Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Accomplishments
Certification
References
SELECTED SCIENTIFIC PAPERS AND REPORTS
Work availability
Quote
Timeline
Generic
Nompumelelo Deanah Mkolo

Nompumelelo Deanah Mkolo

Vukuzakhe,South Africa

Summary

Results-driven water and sanitation professional with over ten years of experience in operations, project management, and water infrastructure optimisation. Holds a BSc and a M-tech (Masters) in Civil Engineering and an Honors Degree in Development Studies, currently pursuing a PhD in Civil Engineering focused on Energy-Water Nexus and Demand Management. Proven expertise in water quality control, bulk water project management, and operational excellence, with a strong track record in enhancing municipal performance through programs such as Blue, Green, and No Drop, and delivering recognition for best-performing municipality initiatives under EPWP (Public Works National recognition and Employer). Adept at applying hydrological models (HEC-HMS), Microsoft Office, and Power Apps to streamline data analysis, workflows, optimise processes, and improve reporting and decision-making.

Recognised for strong analytical, problem-solving, and leadership skills, with experience in fostering team collaboration and stakeholder engagement. Active contributor to the water sector as former Chairperson of Young Water Professionals Mpumalanga Chapter and National Board Member of Young Water Professionals (WISA).

Overview

15
15
years of professional experience
10
10
Certification

Work history

Water Operation Officer

Eskom
Sandton, Gauteng
07.2023 - 09.2025

Water Management

  • Ensured compliance with Bulk Water Use License through effective support of water supply services to Eskom Power Station.
  • Maintain accurate water usage records and track consumption trends from all coal Power stations.
  • Implement water conservation and demand management measures and support sustainability initiatives.
  • Monitored water balance and power station statistics to uphold regulatory requirements.
  • Consolidated monthly reports on environmental, engineering, and water operations for performance insights.

Contract Management & Administration

  • Controlled and reported on contract usage for NEC3 professional services and other engineering/construction term contracts.
  • Managed contract compliance assurance and performance indices to minimise contractual risk.
  • Assessed the competency and capacity of external resources and managed perpetual contractual breaches.

Contract Coordination & Reporting

  • Maintained accurate contract information in management systems, ensuring traceability and audit readiness.
  • Managed contract change processes, milestones, and performance indices to support integrated project planning.

Analysis, Risk & Cost Control

  • Conducted contract analysis, identified variances, claims, and compensation events.
  • Assessed planned vs actual payments and monitored progress against critical milestones.
  • Provided guidance on cost containment and advised on contractual risks affecting project delivery.
  • Captured lessons learnt to improve future contract planning and estimating databases.

Dispute Resolution & Legal Support

  • Managed dispute resolution, adjudications, and arbitration processes, including documentation for presiding officers.

Contract Documentation & Strategy

  • Updated contract documentation to comply with NEC/FIDIC and other standards.
  • Assisted in selecting contract strategies, conditions, and options.
  • Facilitated stakeholder reviews to ensure contractual, legislative, regulatory, and SHERQ compliance.

Tender Evaluation & Negotiations

  • Supported tender evaluations, contract clarifications, and cost negotiations.
  • Assessed costs, contractual risks, and guided clarification meetings.
  • Participated in contractor negotiations to conclude contracts efficiently.

Governance, Compliance & SHERQ

  • Ensured compliance with Eskom governance processes, statutory requirements, and SHERQ standards.
  • Monitored adherence to internal procedures, training, and risk management protocols.

Technician (Chemical Services)

Eskom Majuba Power Station
Volksrust, Mpumalanga
09.2022 - 06.2023

Water Management

  • Monitor water quality and perform risk assessments to ensure safe and compliant operations.
  • Conduct chemical monitoring and control of chemical plants, addressing deviations as required.
  • Engage with key water stakeholders to support sustainable water management initiatives.

Project Coordination & Reporting

  • Perform project management and administrative activities, including ad hoc tasks.
  • Manage contract documentation, tender evaluations, clarifications, and cost negotiations.
  • Support engineering change management and participate in production technical forums.

Technical Maintenance & Innovation

  • Maintain analytical and online instrumentation to ensure accurate data collection.
  • Maintain comprehensive quality control systems for chemical and water processes.
  • Review and update policies and procedures to support operational efficiency.

