Service Manager at Kempston Recruitment

• Our client is seeking an experienced and technically proficient Power Generation Service Manager.

Minimum Skills and Experience required:

• 5-7 years experience in power generation or critical power systems industry, with at least 3 years experience in a supervisory or management level role
• A relevant Trade qualification as a Qualified Electrician or Millwright is essential
• National Diploma or B-Tech in Electrical Engineering is highly advantageous.
• Expert-level electrical knowledge is non-negotiable. This must include proven proficiency in fault finding, troubleshooting and repairs on: 
• Low Voltage Sytems (LV)
• Alternators
• Protection relays
• Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS)
• Strong understanding of PLC-based control systems, including generator synchronization.

In-depth knowledge and configuration experience with major generator controllers such as:

• Deep Sea Electronics (DSE)
• ComAp (or similar)
• Extensive experience working with large industrial diesel generators across multiple engine brands 
• Valid drivers' license is essential 
• Proven ability to lead, manage, mentor, and develop a technical team.
• Strong commercial acumen; for quoting, contract negotiations and client management
• Applicants must be willing to travel to clients as/ when required 
• Applicants must be flexible to manage after-hours standby operations and resopnd to critical incidents

Duties and Responsibilities:

The successful candidate would be required, but not limited to; 

Team Leadership and Development:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of service technicians, scheduling work and managing performance to maximize efficiency and skill growth.
• Act as the senior technical authority and point of escalation for complex electrical diagnostics, including faults in alternators, LV switchgear, Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS), and synchronizing panels.
• Provide expert guidance on mechanical and advanced controller-related issues, ensuring a holistic approach to system reliability.
• Champion a culture of safety, precision, and continuous improvement, with a strong emphasis on electrical safety standards.
•  Service Operations & Technical Management:
• Direct the day-to-day workflow of the service department and workshop, overseeing everything from routine maintenance to new installations, commissioning, and complex electrical retrofits.
• Design and implement robust preventative maintenance programs focused on the entire power train, from the engine to the point of electrical connection.
• Manage the preparation and review of detailed technical quotations for repairs, system upgrades, maintenance contracts, and new service work.
• Ensure stringent quality control by inspecting work, signing off on major jobs, and implementing testing procedures for all electrical systems.
• Perform root cause analysis on complex electrical and mechanical failures to prevent recurrence. 

Client Relationship & Business Development:

• Serve as the primary technical and commercial contact for key clients, building trust through expert consultation and reliable service delivery.
• Proactively visit client sites to conduct needs analysis, advise on power quality, system upgrades, control system modernization, and integration with renewable systems.
• Drive the growth of the service department by identifying and securing new service level agreements (SLAs), particularly for clients with critical and complex power needs.

Technical & Safety Compliance:

• Maintain an expert level of product knowledge on the entire power generation system, including diesel engines (Volvo, Scania, Perkins, etc.), alternators, and associated electrical distribution hardware.
• Ensure all service operations strictly comply with SANS 10142 and other relevant electrical codes, as well as all occupational health and safety regulations.
• Oversee the standby and call-out roster, acting as the primary management contact for after-hours emergencies, particularly those of an electrical nature.