Plant Manager – Water Treatment

About the role

We are seeking a Plant Manager to lead the daily operations of a nano‑filtration water treatment facility in Abu Dhabi. The role focuses on ensuring optimal performance, safety, and compliance while delivering high‑quality water output.

Key responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of plant operations, including nano‑filtration, pre‑treatment, post‑treatment, and auxiliary equipment.
• Monitor and optimise system performance to maintain consistent water quality and throughput.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all plant processes.
• Supervise, mentor and schedule plant staff (operators, technicians, maintenance personnel) for 24/7 operations.
• Oversee preventive and corrective maintenance of membranes, pumps, valves, instrumentation and control systems.
• Coordinate upgrades and repairs with engineering and technical teams.
• Ensure compliance with local, national and international water quality and environmental regulations.
• Maintain safety protocols, conduct audits and risk assessments, and prepare regulatory reports.
• Prepare and manage the plant budget, control costs and optimise resource utilisation.
• Analyse operational data, generate performance reports and identify improvement opportunities.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical, Environmental, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 5–7 years of experience in water treatment or membrane filtration, including at least 2 years in a managerial role.
• Strong knowledge of desalination; nano‑filtration experience is a plus.
• Excellent leadership, communication and problem‑solving abilities.
• Fluent technical English (spoken and written) and ability to work under pressure.

Required skills

• Nano‑filtration membrane technology
• Desalination processes
• SCADA systems
• Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
• Computerised Maintenance Management System (CMMS)
• Automated control systems
• ISO standards and quality management systems
• Sustainability and energy‑efficient operation practices