Health, Safety & Compliance

  • Ensure compliance with Eskom and site-specific governance, SHERQ processes, and training requirements.
  • Participate in incident investigations, audits, and SHEQ meetings to uphold safety and environmental standards.
  • Manage team performance and development to enhance skills, knowledge, and capabilities

Senior Water and Sanitation Technician

Govan Mbeki Local Municipality
Secunda, Mpumalanga
03.2021 - 08.2022

Water & Sanitation Management

  • Led initiatives to improve water quality, sanitation services, and overall community health outcomes.
  • Collaborated with stakeholders to assess community needs and implement targeted interventions.
  • Developed and maintained documentation for water supply and sanitation systems.
  • Implemented best practices in waste management and environmental sustainability.
  • Utilized advanced water testing equipment to ensure adherence to quality standards.

Health, Safety & Compliance

  • Ensured compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations across operations.
  • Conducted comprehensive risk assessments and promoted safe work practices.
  • Improved safety through regular inspection of pump stations, electrical systems, and components.
  • Maintained a clean working environment in line with health and safety standards.

Technical Maintenance & Innovation

  • Streamlined operations and troubleshooting processes, enhancing system efficiency.
  • Executed preventative maintenance on key machines, significantly reducing downtime.
  • Maintained and repaired complex technical equipment, ensuring operational continuity.
  • Assisted in the design and development of new equipment, contributing to innovation.
  • Followed detailed schematics to improve accuracy and product quality.

Project Coordination & Reporting

  • Coordinated with engineers, technicians, and wider teams to ensure timely project delivery.
  • Supported high-priority projects, contributing to team targets and organizational goals.
  • Prepared detailed inspection and technical reports to facilitate informed decision-making.

Engineering Technician (Project Management)

Gert Sibande District Municipality
01.2018 - 12.2021

Coordination and Reporting

  • Coordinated cross-functional teams, ensuring seamless collaboration and on-time delivery of water and sanitation projects.
  • Developed and maintained detailed project schedules, proactively identifying and mitigating potential delays.
  • Compiled and updated technical reports for stakeholders, improving decision-making through clear and accurate reporting.
  • Facilitated project meetings to drive innovative solutions and streamline workflows, reducing operational bottlenecks.
  • Mentored junior engineering technicians, enhancing team capability and knowledge transfer across project.

Technical, Maintenance, and Innovation

  • Directed project management initiatives, achieving timely delivery of water infrastructure solutions aligned with community needs.
  • Conducted feasibility studies and operational analyses, recommending cost-effective improvements to water management systems.
  • Applied engineering expertise to optimise water distribution and treatment processes, improving efficiency and service reliability.
  • Interpreted and reviewed blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings to ensure robust design and operational efficiency.
  • Implemented quality control measures, ensuring compliance with engineering standards and enhancing project outcomes.
  • Performed site inspections and experimental tests, collecting accurate design data to refine project execution.
  • Diagnosed and resolved complex technical issues, minimising downtime and operational disruptions.
  • Streamlined processes through workflow optimisation and innovative problem-solving, boosting overall project efficiency.
  • Updated technical documentation, ensuring accurate knowledge transfer and alignment with regulatory requirements.

Health, Safety, and Compliance

  • Enforced safety standards by implementing rigorous testing protocols and conducting comprehensive site inspections.
  • Monitored compliance with engineering and regulatory standards, ensuring full adherence during project execution.
  • Recommended operational improvements that enhanced efficiency while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Water Quality Controller

Dr. Pixely Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality
01.2012 - 12.2017

Water Quality Monitoring & Compliance (SANS 241 of 2011)

  • Monitored and assessed water quality parameters to ensure compliance with municipal and environmental regulations.
  • Developed and implemented procedures for sampling, testing, and analysis of water sources.
  • Conducted investigations into deviations from standards and implemented corrective actions.
  • Participated in environmental impact assessments to evaluate potential effects on water resources.
  • Carried out regular audits and risk assessments, ensuring adherence to safety and industry standards.

Laboratory & Technical Oversight

  • Oversaw calibration, operation, and maintenance of laboratory equipment used in water analysis.
  • Applied advanced analytical skills to interpret test data, ensuring accurate reporting and record-keeping.
  • Developed improved testing protocols and streamlined procedures for greater efficiency and accuracy.
  • Prepared comprehensive reports on water quality findings to support municipal decision-making.

