Production Officer – Seed Processing (VKB Group) 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
Experience Level: Associate
Industry: Agriculture
Date Posted: 28 October 2026
Closing Date: 8 November 2026
Company Overview
The VKB Group is an agricultural company that supports farmers and produces farm-fresh food for consumers. Its regional brands include VKB, GWK and NTK.
Through its operations across the agricultural value chain, the group provides services in farming, processing, logistics, storage, handling and distribution.
The VKB Seed Processing Plant in Reitz plays an important role in supplying high-quality, certified seed to agricultural producers across South Africa.
Job Overview
VKB Group is seeking an experienced and technically skilled Production Officer to oversee operations at its Seed Processing Plant in Reitz.
The successful candidate will coordinate and manage seed production activities, from production planning and processing to certification, packaging, stock control and customer delivery.
The role requires a strong understanding of seed production, quality assurance, regulatory compliance and agricultural operations. The successful candidate will also supervise employees, maintain relationships with seed producers and ensure that production targets are achieved while maintaining high-quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
Production Planning and Operations
Coordinate production planning and monitor progress against approved schedules.
Manage seed processing activities, including sieving, treatment, packaging and storage.
Ensure production targets are achieved efficiently and according to required standards.
Identify opportunities to improve production processes and operational efficiency.
Quality Assurance and Compliance
Ensure compliance with VKB policies, SANSOR requirements and ISTA regulations.
Coordinate seed sampling, testing, grading and certification activities.
Maintain high standards of product quality and traceability.
Ensure seed products meet customer expectations and applicable industry standards.
Stock and Inventory Management
Manage inventory and ensure accurate stock records.
Maintain product traceability throughout the production process.
Monitor stock movement and ensure effective storage and handling.
Stakeholder and Customer Relations
Liaise with seed producers regarding production, deliveries and quality requirements.
Build and maintain strong relationships with customers and industry stakeholders.
Support sales and seed distribution activities when required.
Staff and Operational Management
Manage workforce planning, overtime and labour efficiency.
Monitor fleet utilisation and report deviations according to company policies.
Support HR-related activities within the plant.
Train, mentor and coach employees.
Support succession planning and employee development.
Reporting and Administration
Analyse production data and prepare operational reports.
Monitor operational performance and identify areas for improvement.
Stay informed about industry developments, technologies and best practices.
Health and Safety
Ensure compliance with health, safety, risk management and operational standards.
Maintain a safe, organised and compliant processing environment.
Minimum Requirements
Qualifications
Diploma or Degree in Plant Production, Agronomy, Botany, Agriculture or a related field.
Registered Field Inspector with SANSOR, or willingness to obtain certification.
Certified SANSOR Sampler, or willingness to obtain certification.
Valid driver’s licence.
Fumigation knowledge/qualification as specified in the advert.
Additional Advantages
Qualified Seed Analyst.
Grain Grader qualification.
Essential Experience
3–5 years’ 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 engagement, sales or agricultural marketing.
Experience supervising or leading teams in an agricultural processing environment.
Advanced Microsoft Excel proficiency.
Required Skills and Competencies
Candidates should demonstrate the following:
Seed certification and quality assurance knowledge.
Production planning and scheduling.
Inventory and stock control.
Data analysis and reporting.
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
SANSOR system proficiency.
Knowledge of seed conditioners and seed sieves.
Agricultural product knowledge.
Strong planning and organisational skills.
Problem-solving and analytical thinking.
Leadership and people management.
Attention to detail and sound decision-making.
Accountability and ownership.
Customer service and relationship-building skills.
Quality orientation and continuous improvement.
Adaptability and resilience.
Ability to interpret regulations and compliance requirements.
Coaching and mentoring abilities.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Fluency in Afrikaans and English.
Salary and Benefits
The exact salary and remuneration package are not specified in the advertisement.
VKB Group highlights the following opportunities:
Exposure to a specialised seed production environment.
Continuous learning and professional development.
Opportunities to contribute to South African agriculture and food security.
The opportunity to build relationships with producers, customers and industry stakeholders.
A collaborative working environment focused on innovation, accountability and teamwork.