Field Workers

Job description

Little Gems and Tuscan Heads are harvested in the field. Cut, bag, pack, and load fresh lettuce in the field. Cutting is done by kneeling on beds next to a machine or without a machine. Using a harvesting hand knife and bending at the waist, the employee cuts the head from the roots and trims the outer leaves from the head to prepare it to be packed into a carton or tote. The process is repeated. Worker is responsible for cleaning of equipment and maintenance of yard.

Field worker to harvest romaine & romaine hearts. Cut, core, bag, pack, and load fresh lettuce in the field. Cutting is done on harvesting machine by using hands and cutting/coring knife. Using a harvesting hand knife and bending at the waist, the employee cuts the head from the roots and trims the outer leaves from the head to prepare it to be packed into a carton, tote or bulk bin. The process is repeated. Worker is responsible for cleaning of equipment and maintenance of yard.

Machine set up includes: Check machine for water and diesel; Put sticker on bags; Supply cartons for the day and put on the machine; Open or close machine; Put machine where crew will start; Move trailer. Move Machine. Drive Tractor.

Crew Leaders Under the direction of the First-Line Supervisor:
Harvesting crew leader will arrive to work site with the crew or before crew. Will keep accurate records of employee hours worked, ranch and lot. Receives from supervisor daily harvesting needs. Assign duties such as harvesting of crops, products or equipment maintenance. Report all issues or concerns to the supervisor. Occasionally, will work with crew doing regular harvesting job. Provide the necessary materials to personnel. Conduct Pre-Inspection reports when necessary and when requested. Reports any observed mechanical problems of machine or equipment to supervisor. Prepare necessary amount of materials needed for the day, i.e. cartons/supplies. When working or moving machines always be observant of safety hazards, obstacles and surroundings.

This is not a supervisory position and this position does not require making personnel decisions or developing compliance or safety protocols. Such standards are developed by Supervisors and managers. Crew Leaders will observe workers to ensure safety and compliance standards are maintained and will report issues or problems to Supervisors.

Special Requirements

Minimum Job Qualifications:

1 month of harvest experience in any of the commodities listed. Specific requirements include lifting up 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 frequent bending and working in bent or stooped positions. Must be able to walk and stand up extensively. No smoking, alcohol, firearms in the field or residential housing.

Work is performed in open fields and may involve exposure to mud, dust, wind, heat, cold, and other natural elements. Temperatures can range from 30 degrees Fahrenheit to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the period of employment. Workers should come prepared with appropriate clothing and footwear for the environmental and working conditions described.