Stakeholder & Community Engagement

  • Collaborated with local agencies and stakeholders to address water quality issues and raise awareness.
  • Responded to public complaints on water quality, conducting timely investigations and resolutions.
  • Liaised with suppliers and production teams to ensure consistent quality of inputs and outputs.
  • Fostered a culture of quality awareness and continuous improvement across departments.

Leadership & Training

  • Trained and mentored junior staff (Process Controllers) on best practices in water quality monitoring.
  • Provided training on quality control measures, enhancing staff knowledge and compliance.
  • Coordinated with cross-functional teams to align on quality standards and resolve issues promptly.

Health, Safety & Environmental Stewardship

  • Ensured workplace safety through strict adherence to OHS and environmental regulations.
  • Implemented policies and safety devices to mitigate hazards and improve working conditions.
  • Researched and developed engineering solutions to address operational challenges.
  • Oversaw field projects, ensuring compliance with engineering designs, codes, and specifications.

Project Management Unit Adminis trator / EPWP

Dr. Pixely Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality
Volksrust, Mpumalanga
07.2010 - 08.2012

Projects Management

  • Provide administrative and coordination support to the Project Manager.
  • Assist in planning, scheduling, and tracking multiple municipal projects simultaneously.
  • Ensure timely completion of project deliverables and adherence to deadlines.

Project Coordination & Reporting

  • Consolidate and submit monthly, quarterly, biannual, and annual project reports.
  • Prepare and submit project reports for Extended Public Work Programme (EPWP) & MIG.
  • Maintain registers and site-visit reports to support project monitoring.
  • Liaise with stakeholders to ensure effective communication and project alignment.

Technical Maintenance & Innovation

  • Support maintenance planning and execution, including site inspections and technical reporting.
  • Assist with the implementation of innovative solutions to improve municipal project operations.
  • Maintain accurate technical documentation and project records.

Health, Safety & Compliance

  • Ensure project activities comply with relevant municipal regulations and safety standards.
  • Support risk assessments, site safety inspections, and corrective actions.
  • Assist in monitoring compliance with applicable legislation and internal policies.

Plant operator – Waste Water Treatment and Water treatment (Intern)

Dr. Pixely Ka Isaka Seme Municipality
01.2007 - 12.2008
  • Monitored and controlled water and wastewater treatment processes to ensure compliance with municipal, environmental, and safety regulations.
  • Conducted sampling, testing, and analysis of water quality parameters to safeguard public health.
  • Operated, maintained, and calibrated treatment plant equipment, ensuring efficiency and reliability.
  • Identified and rectified process deviations, implementing corrective measures to maintain quality standards.
  • Prepared operational and compliance reports for management and regulatory stakeholders.
  • Supported preventative maintenance programs to minimize downtime and improve plant performance.
  • Trained and guided junior staff in process operations, safety protocols, and quality monitoring.
  • Promoted sustainability through efficient use of resources and adherence to best practices in water and wastewater management.

Education

Doctoral of Civil Engineering - Energy Water Nexus the green pathway framework for Water Infrastrucutre Demand Management Technology

Vaal University of technology
Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng
01.2025 -

Master of Civil Engineering - Water Demand Management Research

Vaal University of Technology
Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng
03.2018 - 10.2022

Bachelor of Development Studies Honours - Water Resource Management Research

University of Limpopo
Polokwane, Limpopo
02.2008 - 11.2009

Baccalaureus Technologiae - Civil Engineering Water

University of South Africa
Pretoria, Gauteng
03.2019 - 11.2021

Bachelor of Science - Water and Sanitation Modules

University of Limpopo
Polokwane, Limpopo
02.2005 - 11.2007

Skills

  • Hydrological Models Application (HEC-HMS)
  • Power App (Develop)
  • Knowledge of operational standards
  • Team leader/ Teamwork/collaboration & Good communication
  • Research skills
  • Problem solving
  • Analytical skills using SPSS
  • Presentation skills , Report writing & Co-ordination skill
  • Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently Analysis/judgement/problem-solving

Affiliations

  • WATER INSTITUTE OF SOUTHERN AFRICA, Upgrading for PR, 2008
  • SACNASP, 126265, 2021
  • ECSA Registration, Waiting for response,

Accomplishments

  • Best performing Employee for Championing EPWP at Dr. Pixley KaIsake Seme Local Municipality
  • Best Performing EPWP project coordinator for the Environmental Sector.
  • Awarded First Place for the National EPWP best performing Municipality.

