Plant Manager (Water Treatment)

Headhunters; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Headhunters in the Western Cape seeks an experienced Production and Maintenance Manager to oversee plant operations, lead teams, and ensure safe, efficient performance. The role focuses on reliability, asset health, and meeting contractual KPIs while maintaining rigorous safety standards.

You will drive continuous improvement, manage CMMS-based maintenance, and report on plant health and performance to stakeholders. This is a site-based, demanding leadership position.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years' experience in advanced water treatment.
• Experience in RO, SWRO, UF, and media filtration advantageous.
• Previous experience managing and leading staff is essential.
• Understanding of plant health and effective management of water treatment assets.
• Strong planning and organisational abilities.
• Excellent attention to detail and process troubleshooting skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage Production and Maintenance teams within the area of responsibility.
• Manage team utilisation, performance, productivity, and output.
• Take responsibility for plant performance and compliance with quality and quantity KPIs.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and MHSA/OSHA requirements.
• Utilise and maintain an effective CMMS system for maintenance management.
• Maintain administration and control procedures to meet objectives.
• Drive continuous improvement and optimisation of plant processes.
• Monitor plant processes and maintain detailed records and reports.
• Attend client meetings and report on operational performance.

Skills

Water treatment

Plant operations

CMMS

Team leadership

Health & safety

Communication

Education

B.Eng / BTech in Chemical Engineering

Civil or Mechanical Eng. qualifications (experience-based)

Tools

CMMS

Job description

Requirements:

• B.Eng or BTech in Chemical Engineering preferred.
• Civil or Mechanical Engineering qualifications will be considered based on relevant experience.
• Minimum 3-5 years' experience in advanced water treatment.
• Experience in RO, SWRO, UF, and media filtration will be advantageous.
• Previous experience managing and leading staff is essential.
• Understanding of plant health and effective management of water treatment assets.
• Proven record of satisfactory prior performance.
• Strong understanding of production and maintenance processes.
• Computer literacy, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and email.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong planning and organisational abilities.
• Excellent attention to detail and process troubleshooting skills.
• Strong client management skills.
• Ethical, responsible, and professional approach.
• Innovative mindset with a strong sense of accountability.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet operational targets.
• Willingness to perform plant operational standby duties.
• Knowledge and understanding of applicable occupational health and safety requirements will be advantageous.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage Production and Maintenance teams within the area of responsibility.
• Manage team utilisation, performance, productivity, and output.
• Take responsibility for plant performance and compliance with contractual quality and quantity KPIs.
• Ensure compliance with company and client safety standards.
• Take accountability for safety performance in accordance with applicable MHSA/OSHA legal appointments.
• Manage maintenance activities performed by artisans on site.
• Utilise and maintain an effective CMMS system for maintenance management.
• Maintain effective administration and control procedures to meet operational and performance objectives.
• Manage financial control, HR/IR, procurement, and stock management functions.
• Drive continuous improvement and optimisation of plant processes.
• Implement and maintain financial controls with profit and loss accountability for the plant.
• Monitor plant processes and maintain detailed records and reports.
• Report on ongoing projects and operational performance.
• Ensure effective resource management to enable employees to meet their required performance objectives.
• Ensure client satisfaction through the delivery of professional, reliable, and high-quality service.
• Conduct client feedback meetings and provide reporting as required.
• Compile comprehensive plant reports.
• Attend client meetings as required.
• Monitor overall plant health and proactively intervene to optimise plant availability.
• Identify potential operational issues and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure optimal plant performance, availability, and production output.
• Report effectively to the Operations Manager regarding plant performance and operational matters.
• Ensure production meets required specifications and quality standards.
• Ensure operational activities comply with contractual requirements and agreed KPIs.
• Perform plant operational standby duties when required.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, efficiency, and continuous improvement.