Operations Manager - Solar Farm

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site accommodation

Relocation assistance

Medical aid and retirement fund

Career growth opportunities

Annual performance incentives

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of a large-scale solar farm near Durban. You will ensure safety, optimize performance and lead a skilled technicians team.

The role requires a Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical or Mechanical) and at least five years in operations management, with strong familiarity with solar energy systems and SCADA. This full-time position offers competitive pay, medical aid, retirement fund contributions,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical or Mechanical) required.
• 5+ years of operations management experience in power/industrial settings.
• Proven experience with solar energy systems and related technologies.
• Strong knowledge of electrical systems, mechanical equipment, and SCADA.
• Leadership and team-management abilities; NEBOSH certification is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of a large-scale solar farm near Durban.
• Lead a team of technicians and maintenance staff; schedule work.
• Monitor performance, implement preventive maintenance plans.
• Ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental standards.
• Coordinate with suppliers for spares and procurement.
• Optimize energy output and system reliability.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical or Mechanical)

Tools

SCADA

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a results-oriented Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day functioning of a large-scale solar farm located near Durban. This critical role ensures the optimal performance, safety, and efficiency of the facility, managing a team of technicians and maintenance staff. You will be responsible for all aspects of plant operations, including performance monitoring, preventative maintenance, and regulatory compliance. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned operations professional to lead a key asset in the growing renewable energy sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate all operational activities for the solar power plant, ensuring maximum energy output.
• Develop and implement robust preventative maintenance schedules for all plant equipment.
• Oversee the performance monitoring of solar arrays, inverters, and associated infrastructure.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety regulations and environmental compliance standards.
• Lead, train, and manage a team of skilled technicians and operational staff.
• Manage spare parts inventory and coordinate with suppliers for timely procurement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical) or a related technical field.
• Proven experience (5+ years) in operations management, preferably in a power generation or industrial facility.
• Demonstrated experience with solar energy systems and related technologies is essential.
• Strong understanding of electrical systems, mechanical equipment, and SCADA systems.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and problem-solving abilities.
• Certification in safety procedures (e.g., NEBOSH) is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with annual performance incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• On-site accommodation or generous housing allowance provided.
• Relocation assistance for candidates relocating to the Durban area.
• Opportunities for career growth within a leading energy firm.