Field Workers

Job description

Field Workers, (Harvest) Mini Watermelon and Regular Watermelon, (Conventional & Organic) Melon Harvest (Conventional & Organic), and Agricultural Equipment Operator.

Mini Watermelon and Melon: Field harvest workers must be able to walk in uneven rows, and identifying ripened fruit thru various techniques, such as color, striping, shape as directed by Supervisors. The worker would then use a knife to cut ripe melons off the vine. Workers then place the fruit on packing machine while walking on uneven rows through the fields. Workers on top of the packing machine will then identify size, and pack in a box, bag, tote, or bin. Workers will construct containers, whether boxes, baskets, or bins. Workers will then place fruit in the container, and then label each fruit with a sticker that identifies the commodity. After fruit is stickered, a divider will be placed inside boxes. Boxes sized will then either be stacked on pallets on a field trailer, or put into a bin, and marked according by size and information pertaining to the crew and location.

Regular Seedless Watermelon: Field harvest workers must be able to walk in uneven rows, and identify ripe fruit, and use a knife to cut ripe watermelons off the vine. Worker will then move fruit into furrow/row. Worker will perform bulk loading by forming part of an assembly line, in which the first worker bends down picks up the watermelon and it is passed on to consecutive workers by passing, catching, lifting, until it reaches the worker on the trailer. Workers on the trailer then load the fruit into bulk containers, which are transported to a packing site. Workers must have the required physical strength and endurance to repeat the process rapidly and skillfully involved in this type of work. Workers will perform prolonged walking, bending, stooping. reaching, pushing, pulling, lifting, and carrying 0-60 lbs. The worker must be able to work outside for 6-8 hours a day in hot conditions, with temperatures reaching into the 100-degree range.

Agricultural Equipment Operators: are responsible for set up, maintaining, inspecting equipment prior to start of day. Workers will assist in preparing harvest machine for immediate field operation, or movement to a new location. Directing tractor/machine through the field, pulling loaded trailers out. They are also responsible for set up of the machines for the following day, such as cartons, fuel for the tractor, and general service of the equipment being used. Workers are required to have basic knowledge of driving a tractor/machine, must pass tractor/machine safety training and demonstrate ability to operate tractor/machine in a safe manner. Workers may occasionally and/or sporadically perform duties associated with and directly related to the primary duties. Such work will be temporary and unsubstantial agricultural labor.

Special Requirements

Must have 1-month work experience working in Mini Watermelon, Regular Watermelon, and/or Melon harvest as defined in this application. Written verification of experience is required. Specific requirements include lifting to 60 pounds frequently and able to use hand tools, including cutting knives. Must be able to work under conditions where skin and clothing become heavily soiled with mud, water, grease, etc. Must be able to work outdoors in inclement weather conditions, including rain, cold, high winds, etc. Work involves frequent bending and working in bent or stooped positions. Must be able to walk and stand up extensively. Employee must be able to physically wear OSHA authorized safety PPE. No smoking, alcohol, firearms in field or housing.