Production Officer – Seed Processing x1
Job Details
Job Title: Production Officer – Seed Processing
Company: VKB Group
Division: VKB Commercial Services
Business Unit: Seed Processing
Location: Reitz, Free State
Employment Type: Permanent
Industry: Agriculture
Minimum Experience: Associate level; 3–5 years of relevant experience required
Posted Date: 14 October 2026
Closing Date: 23 October 2026
Salary: Not specified
Company Overview
The VKB Group is an agricultural company that supports farmers and supplies food products to consumers. Its operations span the agricultural value chain, including production, processing, logistics, storage, handling and distribution.
The group operates through regional brands such as VKB, GWK and NTK. Its Seed Processing Plant in Reitz plays an important role in supplying high-quality, certified seed to agricultural producers across South Africa.
Job Description
The Production Officer will coordinate and control seed production activities, from production planning and processing to certification, packaging, storage, inventory management and customer delivery.
The role requires a technically skilled agricultural professional with knowledge of seed processing, quality assurance, production planning and regulatory compliance. The successful candidate will work closely with seed producers, farmers, customers, employees and industry stakeholders to ensure that production targets are achieved while maintaining high-quality standards.
The position also involves supervising employees, managing resources, analysing production data and identifying opportunities to improve operational efficiency.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
Coordinating production planning and monitoring progress against approved schedules.
Managing seed processing activities, including sieving, treatment, packaging and storage.
Ensuring compliance with VKB policies, SANSOR requirements and ISTA regulations.
Managing inventory, stock accuracy and product traceability.
Coordinating seed sampling, testing, grading and certification.
Liaising with seed producers regarding production schedules, deliveries and quality requirements.
Building and maintaining relationships with customers and industry stakeholders.
Monitoring fleet utilisation and reporting deviations in accordance with company policies.
Managing overtime, workforce planning and labour efficiency.
Supporting human resources activities within the processing plant.
Maintaining health, safety, risk management and operational standards.
Analysing production data and preparing operational reports.
Identifying opportunities to improve production efficiency and product quality.
Keeping up to date with seed-processing technologies, industry developments and best practices.
Training, mentoring and coaching employees to support their development.
Assisting with sales and seed distribution activities when required.
Requirements and Qualifications
Educational Qualifications
Applicants must have:
A Diploma or Degree in Plant Production, Agronomy, Botany, Agriculture or a related field.
Registration as a SANSOR Field Inspector, or a willingness to obtain certification.
Certification as a SANSOR Sampler, or a willingness to obtain certification.
A valid driver’s licence.
Fumigation knowledge or capability, as specified in the vacancy requirements.
Advantageous qualifications:
Qualified Seed Analyst.
Grain Grader qualification.
Work Experience
Candidates should have:
3–5 years of experience in seed production, seed processing or seed certification.
Practical knowledge of seed processing, packaging, handling, storage and certification.
Experience with SANSOR systems and regulatory requirements.
Experience in inventory management and production planning.
Exposure to customer service, sales or agricultural marketing.
Experience supervising or leading teams in an agricultural processing environment.
Advanced Microsoft Excel proficiency.
Key Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate should demonstrate the following skills:
Seed certification and quality assurance.
Production planning and scheduling.
Inventory management and stock control.
Data analysis and operational reporting.
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
Knowledge of SANSOR systems, seed conditioners and seed sieves.
Agricultural product knowledge.
Understanding of regulations and compliance requirements.
Leadership, coaching and employee development.
Problem-solving and analytical thinking.
Planning, organising and decision-making.
Attention to detail and accountability.
Customer service and stakeholder relationship management.
Negotiation and effective communication.
Fluency in Afrikaans and English, both spoken and written.
Adaptability, resilience and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Benefits of Joining VKB Group
The vacancy highlights the following opportunities:
Contributing to South African agriculture and food security.
Gaining experience in a specialised seed production environment.
Access to continuous learning and professional development opportunities.
Building relationships with farmers, producers, customers and industry stakeholders.
Working in a team culture focused on accountability, innovation, teamwork and excellence.