Industrial Engineer- VKB Group x1
Job Details
Job Title: Industrial Engineer
Company: VKB Agri Processors (Pty) Ltd – VKB Group
Business Unit: VKB Agri Processors Head Office
Industry: Agriculture and Food Processing
Job Function: Engineering
Location: Reitz, Free State
Employment Type: Permanent
Minimum Experience: Associate level
Posted Date: 18 October 2026
Closing Date: 28 October 2026
Qualifications Required: Degree in Industrial Engineering
Salary: Not specified in the advertisement
Job Description
VKB Agri Processors, part of the VKB Group, is seeking a proactive and analytical Industrial Engineer to improve production efficiency, optimise manufacturing processes and support operational excellence across its processing facilities.
The successful candidate will analyse production processes, identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve resource utilisation and coordinate projects that enhance overall plant performance. The role also involves operational reporting, capital investment planning, feasibility assessments and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
This opportunity is suited to an Industrial Engineering graduate with a strong interest in manufacturing, project coordination, data analysis and practical problem-solving.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for the following:
Design, analyse and improve production processes to increase efficiency and reduce waste.
Identify and evaluate opportunities for operational improvement across processing facilities.
Plan, coordinate and implement assigned projects from initiation to completion.
Monitor project budgets, timelines, deliverables and performance.
Prepare operational and production performance reports for management.
Conduct feasibility assessments for proposed projects and improvement initiatives.
Support short- and long-term capital expenditure planning.
Lead and coordinate special projects within the processing environment.
Assess the operational impact of new products and proposed process changes.
Conduct ergonomic assessments and workflow reviews to improve productivity and workplace effectiveness.
Coordinate contractors and service providers involved in capital projects.
Drive the implementation and monitoring of the Continuous Improvement (20 Keys) methodology.
Support management with action plans, corrective actions and improvement initiatives.
Collaborate with production teams, internal departments, suppliers and other stakeholders to maintain production and quality standards.
Mentor and support employees in adopting improved processes, operational standards and best practices.
Track improvement initiatives and report on their impact on business performance.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
A degree in Industrial Engineering.
A valid driver’s licence.
Access to reliable transport.
Preferred Experience
– At least 1–2 years of experience in a production or manufacturing environment.
Candidates with relevant exposure to production optimisation, project coordination and continuous improvement initiatives may be well suited to this role.
Required Skills and Competencies
Applicants should demonstrate the following skills and abilities:
Analytical thinking and problem-solving.
Decision-making and root cause analysis.
Production process analysis and optimisation.
Project planning and coordination.
Data analysis and operational reporting.
Advanced Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office proficiency.
Knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies.
Budget management and monitoring project timelines.
Operational performance monitoring.
Presentation and reporting skills.
Change management and implementation support.
Planning, organising and attention to detail.
Communication, influencing and relationship-building skills.
Accountability, teamwork and a results-oriented approach.
Advantageous: Knowledge or experience of the 20 Keys continuous improvement methodology.
About VKB Agri Processors
VKB Agri Processors is the value-adding and agricultural processing division of the VKB Group. It transforms agricultural commodities into quality products for customers across South Africa.
The VKB Group operates across the agricultural value chain, including farming support, processing, logistics, storage, handling and market distribution. The organisation focuses on operational excellence, innovation and sustainable growth within South African agriculture.
The successful candidate will have an opportunity to contribute to improved manufacturing performance, more efficient production processes and the development of practical solutions within the agricultural processing industry.
Employment Benefits and Opportunities
Although specific salary and benefits are not stated in the advertisement, the position offers an opportunity to:
Build a career in industrial engineering and agricultural processing.
Gain experience in manufacturing optimisation and operational performance.
Participate in capital projects and continuous improvement initiatives.
Work with production teams, management and external stakeholders.
Develop project management, analytical and technical skills.
Contribute to the agricultural value chain and food production in South Africa.