AECI Water is offering an exciting opportunity for a Plant Operator to join their team in Modderfontein, Gauteng. This contract role is a chance to contribute to a company that is shaping a better world by focusing on innovation, sustainability, and responsible operations.
AECI is known for building careers where people don’t just clock in and out but make a meaningful impact every day. This position is not just about keeping the plant running smoothly—it’s about ensuring quality, safety, and environmental standards are always at the heart of operations.
What Does the Role Involve?
As a Plant Operator, you’ll be working on the frontlines of AECI Water’s operations. Your job will revolve around monitoring, controlling, and maintaining equipment and processes to ensure everything runs efficiently and safely. Every day brings a balance of routine checks, problem-solving, and attention to details that ensure water treatment and production meet strict quality standards.
Here’s a breakdown of what your responsibilities will look like:
- Safety First: Before anything else, safety checks and pre-start inspections will be part of your daily routine. AECI places a strong focus on employee health and safety, so you’ll play a big role in making sure operations remain risk-free.
- Running the Plant: You’ll operate the plant using PLC systems (Programmable Logic Controllers), which means monitoring processes digitally and stepping in to correct any deviations you spot.
- Record-Keeping: Accurate data is vital in this role. From filling out handover log sheets to capturing production data in the system, you’ll ensure there’s a clear record of daily activities and results.
- Water Sample Testing: As part of AECI Water’s high standards, you’ll be required to test and analyse water samples. Any deviations must be reported immediately to avoid disruptions or quality issues.
- Inspections and First-Line Maintenance: Visual checks, routine inspections, and first-line maintenance will help keep equipment in top shape. You’ll also manage the operation of dosing stations and chemical supplies.
- Start-Up and Shutdown Procedures: Whether it’s getting the Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant up and running or shutting it down safely, your role will ensure processes are followed correctly every time.
- Housekeeping and Compliance: Good housekeeping keeps the plant safe and efficient. You’ll also ensure proper storage of equipment and chemicals while adhering to governance, compliance, and environmental standards.
- Problem-Solving and Continuous Improvement: Beyond the daily routine, you’ll also be encouraged to look for ways to improve processes, whether it’s through better efficiency, reduced waste, or improved safety.
- Flexibility: At times, you may need to work overtime or respond to urgent call-outs. Flexibility and readiness are key parts of the job.
Skills and Qualities That Will Help You Succeed
This is a role that combines technical know-how with attention to detail and discipline. Here are some of the skills and attributes that will help you thrive:
- Focus and Concentration: Operating machinery and monitoring processes often involves repetitive tasks that require long periods of concentration without losing accuracy.
- Quick Decision-Making: If something goes wrong, you’ll need to act fast to prevent bigger issues. Calm thinking under pressure is a must.
- Technical Aptitude: Even though advanced qualifications are not required, basic knowledge of operational machinery is essential, along with a willingness to learn more.
- Teamwork and Communication: You won’t be working alone—this role involves clear communication during handovers and collaboration with colleagues to ensure smooth plant operations.
- Adaptability: Since the job includes shift work and occasional overtime, being flexible and open to varying schedules will make things easier.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the Plant Operator position at AECI Water, you’ll need:
- A Grade 12 / Matric certificate as your minimum qualification.
- Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment would be a strong advantage.
- The ability to remain focused during repetitive work.
- Confidence in acting quickly when challenges or process issues arise.
- Willingness to work shifts and adjust to a rotating schedule.
Why Join AECI Water?
Working at AECI Water is not just about having a job—it’s about being part of a company that is committed to growth, sustainability, and innovation. When you join the team, you’re joining a global brand that believes in “creating a better world.”
Here are some reasons this opportunity is worth considering:
- Impactful Work: You’ll be contributing to safe and sustainable water solutions that affect industries and communities.
- Learning and Growth: With hands-on experience, you’ll gain technical expertise in plant operations and exposure to world-class practices.
- Supportive Environment: AECI values its employees and prioritizes their safety, well-being, and career development.
- Stability with Flexibility: Though this role is contract-based, AECI offers opportunities for long-term growth for employees who prove themselves dedicated and capable.
A Role That Builds Your Career
Being a Plant Operator at AECI Water is not just an operational role—it’s an opportunity to build a career in the industrial and environmental sector. With South Africa facing increasing demands for sustainable solutions, skilled plant operators are more valuable than ever.
You’ll be gaining skills that can take you further in water treatment, manufacturing, and process operations. Whether your goal is to stay with AECI long-term or grow into other industrial roles, this position lays a solid foundation for future opportunities.
If you’re hardworking, safety-conscious, and ready to learn, this Plant Operator role at AECI Water could be the right fit for you. It offers hands-on experience, the chance to contribute to sustainability, and the opportunity to grow your career within a leading company.
Closing Date for Applications: 16 September 2025
