Field Workers, Ag Equipment Operators, Calvan Drivers

Job description

Mini Watermelon and Melon: Field harvest workers must be able to walk in uneven rows, and identify ripened fruit through 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 a 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.

Cal Van Driver Specifications: responsible for transporting workers from housing sites and pick-up points to take to work sites and back, processing paperwork, inspections of vehicle fueling of and cleaning of vehicle. The employer assures that the drivers are paid, at a minimum, the AEWR for actual driving time, processing paperwork, cleaning and fueling of vehicle. Employee may drive Cal Van on public roads. To drive a Cal Van, Employees must possess a valid drivers’ license (state issued) and must be able to pass Class B Physical exam and register as an FLCE driver. The employer will be responsible for the cost of the California Driver’s License, Class B Physical Exam, and registration as an FLCE driver (if any). The Driver’s License and FLCE Certificate are job requirements.

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.

Shed Labor: Workers will unload containers onto the packing line conveyer belt, (pitchers), workers designated to pack product will remove watermelons from tables that are pre-sorted and placed packed in containers. Workers will apply stickers, stack product, put lids on and strap product, perform traceability and receiving tagging, set up cartons and bins, and maintain sanitation in the shed. Workers will clean, sanitize, and organize the work area at the end of each shift.

Special Requirements

Must have 1-month work experience with the produce as defined in this application including harvest work. Specific requirements include lifting to 50 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 bending and working in bent or stooped positions. Must be able to walk on uneven ground and stand up extensively. No smoking, alcohol, firearms in field or housing.

The Drivers License and FLCE Certificate are job requirements.

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