Solar Farm Operations Manager

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

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary incentives

Medical insurance

Retirement plan

Company vehicle

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager for solar farm facilities near Paarl, Western Cape. You will lead day-to-day O&M, drive efficiency, and oversee a multi-disciplinary team to maximize energy production while maintaining safety and regulatory compliance.

The role combines on-site oversight with remote strategic planning, requiring 8+ years in power generation ops, solar PV experience, and strong leadership capabilities in the Western Cape region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or related technical field.
• 8+ years in operations and maintenance of power generation facilities, with 5+ years in solar PV.
• Experience managing large-scale solar projects (10MW+).
• Strong knowledge of solar PV tech, inverters, transformers, and SCADA.
• Budgeting, contract negotiation, and team leadership experience.
• Knowledge of SA electrical codes and OHS/environmental standards.

Responsibilities

• O&M oversight for multiple solar farm sites, safely and efficiently.
• Develop strategies to maximize energy production and minimize downtime.
• Lead site operations team including technicians and engineers.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and manage operational budgets with forecasting and reporting.
• Coordinate with maintenance, contractors, and suppliers for repairs.
• Monitor plant performance via SCADA and other tools; identify improvements.
• Manage asset integrity and lifecycle programs.
• Liaise with grid operators and regulators on plant operations.
• Drive continuous improvement to cut costs and raise efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Stakeholder management

SCADA systems

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree or MBA advantageous

Tools

SCADA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent independent power producer (IPP) managing a portfolio of renewable energy assets, is seeking an experienced Operations Manager for their solar farm facilities in the vicinity of **Paarl, Western Cape**. This senior position is responsible for the day-to-day operational management, maintenance, and performance optimization of large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) plants. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in power plant operations, electrical engineering, and team leadership within the renewable energy sector. You will ensure maximum energy generation, uphold stringent safety standards, and manage operational budgets effectively. This role requires a strategic approach to problem‑solving and a commitment to operational excellence in the **Western Cape**'s burgeoning renewable energy landscape. The position offers a hybrid work model, balancing essential on-site operational oversight with remote strategic planning and reporting.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the safe and efficient operation and maintenance (O&M) of multiple solar farm sites.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to maximize energy production and minimize downtime.
• Manage the site operations team, including technicians, engineers, and administrative staff.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, including forecasting, cost control, and financial reporting.
• Coordinate with maintenance teams, contractors, and suppliers to ensure timely and effective repairs and upgrades.
• Monitor plant performance using SCADA systems and other monitoring tools, identifying areas for improvement.
• Manage asset integrity, including preventative maintenance programs and asset lifecycle management.
• Liaise with grid operators, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders regarding plant operations.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field. A Master's degree or MBA is advantageous.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in operations and maintenance (O&M) of power generation facilities, with at least 5 years in solar PV plants.
• Proven experience managing large-scale solar farm projects (10MW+).
• Strong understanding of solar PV technology, inverters, transformers, and SCADA systems.
• Demonstrated experience in budget management, contract negotiation, and team leadership.
• Knowledge of South African electrical codes, safety regulations (e.g., OHS Act), and environmental standards.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Experience working within the **Western Cape** region is highly preferred.
• Willingness to travel regularly to site locations and work a hybrid schedule.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary package with significant performance‑based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development and industry certifications.
• Significant impact on the advancement of renewable energy in the **Western Cape**.