Senior Power Plant Operations Manager

Placements24; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Company vehicle

Retirement fund contributions

Performance-based bonus

Relocation assistance

Professional development opportunities

Access to advanced operational tech

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Power Plant Operations Manager in Midrand, Gauteng, to oversee the safe and efficient operation of a state-of-the-art energy facility. The role requires strong leadership, deep technical knowledge, and a track record of optimizing plant performance.

You will lead a team of engineers and operators, manage budgets, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive continuous improvement initiatives across maintenance, safety, and operations.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive experience in power plant operations.
• Experience leading large operational teams and managing budgets.
• Strong knowledge of power plant systems and safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage daily power plant operations for safe, reliable energy production.
• Develop strategies, procedures, and metrics to meet plant objectives.
• Oversee preventive and corrective maintenance to maximize uptime.
• Manage budgets and identify efficiency improvements.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance.
• Lead and mentor plant operators, engineers, and maintenance staff.
• Coordinate with engineering, support teams and contractors.
• Monitor performance data and implement corrective actions.
• Oversee fuel supply and resource logistics.
• Conduct safety audits, risk assessments, and drills.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Budget management

Data analysis

Decision making

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Advanced degree or professional certifications (P.Eng)

Tools

Operations management software

Maintenance planning tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Senior Power Plant Operations Manager to oversee the efficient and safe operation of their state-of-the-art energy generation facility in Midrand, Gauteng. This critical role demands strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of power plant technology, and a proven track record in managing complex operational environments. You will be responsible for ensuring maximum plant availability, optimizing performance, maintaining stringent safety standards, and managing operational budgets. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional problem-solving abilities, strategic planning capabilities, and a commitment to operational excellence. Join a leading energy provider committed to delivering reliable power and driving innovation in the sector. Your leadership will be instrumental in maintaining the highest standards of operational integrity and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all day-to-day operations of the power plant, ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient energy generation.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, procedures, and performance metrics to achieve plant objectives.
• Oversee maintenance activities, including preventative and corrective maintenance, to maximize plant uptime and equipment longevity.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance standards.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of plant operators, engineers, and maintenance personnel.
• Coordinate with engineering, technical support, and external contractors as needed.
• Monitor plant performance data, troubleshoot operational issues, and implement corrective actions.
• Manage fuel supply and other essential resource logistics.
• Conduct regular safety audits, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness drills.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical) or a related field.
• An advanced degree or relevant professional certifications (e.g., P.Eng) are highly desirable.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in power plant operations and management, with a strong understanding of various generation technologies.
• Demonstrated experience in leading large operational teams and managing complex budgets.
• Proven track record of improving plant performance, reliability, and safety.
• In-depth knowledge of power plant systems, equipment, maintenance practices, and operational protocols.
• Strong understanding of safety regulations, environmental compliance, and industry best practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and make critical decisions in demanding situations.
• Proficiency in operations management software and data analysis tools.
• Experience with independent power producers (IPPs) or large-scale utility operations is preferred.

Benefits

• An attractive annual salary of up to ZAR, commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, disability, and life insurance coverage.
• Generous retirement fund contributions.
• Performance-based bonus structure and incentive programs.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and leadership training.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
• A challenging and rewarding career in a vital industry.
• Company vehicle and other allowances.
• Access to advanced operational technologies.
• Strong emphasis on workplace safety and employee well-being.