Artisan Assistant – VKB Engineering Services (Reitz, Free State)
Company: VKB Group
Division: VKB Graan Dienste (Edms.) Bpk.
Business Unit: Engineering Services
Job Type: Permanent
Industry: Agriculture / Engineering
Job Level: Entry Level
Location: Reitz, Free State, South Africa
Posted Date: 07 January 2026
Closing Date: 19 January 2026
Job Overview
VKB Agriculture (Pty) Ltd is a well-established and forward-thinking agricultural organisation operating primarily in the North Eastern Free State, with extended interests in Limpopo. VKB is committed to modern, sustainable business practices and offers employees the opportunity to grow their careers within a professional corporate environment while working in the countryside.
VKB Engineering Services is currently seeking a dedicated and hardworking Artisan Assistant to support qualified Artisans with maintenance, inspection, and repair work at various VKB silo facilities. This is a hands-on technical role, ideal for individuals eager to gain practical experience in mechanical and electrical engineering within the agricultural sector.
The position requires physical fitness, strong technical aptitude, and willingness to travel between silo sites.
Key Responsibilities and Duties
• Assist qualified Artisans with mechanical, electrical, and general maintenance work across VKB silo facilities
• Perform basic electrical tasks under supervision, including the use of hand tools, power tools, and testing equipment
• Support boilermaking and fabrication activities, including cutting, grinding, fitting, and basic welding (where trained)
• Assist with the assembly, fitting, and installation of mechanical components and equipment
• Participate in preventative maintenance on silos and related infrastructure
• Conduct equipment and structure inspections, including chutes, valves, cables, and mechanical systems
• Support basic repairs and breakdown maintenance under supervision
• Clean and maintain electrical cables and equipment during routine maintenance
• Ensure strict compliance with health and safety regulations, job cards, and maintenance procedures
• Maintain a clean, organised, and safe working environment at all times
• Work closely with maintenance teams and site personnel during installations and repairs
• Travel with Artisans to multiple silo sites for routine maintenance and emergency work
• Deliver high-quality workmanship in a neat, professional manner
• Willingness to undergo further technical training and development towards formal qualification
• Must be medically fit and comfortable working at extreme heights (up to 60 metres) and in confined spaces
Minimum Requirements
• Grade 12 / NQF Level 4 qualification
• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude (experience in both fields is essential)
• Proven troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Ability to use basic hand and power tools (grinders, drills, spanners, test meters, etc.)
• Physically fit and able to work at heights and in confined spaces (medical fitness certificate required)
• Strong commitment to workplace safety and compliance
• Willingness to learn new skills such as fitting, welding, cutting, and fabrication
• Valid driver’s licence (advantageous)
• Willingness to travel frequently between different silo sites
• Valid trade certificate will be advantageous
• Relevant technical knowledge and practical experience will be an added advantage
Skills and Competencies
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong work ethic and ability to perform under high-pressure environments
• Practical, hands-on approach with eagerness to learn
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• High level of responsibility, reliability, and attention to detail
• Basic understanding of mechanical, electrical, and general maintenance work
Why Join VKB Group?
• Gain valuable engineering and maintenance experience in the agricultural industry
• Opportunity to grow within a stable, reputable organisation
• Work in a professional yet rural environment with exposure to large-scale silo operations
• Ongoing training and development opportunities
How To Apply?