Certification

  • Municipal Institute of Learning Water and Sanitation Master Class July 2015
  • South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) Getting Acquainted with Water Resources Management October 2019
  • Vaal University of Technology Master’s Proposal Development November 2017
  • Expanded Public Works Programme Pipe Laying and Maintenance November 2008
  • Expanded Public Works Programme Water Reticulation November 2008
  • University of Limpopo Computer Literacy October 2008
  • Eskom Introduction to Contract Management March 2024
  • Eskom SAP System May 2024
  • BRICS RI Research Conference 25-27 September 2024
  • Water Net Research/WARFSA/GWPSA Symposium 30- 1st November 2024.

References

Vaal University of Technology HOD of Civil Engineering Department

Prof. George Mathews Ochieng (Supervisor for M-Tech and D Eng )

Contact details: 016 950 9420 / 071 680 6272 ; email: Georgeo@vut.ac.za

University of South Africa Civil Engineering B-tech  former Lecture and ECSA Mentor

Dr. Pramod Sinha Professional Mentor for ECSA

Contact details: 083 639 0348 ; email:sinha@mweb.co.za

Eskom Primary Energy Department General Manager

Mr. Nandha Govender

Contact details: 011 800 4080 / 083 400 8403 email: GovendDS@eskom.co.za

Govan Mbeki Local Municipality Manager Water and Sanitation

Ms.Hape Setenane

Contact details: 017 620 6000 /073 900 3360 ; email: hape.s@govanmbeki.gov.za

Dr. Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Former Water and Sanitation Manager

Contact details: 073 804 4613; email:

SELECTED SCIENTIFIC PAPERS AND REPORTS

  • Mkolo N.D.2024. Options models that meet water demand management target. Journal Paper presented at Eskom Conference
  • Mkolo, N.D. 2023. Water demand management option model, A case study of Ermelo, South presented at BRICS Research Institution
  • Africa. Vaal University of Technology Maters Thesis. Faculty of Engineering & Technology, Department of Civil Engineering
  • Mkolo N.D.,2023 Ochieng G.M, Marrengane Z.G, Leswifi T., Motlhodi L. Hybrid water
  • supply systems and conjunctive use in the context of water sensitive settlements: A case study of Sekhukhune District. (WRC PROJECT NO: K5 NUMBER: 2534)
  • Mkolo N.D. 2009. Water Resources Management and Domestic Water Quality: A case study of
  • Volksrust, South Africa. University of Limpopo Honours Degree. Faculty of Economics and
  • Management Academic Programmes, Department of Development Studies

Work availability

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
swipe to browse

Quote

The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.
Walt Disney

Timeline

Doctoral of Civil Engineering - Energy Water Nexus the green pathway framework for Water Infrastrucutre Demand Management Technology

Vaal University of technology
01.2025 -

Water Operation Officer

Eskom
07.2023 - 09.2025

Technician (Chemical Services)

Eskom Majuba Power Station
09.2022 - 06.2023

Senior Water and Sanitation Technician

Govan Mbeki Local Municipality
03.2021 - 08.2022

Baccalaureus Technologiae - Civil Engineering Water

University of South Africa
03.2019 - 11.2021

Master of Civil Engineering - Water Demand Management Research

Vaal University of Technology
03.2018 - 10.2022

Engineering Technician (Project Management)

Gert Sibande District Municipality
01.2018 - 12.2021

Water Quality Controller

Dr. Pixely Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality
01.2012 - 12.2017

Project Management Unit Adminis trator / EPWP

Dr. Pixely Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality
07.2010 - 08.2012

Bachelor of Development Studies Honours - Water Resource Management Research

University of Limpopo
02.2008 - 11.2009

Plant operator – Waste Water Treatment and Water treatment (Intern)

Dr. Pixely Ka Isaka Seme Municipality
01.2007 - 12.2008

Bachelor of Science - Water and Sanitation Modules

University of Limpopo
02.2005 - 11.2007
Nompumelelo Deanah Mkolo