Junior Nutritionist – Qpro Feeds (VKB Group)
- Company: VKB Group
- Business Unit: Qpro – Bethlehem Feed Plant
- Location: Bethlehem, Free State
- Division: VKB Agri Processors
- Industry: Agriculture / Animal Feed Manufacturing
- Job Functional Area: Product Management
- Posted Date: 02 November 2026
- Closing Date: 08 November 2026
Company Overview
The VKB Group is a leading agricultural company that supports farmers and produces farm-to-consumer food products. Its operations cover the entire agricultural value chain, including farming support, processing, logistics, storage, handling and distribution.
Qpro Feeds, a division of VKB Group, specialises in manufacturing animal feed at its Bethlehem and Vrede facilities. The business supplies animal feed to both internal and external customers in the monogastric and ruminant sectors.
Job Overview
Qpro Feeds is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Junior Nutritionist to join its team at the Bethlehem Feed Plant.
The successful candidate will assist with animal feed formulation, nutritional analysis, quality assurance and production support. The role involves ensuring that animal feed products meet the required nutritional specifications while supporting efficient manufacturing processes.
This position is suitable for an Animal Science or Animal Nutrition graduate, or an early-career professional looking to develop practical experience in animal nutrition and feed manufacturing.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for the following:
A. Feed Formulation and Nutritional Management
Assist with maintaining and updating animal feed formulations using formulation software.
Monitor nutritional specifications to ensure consistent feed quality and performance.
Evaluate alternative raw materials and feed additives for nutritional value and cost savings.
Support least-cost feed formulation while maintaining product quality.
Assist with feed trials and performance monitoring.
B. Quality Assurance and Control
Monitor the quality and nutritional parameters of raw materials.
Assist with interpreting laboratory results and nutritional analyses.
Support quality assurance processes and ensure compliance with company standards.
Work with Quality Control personnel to monitor moisture levels, contamination risks and nutrient deviations.
Investigate quality-related problems and assist with corrective actions.
Support the management and utilisation of rework materials and ingredients.
C. Production Support
Work closely with production teams to ensure feed is manufactured according to formulation specifications.
Assist with technical queries relating to feed formulations and ingredient usage.
Monitor batching accuracy and compliance with formulation instructions.
Assist with formulation adjustments during raw material shortages or production challenges.
Participate in troubleshooting issues relating to pellet quality, mixing consistency and feed performance.
D. Compliance and Administration
Ensure compliance with company policies, feed safety standards and relevant industry regulations, including AFMA requirements where applicable.
Maintain accurate formulation records, nutritional data and technical documentation.
Assist with technical reports and data analysis.
Support raw material and feed additive stock management.
Participate in audits and continuous improvement initiatives.
E. Customer and Technical Support
Provide basic technical support to sales teams and customers regarding animal feed products and feeding programmes.
Assist in resolving customer complaints relating to feed quality and animal performance.
Support on-farm investigations and technical visits when required.
Minimum Requirements and Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Educational Qualifications
– BSc Degree or Diploma in:
Animal Science.
Animal Nutrition.
Agricultural Science.
A related field.
Work Experience
1–3 years’ experience in an animal nutrition or feed manufacturing environment is preferred.
Exposure to feed formulation systems is advantageous.
Experience or exposure to feed mill operations will be an added advantage.
Skills and Competencies Required
Candidates should demonstrate the following:
Technical Skills
Basic understanding of animal nutrition principles.
Knowledge of feed ingredients, raw materials and feed additives.
Understanding of feed manufacturing and feed mill processes.
Ability to interpret nutritional, laboratory and production data.
Computer literacy, particularly Microsoft Excel.
Exposure to feed formulation software is advantageous.
Understanding of quality assurance and feed safety standards.
Ability to compile and maintain accurate technical records and reports.
Personal Competencies
Strong attention to detail and numerical accuracy.
Good communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work collaboratively with different teams.
Proactive attitude and willingness to learn.
Good organisational and planning skills.
Ability to prioritise tasks and work under pressure.
Strong problem-solving abilities.
Customer-focused approach.
Commitment to continuous improvement.