Operations Manager - Renewable Energy Projects

Placements24; Free State; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee solar and wind assets in the Upington region. You will lead site teams, manage budgets, ensure compliance, and drive maintenance and performance improvements across projects.

Bring a strong background in project management and the renewable energy sector. The role requires leadership, travel within the Northern Cape, and a hybrid work schedule, with emphasis on safety and efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical or Mechanical) or related field.
• Minimum 6 years in operations management, project management, or asset management, preferably in renewables.
• Experience leading complex projects or sites with energy infrastructure focus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operational management of renewable energy projects (solar and wind).
• Lead site teams, contractors and service providers for safe operations.
• Develop operational plans, maintenance schedules and budgets for assets.
• Monitor asset performance, identify deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental and regulatory standards.
• Manage transitions from construction to operations handover.
• Liaise with clients, grid operators and regulatory bodies.
• Apply best practices to maximize reliability and asset lifespan.
• Oversee procurement of materials and services for operations.
• Prepare regular performance reports and provide strategic insights.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Project management

Analytical skills

HSE compliance

Hybrid travel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading developer of renewable energy solutions, is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee project execution and ongoing operational management of their solar and wind energy facilities in the Upington, Northern Cape region and surrounding areas. This critical role will ensure the efficient, safe, and cost-effective operation of renewable energy assets, from construction handover through to long-term performance monitoring. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in project management, operations, and a solid understanding of the renewable energy sector. You will be responsible for leading site teams, managing budgets, ensuring compliance, and driving initiatives to maximize energy generation and asset lifespan. This is a key position for a motivated professional passionate about sustainable energy.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the operational management of renewable energy projects (solar and wind farms).
• Manage site teams, contractors, and service providers to ensure efficient and safe operations.
• Develop and implement operational plans, maintenance schedules, and budgets for assigned assets.
• Monitor asset performance, identify deviations, and implement corrective actions to optimize energy production.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Manage project transitions from construction to operations phase, ensuring smooth handover.
• Liaise with stakeholders, including clients, grid operators, and regulatory bodies.
• Implement best practices in operations and maintenance to maximize asset reliability and lifespan.
• Oversee the procurement of necessary materials and services for operational needs.
• Prepare regular performance reports and provide insights for strategic decision-making.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical), Project Management, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in operations management, project management, or asset management, preferably within the renewable energy sector.
• Proven experience in managing complex projects or operational sites, with a focus on energy infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of solar PV and/or wind turbine technology and operations.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and control operational costs.
• Proficiency in project management software and performance monitoring tools.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical capabilities.
• Willingness to travel within the Northern Cape region and work a hybrid schedule.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund, performance bonuses, and opportunities for professional development in the growing renewable energy sector. This role offers significant responsibility and the chance to contribute to the advancement of sustainable energy solutions in the Northern Cape . Join our client and power the future.