Power Plant Operations Leader — Optimize Performance & Safety

Placements24; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Training and leadership development

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Power Plant Operations Manager for a major energy facility in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will oversee daily plant operations, lead engineers and technicians, and drive high-performance culture focused on safety and efficiency.

The role requires a deep understanding of fossil and renewable generation, extensive management experience, and a track record of optimizing reliability, uptime and cost control in a demanding industrial environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Electrical/Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Master's degree or equivalent advanced qualification preferred.
• Minimum 10 years in power plant operations, with at least 5 years in a management/supervisory role.
• Experience with multiple power generation technologies (gas turbines, steam turbines, combined cycle, renewables).
• Strong grasp of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and electrical power systems.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, safety programs, and environmental compliance.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Experience with SCADA systems and plant control software.
• Knowledge of South African industrial regulations and standards.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of power plant operations, including generation, maintenance, and safety protocols.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to maximise plant efficiency, output, and reliability while minimising costs.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of engineers, operators, and maintenance personnel, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety, environmental, and regulatory standards and permit requirements.
• Oversee maintenance schedules and activities, ensuring equipment integrity and preventing unplanned outages.
• Monitor plant performance data, analyse trends, and implement corrective actions to optimise operations.
• Manage the operational budget, including forecasting, expenditure control, and resource allocation.
• Liaise with engineering, procurement, and external stakeholders on plant operations and upgrades.
• Develop and implement emergency response plans and ensure operational readiness.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Budget management

SCADA

Safety compliance

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

SCADA systems

Plant control software

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Power Plant Operations Manager for a major energy facility in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will oversee daily plant operations, lead engineers and technicians, and drive high-performance culture focused on safety and efficiency.

The role requires a deep understanding of fossil and renewable generation, extensive management experience, and a track record of optimizing reliability, uptime and cost control in a demanding industrial environment.