Senior Hydropower Plant Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance incentives

Health insurance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Hydropower Plant Engineer to oversee operations in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The role focuses on technical management, optimization, and maintenance of hydropower facilities with hybrid work on-site and at the plants.

The candidate should have a Master’s in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (Power/Hydro) and 8+ years of experience in hydropower operations, asset management, and project engineering. Strong leadership and SCADA knowledge are essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering with hydro/power specialization.
• Minimum 8 years in operation, maintenance, and engineering of hydropower plants.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulic turbines (Francis/Kaplan/Pelton), generators and ancillary systems.
• Experience in asset management, condition monitoring, and failure analysis.
• Proficiency with engineering software and SCADA in power plants.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical oversight and operational management of hydropower plants.
• Develop and implement long-term asset management strategies for plant components.
• Oversee preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance for turbines, generators, transformers, and control systems.
• Conduct performance analysis and troubleshooting to optimize energy generation.
• Manage projects related to upgrades, rehabilitation, and modernization.
• Ensure safety, environmental compliance, and permits.

Skills

Asset management

SCADA systems

Hydropower hydraulics

Project management

Leadership

Troubleshooting

Education

Master's in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (Power/Hydro)

Tools

Engineering software

SCADA tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the renewable energy sector with a focus on sustainable hydro power, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Hydropower Plant Engineer for their operations in the Stellenbosch, Western Cape region. This critical role will oversee the technical management, optimization, and maintenance of hydropower facilities. You will be responsible for ensuring the efficient and safe operation of turbines, generators, control systems, and associated civil structures. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of hydropower technology, fluid dynamics, mechanical and electrical systems, and a strong background in asset management and project engineering. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to South Africa's clean energy goals and advance your career in a specialized field. The hybrid work model allows for strategic planning and analysis at the office, complemented by essential on-site inspections and coordination at the power generation facilities in the Stellenbosch area.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical oversight and operational management of hydropower plants.
• Develop and implement long-term asset management strategies for plant components.
• Oversee maintenance programs, including preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance for turbines, generators, transformers, and control systems.
• Conduct performance analysis and troubleshooting of plant equipment to optimize energy generation and efficiency.
• Manage engineering projects related to plant upgrades, rehabilitation, and modernization.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental standards, and operational permits.
• Review and approve technical designs, specifications, and repair procedures.
• Collaborate with operations teams, external contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Develop and manage budgets for maintenance, repair, and capital improvement projects.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical expertise to the team.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field with a specialization in Power Generation or Hydropower.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in the operation, maintenance, and engineering of hydropower plants.
• Deep understanding of hydraulic turbines (Francis, Kaplan, Pelton), generators, and associated auxiliary systems.
• Proven experience in asset management, condition monitoring, and failure analysis.
• Proficiency in project management and engineering software.
• Strong knowledge of electrical systems, control systems, and SCADA in a power plant context.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to interpret complex technical drawings and specifications.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) designation is highly preferred.
• Willingness to travel to various project sites within the Western Cape as needed.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary
• performance incentives
• comprehensive health insurance
• retirement fund contributions
• significant opportunities for professional growth and advanced training

This role provides the chance to work on critical infrastructure contributing to a sustainable energy future. The position is based in the picturesque region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , with a hybrid work arrangement fostering efficiency and flexibility. Our client values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. Join us and play a leading role in optimizing South Africa's renewable energy potential.