Plant Operations Manager

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Generous leave allowances

Training programs

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa’s North West seeks an experienced Plant Operations Manager for a chemical manufacturing facility in Klerksdorp. You will lead production, maintenance, quality control and safety to ensure efficient operations and top product quality.

The role requires strong leadership and a proven track record with Lean/Six Sigma, budgeting, and collaboration with engineering, supply chain and R&D to optimize processes. A Bachelor’s degree in a technical field is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering or Operations Management.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• 10+ years of experience in plant operations management, preferably in chemical manufacturing.
• Proven track record leading large teams and managing facilities.
• Strong knowledge of safety, lean, Six Sigma and process improvement.
• Experience with ERP and process control technologies.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily plant operations including production, maintenance, quality control, and safety.
• Develop strategies to meet production targets, quality standards, and cost objectives.
• Lead and mentor supervisors, operators, and staff to high performance.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Manage budgets, capex, and operating costs.
• Drive continuous improvement using lean and Six Sigma.
• Oversee maintenance schedules and equipment uptime.
• Implement rigorous quality control procedures.
• Collaborate with supply chain, engineering, and R&D to optimize processes.
• Monitor KPIs and report plant performance to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Operations Management

Master's degree

Tools

ERP systems

Process control software

Plant management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer in the chemical processing industry, is seeking an experienced and results-driven Plant Operations Manager for their facility in Klerksdorp, North West . This critical role is responsible for the overall management of plant operations, ensuring efficient production, adherence to stringent safety standards, and optimal resource utilization. The Plant Operations Manager will lead a diverse team, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and maintain the highest levels of operational performance and product quality. This position demands strong leadership, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of manufacturing processes within the Klerksdorp industrial landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day plant operations, including production, maintenance, quality control, and safety.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to meet production targets, quality standards, and cost objectives.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of supervisors, operators, and support staff, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Ensure strict compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Manage plant budgets, capital expenditures, and operational costs effectively.
• Drive process improvement initiatives using lean manufacturing principles and other methodologies to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
• Oversee maintenance schedules and ensure equipment reliability and uptime.
• Implement and maintain rigorous quality control procedures to ensure product consistency and customer satisfaction.
• Collaborate with supply chain, engineering, and R&D departments to optimize production processes and introduce new products.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and generate regular reports on plant performance for senior management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in plant operations management, with a significant portion in the chemical manufacturing sector.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale manufacturing facilities and diverse operational teams.
• Strong understanding of chemical processes, safety protocols (e.g., HAZOP), and environmental regulations.
• Demonstrated success in implementing continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in plant management software, ERP systems, and process control technologies.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing operational budgets.
• Ability to work effectively in a demanding, plant-based environment.
• Commitment to upholding the highest safety and quality standards.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, including performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and generous leave allowances. The company invests in employee development through training programs and career advancement opportunities. This role is based at our client's state-of-the-art facility in Klerksdorp, North West , providing a stable and challenging work environment. Join a leading organization that values innovation, safety, and the professional growth of its employees.