Job Description
Position: Power Plant Operations Engineer
Company: ZESA Holdings
Location: Kwekwe, Zimbabwe
Experience: 5+ years in power plant operations
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Energy
Department: Operations & Maintenance
Salary: SSP 300,000 – SSP 500,000 per month
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
ZESA Holdings is Zimbabwe’s leading electricity generation and distribution company, responsible for delivering reliable power to millions of homes and businesses across the nation. With a legacy spanning over six decades, ZESA has invested heavily in modernizing its generation fleet, incorporating both thermal and renewable energy sources to meet the growing demand for sustainable electricity. The organization prides itself on a culture of safety, innovation, and community engagement, positioning itself as a premier employer for professionals seeking to make a tangible impact on the country’s energy landscape. As part of its commitment to excellence, ZESA continuously seeks talent that can drive operational efficiency, uphold rigorous standards, and support the nation’s economic development. This Power Plant Operations Engineer role offers a unique opportunity to join a forward‑thinking team, contribute to critical infrastructure, and advance your career within a respected, internationally recognized utility.
Job Overview
The Power Plant Operations Engineer will be responsible for overseeing the day‑to‑day performance of the Kwekwe thermal power station, ensuring optimal generation output, compliance with environmental regulations, and adherence to safety protocols. Reporting to the Plant Manager, you will coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to monitor equipment health, troubleshoot operational issues, and implement continuous improvement initiatives. This position plays a pivotal role in maintaining the reliability of Zimbabwe’s power supply, directly supporting the nation’s industrial growth and everyday life. Candidates will work in a dynamic environment where technical expertise, analytical thinking, and proactive problem‑solving are essential. For more information about ZESA and its commitment to career development, visit the official portal at https://zimbabwejobsearch.com/. This posting is part of a broader effort to attract top talent for Zimbabwe Jobs, Jobs in Zimbabwe, and other Career Opportunities in Zimbabwe.
Key Responsibilities
- Monitor and control plant operations to achieve target generation capacity while minimizing fuel consumption.
- Conduct routine inspections, performance testing, and preventive maintenance of turbines, boilers, and auxiliary equipment.
- Analyze operational data, generate performance reports, and recommend corrective actions to senior management.
- Ensure strict compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations, including emission standards and occupational safety procedures.
- Lead incident investigations, root‑cause analyses, and implement corrective and preventive measures.
- Collaborate with the maintenance team to schedule outages, coordinate repairs, and manage spare‑part inventories.
- Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) and technical documentation.
- Participate in training programs and mentor junior engineers to foster a culture of continuous learning.
Required Skills
- Strong knowledge of thermal power plant systems, including steam cycles, combustion processes, and control instrumentation.
- Proficiency in SCADA, DCS, and plant monitoring software.
- Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a data‑driven approach.
- Effective communication skills for cross‑functional coordination and stakeholder reporting.
- Ability to work under pressure, prioritize tasks, and meet tight deadlines.
- Commitment to safety standards and environmental stewardship.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline is required. Professional certifications such as Certified Power Plant Engineer (CPPE) or equivalent are advantageous.
Experience
Applicants must have a minimum of five years of hands‑on experience operating or engineering within a thermal power generation environment. Experience with modern control systems and a track record of improving plant efficiency are highly valued.
Salary
The competitive salary range for this role is SSP 300,000 to SSP 500,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Additional performance‑based incentives may be offered.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health insurance covering employee and dependents.
- Pension scheme with employer contributions.
- Annual leave and paid public holidays in line with Zimbabwe labour law.
- Transportation allowance or company‑provided vehicle for site duties.
- Professional development budget for certifications and conferences.
- Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
Training
- On‑the‑job induction covering ZESA safety culture and operational protocols.
- Advanced technical workshops on turbine performance optimization.
- Leadership and supervisory training for career progression.
- Access to e‑learning platforms for continuous skill enhancement.
Working Environment
The role is based at the Kwekwe power station, a secure industrial facility equipped with modern control rooms, maintenance workshops, and on‑site amenities. Engineers work in both office settings and field environments, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) while conducting inspections or maintenance activities. ZESA promotes a collaborative atmosphere where engineers interact with operations staff, safety officers, and senior management to achieve shared objectives.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit an online application through the ZESA Careers portal, attaching an updated CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience. Applications will be screened by the Talent Acquisition team, and shortlisted applicants will be invited for a technical interview followed by a competency‑based assessment. Successful candidates will receive an offer letter detailing remuneration and start‑date.
Equal Opportunity Statement
ZESA Holdings is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees, regardless of gender, race, disability, or background, can thrive. Our hiring practices reflect our dedication to fairness, and we encourage qualified individuals from all segments of society to apply for this exciting opportunity.