Junior Nutritionist - Qpro Feeds, Bethlehem

The VKB Group is a modern, dynamic and leading agricultural enterprise that has for the past 100 years, constantly focused on progressively managing solutions for the changing and various needs of agricultural producers and related stakeholders. Its head office is in Reitz, approximately 200km south of Johannesburg. The VKB Group as a top agricultural company, proudly boasts an extended network of industries that manages as many as possible of the commodities that are produced within its service region. Job Description The Junior Nutritionist is responsible for supporting the formulation, quality, and nutritional management of animal feed products to ensure optimal animal performance, cost effectiveness, legal compliance, and customer satisfaction. The role assists with feed formulations, raw material evaluations, quality monitoring, technical support, and continuous improvement initiatives within the feed mill operation. Requirements BSc Degree or Diploma in Animal Science, Animal Nutrition, Agricultural Science, or related field. 1 - 3 years' experience in animal nutrition or feed manufacturing environment preferred. Exposure to feed formulation systems and feed mill operations will be advantageous. Duties & Responsibilities Support the maintenance and updating of feed formulations on formulation software. Monitor nutritional specifications to ensure feed consistency and performance. Assist in evaluating alternative raw materials and feed additives for cost savings and nutritional value. Support least-cost formulation processes while maintaining product quality standards. Assist with feed trials and performance monitoring where required. Monitor raw material quality and nutritional parameters. Assist with the interpretation of laboratory results and nutritional analyses. Support quality assurance processes to ensure compliance with internal standards and industry regulations. Work closely with Quality Control personnel regarding moisture levels, contamination risks, nutrient deviations, and product consistency. Investigate quality-related deviations and assist with corrective actions. Support the management of rework materials and ingredient utilization. Liaise with production personnel to ensure correct feed manufacturing according to formulation specifications. Assist production teams with technical queries related to feed formulations and ingredient usage. Monitor batching accuracy and adherence to formulation instructions. Assist in managing formulation updates during raw material shortages or operational constraints. Participate in feed mill troubleshooting relating to pellet quality, mixing consistency, and feed performance. Ensure compliance with company policies, feed safety standards, and relevant industry regulations including Animal Feed Manufacturers Association (AFMA) requirements where applicable. Maintain accurate formulation records, nutritional data, and technical documentation. Assist with technical reporting and data analysis. Support stock management initiatives related to raw materials and additives. Participate in audits and continuous improvement initiatives. Provide basic technical support to sales teams and customers regarding feed products and feeding programs. Assist in resolving customer complaints related to feed quality or animal performance. Support on-farm investigations and technical visits where required. Knowledge & Skills Basic understanding of animal nutrition principles. Knowledge of feed ingredients and raw materials. Understanding of feed manufacturing processes. Computer literacy, including Microsoft Excel and formulation software. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Good communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced production environment. Attention to detail and numerical accuracy. Closing Date 29 May 2026