Senior Plant Operations Supervisor

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development

Paid annual and sick leave

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Plant Operations Supervisor to oversee daily plant activities at the Nelspruit facility in Mpumalanga. You will lead production, maintenance, and quality teams, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards while driving efficiency and waste reduction.

The role requires a National Diploma in operations-related fields and at least 5 years of supervisory experience in processing environments.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in a supervisory or management role within a plant operations environment.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Knowledge of production processes, quality control systems, and supply chain principles.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and MS Office.
• Willingness to work shifts at the Nelspruit facility.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily plant operations across production, maintenance, and quality teams.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and quality standards compliance.
• Monitor output and implement measures to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
• Manage staff scheduling, performance reviews, and training.
• Coordinate with maintenance for repairs and preventive maintenance.
• Maintain production records and report to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Problem solving

Communication

Operations oversight

Quality control

Education

National Diploma in Operations Management or Engineering

Tools

ERP systems

MS Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the agricultural processing industry, is seeking a diligent and experienced Senior Plant Operations Supervisor to oversee daily operations at their facility in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga . This role is critical for ensuring the efficient, safe, and compliant functioning of the entire plant. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in manufacturing or processing environments, exceptional leadership skills, and a proven ability to manage teams and optimize production workflows. You will be responsible for driving operational excellence, maintaining high standards of quality control, and ensuring the well-being of your team. This is an on-site position offering a challenging and rewarding career opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate the daily activities of plant operations staff, including production, maintenance, and quality control teams.
• Ensure that all operations are conducted in accordance with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Monitor production output and efficiency, implementing measures to optimize performance and minimize waste.
• Manage staff scheduling, performance reviews, and training to ensure a skilled and motivated workforce.
• Oversee inventory management for raw materials and finished goods, ensuring adequate stock levels.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement effective solutions to maintain production continuity.
• Collaborate with the maintenance department to schedule and oversee equipment repairs and preventative maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and company policies.
• Maintain detailed production records and generate regular reports for senior management.
• Foster a positive and safe working environment, promoting teamwork and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Minimum of a National Diploma in Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in a supervisory or management role within a plant operations environment, preferably in the food or agricultural processing sector.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Strong understanding of production processes, quality control systems, and supply chain principles.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision‑making abilities.
• Proficiency in relevant software, such as ERP systems and MS Office Suite.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations applicable to industrial operations.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work shifts as required and be physically present at the Nelspruit facility.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, reflecting the candidate's experience and responsibilities.
• Performance‑based bonuses are awarded.
• Comprehensive medical aid and a provident fund are provided.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement within the company are available.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave are standard benefits.
• You will be joining a stable and reputable company committed to operational excellence and employee growth within the vibrant Mpumalanga region.