Power Plant Operations Supervisor

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift allowances

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Training programs

Career development

Support for professional certificates

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Power Plant Operations Supervisor in Upington, Northern Cape to oversee daily plant activities and lead a team of operators and technicians. You will ensure safe, reliable generation and compliance with environmental standards while managing procedures, schedules and emergency responses.

The role requires a strong leadership background, high technical acumen in power generation, and a commitment to operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in power plant operations, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Experience with thermal power plants or renewable energy facilities.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, mechanical and electrical systems and control systems.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of safety procedures and emergency protocols.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making and troubleshooting abilities.
• Strong communication, interpersonal and reporting skills.
• Ability to work shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays.
• Proficiency in relevant plant operating systems and software.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and direct the activities of power plant operators and technicians in operation and maintenance.
• Ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant operation in accordance with procedures and regulations.
• Monitor plant performance, troubleshoot issues, and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and implement operational schedules and procedures, including startup/shutdown and emergencies.
• Manage plant logs, records, and reports with accuracy.
• Oversee compliance with safety regulations, environmental permits, and policies.
• Lead and participate in plant safety programs and drills.
• Coordinate with maintenance, engineering and admin teams for smooth operations.
• Train and mentor operational staff and assess performance.
• Maintain effective communication with management, control room and external stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Problem solving

Troubleshooting

Safety procedures

Education

National Diploma in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major independent power producer, is seeking an experienced and diligent Power Plant Operations Supervisor to oversee the daily operations of their facility in Upington, Northern Cape . This critical role ensures the safe, reliable, and efficient generation of electricity in compliance with all regulatory and environmental standards. You will lead a team of operators and technicians, manage operational procedures, and respond effectively to plant conditions and emergencies. This position requires strong leadership, technical expertise in power generation, and a commitment to operational excellence. If you have a proven track record in power plant operations and supervisory experience, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and direct the activities of power plant operators and technicians engaged in the operation and maintenance of generation equipment.
• Ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the power plant in accordance with established procedures and environmental regulations.
• Monitor plant performance, troubleshoot operational issues, and implement corrective actions to maintain optimal efficiency.
• Develop and implement operational schedules and procedures, including startup, shutdown, and emergency response plans.
• Manage plant logs, records, and reports, ensuring accuracy and completeness of operational data.
• Oversee compliance with all safety regulations, environmental permits, and company policies.
• Lead and participate in plant safety programs and emergency drills.
• Coordinate with maintenance, engineering, and administrative departments to ensure smooth plant operations.
• Train and mentor operational staff, assessing their performance and identifying development needs.
• Maintain effective communication with plant management, control room operators, and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in power plant operations, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Experience with thermal power plants (e.g., coal, gas, diesel) or renewable energy generation facilities (e.g., solar thermal, wind farms).
• Strong understanding of power plant thermodynamics, mechanical and electrical systems, and control systems.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of power plant safety procedures, lockout/tagout, and emergency response protocols.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and troubleshooting abilities.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and reporting skills.
• Ability to work shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required by plant operations.
• Proficiency in relevant plant operating systems and software.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, including shift allowances where applicable, and an attractive performance-based bonus.
• Comprehensive medical aid and a substantial retirement fund are provided.
• Employees benefit from extensive training programs, career development opportunities, and support for professional certifications.
• This role offers the chance to lead operations at a key energy generation facility, contributing directly to the energy security of the region.
• Join a stable and reputable organization that prioritizes safety, reliability, and employee growth.