Shift Charge Engineer - RO Plant (Jubail)

About ACWA Operations

ACWA Operations stands at the forefront of delivering essential services with unmatched reliability and efficiency to millions who depend on them daily. As the operational and maintenance arm of ACWA—formerly known as NOMAC (The First National Operations & Maintenance Company)—we specialize in ensuring the safe, dependable, and cost-effective operation of power generation and water desalination assets throughout their entire lifecycle. Since our establishment in 2005, we have forged strategic partnerships across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, supporting critical infrastructure that powers communities and sustains economic growth. As part of the ACWA Group, we bring extensive technical expertise, robust operational systems, and a culture deeply rooted in performance and accountability. Our comprehensive services span commissioning, asset management, preventive and corrective maintenance, technical support, and continuous performance enhancement. We recognize that operational reliability and cost efficiency are not merely technical objectives—they are the foundation for ensuring that families have electricity at night, clean water in their homes, and industries can operate without disruption. By maximizing asset availability, strengthening resilience, and adhering to the highest safety and quality standards, ACWA Operations plays a pivotal role in advancing ACWA’s mission to provide sustainable, affordable energy and water solutions that elevate living standards and fortify communities worldwide.

About Jazlah IWP

Jazlah Water Desalination Company is a premier organization in Saudi Arabia’s water desalination sector, playing a vital role in meeting the nation’s growing demand for desalinated water. The company operates the Jubail Desalination Plant 3A, located in the industrial city of Jubail, with a daily production capacity of 600,000 cubic meters of desalinated water. Utilizing state-of-the-art Reverse Osmosis Seawater (SWRO) technology, the plant represents one of the most advanced and efficient methods in water desalination. Energy for the plant is sourced from the national grid (SEC), supplemented by photovoltaic solar energy, which supplies 20% of the total power requirement—demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Jazlah Water Desalination Company is dedicated to driving innovation in water desalination and enhancing the sustainability of water resources across the Kingdom.

Position Overview

Reporting directly to the Operations Manager, the Shift Charge Engineer – RO Plant (Jubail) holds a critical leadership role in ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the Reverse Osmosis (RO) desalination plant during assigned shifts. This position is responsible for overseeing all operational activities within the plant, ensuring strict adherence to approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), quality standards, production schedules, and regulatory requirements. The Shift Charge Engineer plays a key role in maintaining operational excellence, safeguarding personnel and assets, and supporting the plant’s mission to deliver high-quality desalinated water sustainably.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership and Safety: Ensure all plant operations are conducted in a safe, efficient, and compliant manner, with a strong focus on minimizing risks to personnel, equipment, and the environment. Maintain full awareness of safety hazards and enforce all safety rules and regulations.
• Technical and Procedural Compliance: Demonstrate a thorough understanding of plant operations and maintenance agreements, Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), SOPs, work instructions, control logics, emergency procedures, and regulatory requirements. Apply this knowledge to guide shift operations and decision-making.
• Shift Coordination and Communication: Act as the primary point of contact during the shift, coordinating all operational activities with other departments, including maintenance, chemistry, and engineering teams. Ensure seamless communication and collaboration to maintain plant integrity and performance.
• Permit to Work System: Maintain a comprehensive understanding of the permit-to-work system. Authorize, issue, and cancel permits as required, ensuring all work activities comply with safety protocols and regulatory standards.
• Production and Performance Management: Follow operational schedules to meet targeted production availability safely and efficiently. Monitor plant performance and take immediate corrective actions to address abnormalities, disturbances, or emergency situations.
• Plant Startup and Shutdown: Oversee the safe startup and shutdown of the plant in accordance with SOPs. Conduct startup checklists, interlock checks, protection tests, and non-routine activities such as preservation and acid cleaning as authorized.
• Emergency Response: Act decisively during emergency conditions to mitigate risks, protect personnel, and restore normal operations. Implement emergency operation procedures with precision and urgency.
• Team Supervision and Support: Provide guidance and direction to shift personnel, fostering a culture of accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement. Support training and development initiatives to enhance team competency.

Qualifications and Competencies

Candidates for this role should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Chemical, or Electrical Engineering, or a related field, complemented by relevant professional certifications. A minimum of five years of experience in water desalination, preferably in a Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant environment, is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills are critical, along with the ability to work effectively under pressure in a dynamic operational setting. Proficiency in safety management systems, emergency response protocols, and regulatory compliance is required. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are necessary to collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.