Senior Hydroelectric Plant Operations Leader | Hybrid

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Hydroelectric Plant Operations Manager to oversee Welkom, Free State operations. The role blends hands-on plant leadership with strategic planning and remote administrative work, focused on safe, efficient power generation and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate has substantial hydroelectric operations experience, strong leadership, and a track record of managing budgets, teams, and complex projects in a dynamic energy environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a technical field (Electrical/Mechanical) with substantial experience in power plant operations.
• Master's degree or MBA is advantageous for strategic leadership and budgeting responsibilities.
• Proven track record in hydroelectric plant operations, maintenance planning, and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage daily hydroelectric plant operations for safety and efficiency.
• Develop and enforce operational policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
• Oversee routine maintenance, major overhauls, and capital projects for plant equipment.
• Manage the plant operating budget and ensure financial targets are met.
• Lead, motivate, and develop a diverse team of operators and technicians.
• Ensure compliance with environmental permits and safety standards.
• Monitor performance data, analyze trends, and implement continuous improvement strategies.
• Coordinate with grid operators, regulators, and stakeholders for reliable power delivery.
• Lead risk assessments and mitigation planning for operations and safety.
• Oversee emergency response planning and execution for the facility.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Operations management

Regulatory compliance

Team development

Strategic planning

Stakeholder coordination

Data analysis

Risk assessment

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree or MBA (advantage)

Tools

SCADA systems

Plant management software

Data analytics tools

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Hydroelectric Plant Operations Manager to oversee Welkom, Free State operations. The role blends hands-on plant leadership with strategic planning and remote administrative work, focused on safe, efficient power generation and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate has substantial hydroelectric operations experience, strong leadership, and a track record of managing budgets, teams, and complex projects in a dynamic energy environment.