Plant Operations Manager at Andersen

Job Summary

Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited (MESL) is seeking an experienced Plant Operations Manager to oversee the operations of a major hydropower plant with a capacity of 980MW. The Plant Operations Manager will ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operation of the plant while focusing on long-term planning, maintenance, and asset management. This role demands strong leadership and technical expertise to manage a diverse team of engineers, operators, and technicians to achieve optimal plant performance and asset longevity

Job Details

1. Operational Management:
   • Lead day-to-day operations of the hydropower plant, ensuring it operates at maximum efficiency and within all safety and environmental standards.
   • Monitor and optimize the plant’s performance, including turbine and generator efficiency, balance of plant (BOP), water usage, and power output.
   • Ensure compliance with grid requirements and dispatch schedules to maintain stable and reliable power supply.
   • Ensure the effective and efficient operation of DCS/SCADA system in order to optimize plant performance.
   • Provides leadership for the appropriate use of operations procedures and instructions as the permit to work and lock out/tag procedures in order to promote safe operation and maintenance in the plant.
   • Prepares necessary plant operation reports in a timely manner and investigates all forced outages for the root cause analysis process.
2. Maintenance and Reliability:
   • Coordinate with maintenance teams the proper execution of preventive and corrective maintenance programs to minimize downtime and extend the lifespan of critical equipment.
   • Coordinate with maintenance and project teams and external contractors for major overhauls, repairs, or system upgrades.
   • Ensure all mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems operate within optimal parameters.
3. Planning and Asset Management:
   • Develop long-term operational and capital improvement plans for the plant, including major maintenance cycles, upgrades, and technological improvements.
   • Implement asset management strategies to ensure the longevity, reliability, and optimal performance of plant equipment and infrastructure.
4. Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) Compliance:
   • Ensure full compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations, including conducting regular safety drills and inspections.
   • Promote a culture of safety within the plant, ensuring all team members adhere to safety protocols and procedures.
   • Collaborate with the environmental team to manage water resources, monitor emissions, and ensure compliance with environmental standards.
5. Team Leadership and Development:
   • Lead, mentor, and manage a team of operators, engineers, and technicians, ensuring they are well-trained, motivated, and performing to the highest standards.
   • Conduct regular performance reviews, provide professional development opportunities, and foster a high-performance culture.
   • Ensure the plant is adequately staffed for 24/7 operations, including shift management and emergency response.
6. Budgeting and Resource Management:
   • Develop and manage the plant’s operational budget, including forecasting, cost control, and financial reporting.
   • Oversee procurement of spare parts, consumables, and other resources to ensure smooth plant operation while optimizing costs.
   • Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting of operational expenses.
7. Reporting and Data Management:
   • Maintain accurate records of plant operations, including production data, maintenance activities, and incidents.
   • Prepare and submit reports to senior management on plant performance, safety, regulatory compliance, and asset health.
   • Utilize data analytics and operational software to monitor performance trends and identify areas for improvement.
8. Regulatory and Grid Compliance:
   • Ensure full compliance with national grid regulations, energy market rules, and other legal requirements for hydropower operations.
   • Liaise with grid operators, regulatory bodies, and other key stakeholders to ensure smooth coordination and communication.
   • Stay informed about evolving regulations, technologies, and industry best practices to enhance plant performance.
9. Emergency Preparedness and Response:
   • Develop and implement emergency response plans for the plant, ensuring preparedness for any operational or environmental incidents.
   • Lead the plant’s response to emergency situations, coordinating with internal teams and external authorities as required.
10. Continuous Improvement:
    • Identify opportunities for operational efficiency improvements, including automation, advanced monitoring systems, and other technologies.
    • Implement process improvements to enhance plant output, reduce downtime, and optimize water usage.
    • Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and best practices to continually enhance plant performance.

Qualifications:

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Electronic Engineering. A Master’s degree in Engineering or Business Administration (MBA) is an advantage.
• Experience: Minimum of 12 years of experience in power generation, with at least 5 years in a managerial or senior operations role, preferably in the hydropower sector.
• Technical Knowledge: In-depth understanding of hydropower plant operations, turbine and generator systems, hydraulic structures, and grid interactions.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Strong understanding of regulatory and environmental requirements in the energy sector.
• Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead large teams in a fast-paced, highly technical environment.
• Financial Acumen: Experience managing budgets, optimizing costs, and financial reporting in a power generation setting.
• Proficiency in MS software and data analytics tools.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with internal teams, regulatory authorities, and external stakeholders.

Key Skills:

• Operational Excellence: Expertise in optimizing plant performance, minimizing downtime, and maximizing output.
• Leadership: Ability to lead and develop a diverse team of technical professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and safety.
• Planning and Asset Management: Ability to develop long-term plans, manage plant assets, and ensure their optimal performance and lifespan.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills to resolve operational challenges and implement long-term solutions.
• Project Management: Experience managing large-scale maintenance, upgrades, and improvement projects.
• Safety and Compliance: Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, compliance, and environmental stewardship.

Work Environment:

• The Plant Operations Manager will be based at the hydropower plant and will be responsible for on-site operations.
• The role requires a hands-on approach with frequent interaction with plant personnel, equipment, and systems.
• Occasional travel to other MESL sites and meetings with external stakeholders may be required.