Introduction to the VKB Group

The VKB Group is an agricultural company, providing support to farmers and producing straight-from-the-farm foods for consumers. Apart from the various consumer brands, the VKB Group is also represented by its regional brands: VKB, GWK, and NTK. Our roots are firmly planted in agriculture with farming at our core, continuously growing and evolving throughout the years.

Starting with providing everything needed on the farm to produce food, we now also operate in all areas of the food supply chain: processing, logistics, and national and global market channels.

This “house of brands” we’ve established with the support of our farmer shareholders is the foundation for building the agribusiness of the future.

At VKB, our people live by our values — Humble, Hungry, Smart, Bold, and Team Player — working together to grow food, grow people, and grow the future.

About Free State Oil

Free State Oil (Pty) Ltd (“FSoil”), a subsidiary of the VKB Group, is a leading soybean processor and marketer of soybean products. The company plays a vital role in the agricultural value chain by adding value to locally produced soybeans and supplying high-quality soybean oil and related products to national markets.

At FSoil, we believe in teamwork, integrity, and continuous improvement — providing opportunities for our people to grow, learn, and contribute to sustainable food production in South Africa.

About the Role

The Artisan Assistant (Boilermaking / Welding / Fitting) will support qualified artisans with fabrication, assembly, repair, and maintenance of mechanical equipment and structures. The position requires strong mechanical aptitude, hands-on metalwork experience, and the ability to work safely and efficiently in an industrial environment.

Requirements

• Grade 12 / NQF Level 4 qualification

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in a mechanical or fabrication environment

• Practical experience in boilermaking, welding (arc/MIG/TIG), and fitting is essential

• Experience with grinding, cutting, drilling, and assembly of metal components

• Basic understanding of electrical maintenance will be an advantage

• Valid trade certificate (Boilermaker, Fitter, or Welder) will be an advantage

• Knowledge of safety standards and maintenance procedures in an industrial setting

Skills Required

• Strong technical and mechanical ability

• Ability to read and understand technical drawings (advantageous)

• Skilled in welding, fabrication, and general mechanical repairs

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Problem-solving and fault-finding ability

• Able to work efficiently under pressure and tight deadlines

• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist artisans with fabrication, welding, and fitting of mechanical structures and components.

• Perform cutting, grinding, drilling, and assembly of parts as required.

• Support maintenance and repair work on production equipment.

• Perform basic electrical support tasks under supervision when required.

• Ensure all work complies with health, safety, and quality standards.

• Maintain tools and equipment in good working condition.

• Keep the work area clean, organised, and safe.

• Show a willingness to learn and develop toward a trade qualification.

Other Information

• The company can expire jobs at any time at their own discretion.
• VKB Group and/or its subsidiary companies will use any personal data collected through the job opportunities section of this website for recruitment purposes only and, should your application be successful, for purposes connected with your employment.
• VKB Group is an equal opportunity employer. VKB Group’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process aligned to VKB Group’s Employment Equity & Transformation Strategy. VKB Group actively supports the recruitment of People with Disabilities
• Things to take note of when applying through our Career Portal.
• Use Google Chrome when accessing the portal
• Clear copy of your CV in either PDF or Word
• The CV should not have handwriting on the document
• NB! Only Submit your CV on the Upload CV section of the application form and not a PDF that includes other documents such as ID, Driver’s License and other documents. The application form will make provision for the candidate to upload supporting documents.
• When uploading profile picture, make sure the minimum size uploaded is 300 x 300px