effectively.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in operations management within the energy sector, specifically with renewable energy power plants (solar, wind).
• Proven track record in managing plant operations, maintenance, and personnel.
• Strong understanding of power plant technologies, control systems, and grid integration.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in operational budgeting, cost control, and performance analysis.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations applicable to power plant operations.
• Ability to balance on-site operational oversight with remote strategic planning and reporting in a hybrid work model.
• Experience working in the Western Cape region is an advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and pension fund, and excellent opportunities for career advancement within the renewable energy field. This role provides a chance to contribute directly to South Africa's sustainable energy goals.