Field Worker

Job description

Commodity for Harvest: Wine Grapes

Duties vary depending on the growing season:

March - July
• Prune dormant cane, using pruning shears.
• Reposition support wires, for vines, by removing clips; cutting and moving wires, and securing in new positions.
• Tie vines to lead wires on trellises, using florist tape, in order to position and/or train new growth.
• Remove shoots and excess fruit, by hand, to reduce crop yield and enhance quality.
• Remove lowest leaves, by hand, from vertical shoots to enhance exposure to direct sunlight.
• Fertilize grape vines

August - December
• Harvest grapes by hand or hand shears.

Special Requirements

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.