Senior Solar Operations Manager — Hybrid (Polokwane)

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Comprehensive benefits package

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

HSEQ knowledge

Regulatory knowledge

SCADA awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

SCADA systems

Asset management software

Job description

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.