Globeleq, a leading independent power producer in Africa, continues to make transformative contributions to the continent’s energy landscape. With a diverse and sustainable energy portfolio, Globeleq plays a pivotal role in developing and operating power projects that meet Africa’s growing demand for clean, reliable electricity. Among its signature initiatives is the Menengai Geothermal Project in Kenya, a 35 MW greenfield geothermal power plant that signals a major milestone in the country’s renewable energy journey.
Located within the larger Menengai geothermal complex, this power plant is the second large-scale geothermal development in Kenya after the renowned Olkaria projects. Expected to reach commercial operation by the end of 2025, the facility will add significant baseload capacity to the national grid, supporting energy access, sustainability, and economic growth. Under a 25-year Project Implementation and Steam Supply Agreement (PISSA), steam for the plant will be supplied by the Geothermal Development Company (GDC), a state-owned enterprise. Power generated will be sold to Kenya Power under a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), ensuring stable revenue and grid integration.
As the project shareholder, Globeleq is leading the development, construction, operation, and long-term management of the Menengai Geothermal Project. The company is now seeking to onboard a qualified and motivated Shift Engineer to join the operations team. This role is instrumental in ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable performance of the plant, both during the mobilization phase and upon commencement of commercial operations.
The recruitment for this position is being conducted in partnership with Smart4Energy. For any queries regarding the position or application process, you may contact the team via email
Position: Shift Engineer
Department: Business Operations
Location: Kenya – Onsite
Employment Type: Permanent
Reporting To: Operations Manager
Application Deadline: July 11, 2025
Main Purpose of the Role
The Shift Engineer will play a key role in overseeing the operational integrity and performance of the Menengai Geothermal Power Plant. Reporting to the Operations Manager, this position requires a hands-on engineer capable of leading plant operations during designated shifts. The successful candidate will supervise plant operators, ensure compliance with Health, Safety, Environment, Social, and Security (HSESS) standards, carry out first-level maintenance, and contribute to plant optimization and performance reporting.
The role is pivotal for maintaining plant availability, safety, and regulatory compliance, and for fostering an environment of operational excellence.
Detailed Job Description
1. Mobilisation Period – Pre-Commercial Operations
During the pre-operational phase, the Shift Engineer will actively participate in all preparatory activities that will ensure seamless commissioning and eventual operation of the plant. Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting commissioning and mobilization activities initiated by the EPC contractor and OEMs.
- Participating in simulation exercises and operator training sessions to familiarize with plant systems.
- Reviewing and contributing to the development of O&M manuals, SOPs, and OEM guidelines.
- Assisting with the setup and population of the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), preferably SAP, with initial asset data and maintenance plans.
- Maintaining accurate plant documentation and producing periodic mobilization progress reports.
- Cataloguing and tracking the resolution of EPC punch list items.
- Engaging in contractor-led pre-commissioning activities and technical assessments.
- Supporting the establishment and implementation of the Permit-to-Work (PTW) and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) systems for plant safety and compliance.
2. Operational and Maintenance Period – Post Commercial Operation Date (COD)
Once the plant is operational, the Shift Engineer will manage operations during their assigned shifts, ensuring high levels of plant efficiency, safety, and reliability.
a) Power Plant Operation
- Operate steam turbines, auxiliary systems, and the balance of plant equipment, including start-ups and shutdowns, based on standard operating procedures.
- Ensure compliance with O&M manuals, OEM instructions, PPA, PISSA, and internal Globeleq requirements.
- Strive to optimize plant performance by maximizing output and minimizing parasitic loads.
- Monitor plant processes via the Distributed Control System (DCS) and promptly report any anomalies.
- Ensure adherence to environmental, quality, and safety standards during operation.
- Liaise with GDC and KPLC to comply with real-time grid dispatch requirements.
- Maintain detailed shift logs, reports, and documentation of anomalies and corrective actions.
- Work collaboratively with the maintenance team to resolve technical issues and improve system reliability.
- Analyze operational data and malfunctions to identify trends and recommend improvements.
- Actively contribute to short-term planning and operational meetings.
b) Shift Coordination
- Manage effective shift transitions by ensuring seamless handovers and clear communication.
- Document and communicate significant incidents, system faults, or operational deviations.
- Supervise plant operators, assign daily tasks, and provide coaching as necessary.
- Accurately transmit and receive operating instructions at each shift change.
- Maintain awareness of past operational conditions by reviewing shift logs and historical data.
c) First-Level Maintenance
- Conduct first-level maintenance activities such as lubrication, filter replacements, and minor adjustments.
- Implement assigned Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) activities through SAP or equivalent CMMS tools.
- Assist in scheduled plant inspections and participate in planned maintenance activities categorized as A, B, or C types.
- Collaborate with maintenance supervisors during major outages and inspections.
d) Incident and Emergency Response
- Act as the lead responder during operational emergencies or equipment malfunctions.
- Coordinate with internal and external emergency services when needed.
- Ensure accurate, timely documentation and reporting of all incidents, aligned with HSESS procedures.
e) Team Leadership
- Oversee the performance of plant operators, providing on-the-job training and feedback.
- Encourage a workplace culture consistent with Globeleq’s vision, values, and operational standards.
- Identify individual and team training needs, facilitating professional development programs.
- Represent site management during off-hours and weekends, ensuring continuous adherence to company protocols and safety procedures.
- Support human resource planning by liaising with the Operations Manager and HR Manager.
f) Compliance and HSESS
- Enforce safety policies, including PTW and LOTO systems, to protect personnel and assets.
- Ensure operational procedures align with internal audit requirements and compliance regulations.
- Promote safe work habits and assist with investigations and corrective actions following incidents or safety audits.
Qualifications, Skills, and Experience
Academic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Instrumentation/Control Engineering or an equivalent technical discipline.
- Professional registration with the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK).
Experience
- Minimum of 5 years in power plant operations, with preference given to those experienced in geothermal or steam turbine systems.
- Previous supervisory experience or shift leadership in a power generation setting is highly desirable.
Technical Skills and Expertise
- In-depth knowledge of thermodynamics, process safety, and plant control systems.
- Familiarity with DCS platforms, preferably Honeywell.
- Capable of interpreting P&IDs, electrical schematics, and operational manuals.
- Skilled in identifying abnormal operating conditions using sensory indicators like noise, odor, and temperature.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Word.
- Experience with SAP or similar CMMS platforms and digital monitoring systems is advantageous.
Behavioral and Leadership Competencies
- Proven leadership skills with the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
- Strong safety consciousness and attention to detail.
- Analytical mindset with a solutions-oriented approach to problem-solving.
- Effective communicator and team mentor who fosters inclusivity and high performance.
- Ethical, self-driven, and dependable, with the ability to work independently and within diverse teams.
- Willingness to work in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays.
About Globeleq
Globeleq is a trusted leader in power generation across Africa. With extensive industry experience and strong partnerships, the company is uniquely positioned to deliver sustainable energy solutions across a variety of technologies, including geothermal, solar, wind, and thermal power. Our mission is to power Africa’s potential, and we are proud to be at the forefront of energy transformation efforts in Kenya and beyond.
How to Apply
To apply for this opportunity as a Shift Engineer at the Menengai Geothermal Power Plant, please submit your application before July 11, 2025.
For any questions or clarifications about this position, kindly contact the recruitment team via
View all current opportunities with Globeleq on their official careers page.
