Sanitation manager (South Africa)

Join the BIG RED SA Team

BIG RED SA is a leading provider of innovative modular wastewater treatment solutions across Southern Africa. As our operations continue to expand, we are seeking experienced and passionate professionals to join our growing team.

This is an exciting opportunity to work with industry-leading technology on projects that support sustainable water management across the residential, commercial, industrial, hospitality, healthcare and education sectors. If you're looking for a rewarding career where your expertise can make a real impact, we encourage you to apply.

What You'll Do

• Operate, monitor and maintain wastewater treatment plants to ensure optimal performance.

• Conduct routine inspections, testing and performance assessments of treatment systems.

• Monitor and optimise biological treatment processes, including MBBR, SBR, MBR and similar technologies.

• Identify, troubleshoot and resolve operational and process-related issues.

• Perform preventative and corrective maintenance on plant equipment and systems.

• Commission new wastewater treatment plants and provide technical support during start-up.

• Ensure compliance with environmental legislation, permit conditions and regulatory requirements.

• Prepare and maintain accurate operational records, maintenance reports and compliance documentation.

• Monitor water quality and ensure treated effluent consistently meets the required discharge standards.

• Liaise with clients, contractors and regulatory authorities where required.

• Provide technical recommendations to improve plant efficiency, reliability and performance.

• Assist with the installation, upgrades and optimisation of modular wastewater treatment systems.

• Promote and maintain a safe working environment by adhering to all health and safety policies and procedures.

• Travel to client sites within South Africa and, where required, throughout Southern Africa.

• Represent BIG RED SA professionally while delivering exceptional customer service and technical expertise.

What We're Looking For

Qualifications

• National Diploma or Degree in Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Water Care, Environmental Science or a related field will be advantageous.

• Relevant trade qualification or technical certification in mechanical, electrical or instrumentation disciplines will be considered.

• Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) certification or similar industry accreditation will be advantageous.

• A valid Code B driver's licence is essential.

Experience

• Minimum of 3 to 5 years' experience in the wastewater treatment or sanitation industry.

• Proven experience in the operation, maintenance or management of wastewater treatment plants.

• Experience with biological treatment technologies such as MBBR, SBR, MBR or similar systems.

• Experience in plant commissioning, troubleshooting and process optimisation.

• Sound knowledge of environmental legislation, compliance standards and reporting requirements.

• Experience working with decentralised or private wastewater treatment facilities will be advantageous.

• Willingness to travel extensively to client sites across South Africa and, where required, throughout Southern Africa.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of wastewater treatment processes and plant operations.

• Excellent problem-solving and fault-finding abilities.

• Strong organisational and planning skills.

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, manuals and process flow diagrams.

• Good computer literacy, including Microsoft Office.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

• Strong customer service focus with a professional and proactive approach.

• Commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, quality and environmental compliance.