Operations Manager - Renewable Energy Plant

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Operations Manager to oversee renewable energy plants in the Paarl region of the Western Cape. You will lead a team of operators, technicians and engineers to ensure safety, reliability and regulatory compliance across solar and wind assets.

The role emphasizes strategic planning and on-site oversight with remote reporting, strong budgeting skills, and hands-on problem solving to maximize energy output and plant longevity in a growing South African renewables

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering or related technical discipline.
• 7+ years of operations management experience in energy, renewables preferred.
• Proven track record of managing plant operations, maintenance and personnel.
• Strong leadership, communication and budgeting skills.
• Knowledge of HSE regulations for power plants.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of renewable energy plants (solar, wind).
• Develop and implement operational strategies and performance metrics.
• Oversee maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting; coordinate with teams and contractors.
• Ensure safety regulations, environmental standards and permits.
• Manage operational budgets and resource allocation for cost-effectiveness.
• Lead and develop a team of plant operators, technicians, and engineers.
• Monitor performance data, identify trends, and implement improvements.
• Liaise with grid operators, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders for compliance.
• Conduct site inspections and performance reviews to maintain high standards.
• Respond to emergencies and outages effectively.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Budgeting

HSE compliance

Stakeholder liaison

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

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. Join our client and lead the operations of critical clean energy infrastructure.