Senior Operations Manager - Solar Farm

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybride; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 800 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Comprehensive benefits package

Hybrid work arrangement

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Operations Manager to oversee solar farm operations in Polokwane, Limpopo. This hybrid role combines on-site leadership with office-based planning to ensure safety, reliability, and financial viability across our solar assets in South Africa.

The ideal candidate will have 8+ years in power-generation operations, 4+ years in solar PV, strong leadership and regulatory knowledge, and a proven track record in contractor management and budget oversight.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in operations management in power generation, with at least 4 years in solar PV.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field.
• Knowledge of South African energy regulations and grid codes.

Responsabilités

• Oversee day-to-day O&M of large-scale solar farms.
• Develop strategies to maximize production and minimize downtime.
• Oversee performance of O&M contractors and internal teams.
• Ensure adherence to HSEQ standards.
• Monitor plant performance and analyze data for improvements.
• Manage spare parts inventory and procurement.
• Develop and manage operating budgets.
• Coordinate with grid operators, regulators, and communities.
• Drive continuous improvement for efficiency and reliability.
• Ensure compliance with PPAs and licensing requirements.

Connaissances

Leadership

Team management

Communication

HSEQ knowledge

Regulatory knowledge

SCADA awareness

Formation

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Outils

SCADA systems

Asset management software

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a leading Independent Power Producer (IPP) with a significant portfolio of solar assets, is seeking an experienced Senior Operations Manager to oversee their solar farm operations in the Polokwane, Limpopo region. This hybrid role requires a strategic leader who can ensure the optimal performance, safety, and financial viability of our solar generation facilities. You will be responsible for managing maintenance teams, coordinating with external stakeholders, overseeing compliance, and driving efficiency improvements. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of solar power plant operations, and a commitment to renewable energy excellence in South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operations and maintenance (O&M) of large-scale solar farms.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to maximize energy production and minimize downtime.
• Oversee the performance of O&M contractors and internal maintenance teams.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, environmental, and quality (HSEQ) standards.
• Monitor plant performance, analyze data, and identify areas for improvement.
• Manage spare parts inventory and procurement for operational needs.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
• Liaise with grid operators, regulatory bodies, and community stakeholders.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and reliability.
• Ensure compliance with all power purchase agreements (PPAs) and licensing requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical), Operations Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in operations management within the power generation sector, with at least 4 years focused on solar PV plants.
• Proven track record of managing large-scale renewable energy assets.
• Strong understanding of solar PV technology, inverters, and SCADA systems.
• Demonstrated experience in O&M planning, budgeting, and contract management.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of South African energy regulations and grid codes is essential.
• Proficiency in relevant software for asset management and performance monitoring.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing site visits with office-based responsibilities.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package. The hybrid work arrangement supports work-life balance while ensuring effective oversight of operations in Polokwane, Limpopo. This role presents a significant opportunity for career growth within a leading IPP in the renewable energy sector. You will be part of a company committed to driving sustainable energy solutions in South Africa.