Animal Scientist - VKB Agriculture, Head Office Reitz at VKB Group

Job Description

The VKB Group is looking to employ an Animal Scientist that will focus on the following disciplines: overall health and physiology, genetics and breeding, animal nutrition and overall management of feeding (rations, fodder flow planning, formulation of feeding schedules and rotations), assisting VKB Clients (farmers) with scientific advice and plans to aid in overall increase in animal production and welfare.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Animal Science (with Pasture Science, Animal Production or equivalent)
• Registration/ affiliation with SACNASP will serve as recommendation.
• Willing to travel regularly to farmers/ clients.
• Proven knowledge of Animal Production, animal nutrition, breeding and reproduction physiology
• Ability to collect and interpret data accurately.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Animal Scientist will play a crucial role in assisting VKB Farmers/ clients with the following:

Animal Nutrition

• Formulation and balancing of rations (Custom mixes/ prescriptions).
• Composition of additives according to livestock and area (salt blocks/ vitamins etc.).
• Overall utilisation of raw materials and pastures to increase production efficiency of livestock.
• Feed/fodder flow advice and proposals.

Breeding

• Complete herd evaluation and breeding program planning.
• Improving and conserving the genetics of livestock.
• Selection of male- and female animals to optimise breeding.

Animal Physiology

• Overall improvement of reproduction rates in livestock.
• Planning of calf- and reproductive seasons.
• Overall management of fertility programme of livestock.

Overall Management

• Engage with farmers to compile a holistic management plan for their farm; together with Agronomists, Agriculturalists and other specialists.
• Training of farmers/ employees for the overall effective management of livestock & crops for optimal production and efficiencies

Skills

• Continuous learning mindset.
• Excellent communication and administrative skills.
• Professional attitude and appearance.
• Ability to be resourceful and proactive when issues arise.
• Multitasking and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks.
• Accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good reporting skills.
• Customer focus.
• Well organized.