Field Workers

Job description

Strawberry Machine Harvest Worker: Strawberry Machine Harvest Workers will pick, sort and package strawberries in the field on the farm for fresh market and freezing/juicing. Workers will distinguish quality and ripeness, pick and place in tray/packing containers in the field on the farm. Pickers will work on a strawberry picker machine to aid harvest. Workers will walk in 13 inch dirt rows and bend over to pick strawberries with hands, place the strawberries in a box and stack full boxes on the machine floor. The top of machine carries the empty boxes. Machine Operator is responsible for the efficient operation of designated production equipment (Machine). Machine Operator makes sure there are enough empty boxes (flats) on the machine and belt.

Irrigation: Workers will unload sprinkler pipe from trailer and set up irrigation system, check and unplug sprinkler birds to ensure uniform irrigation, move sprinkler pipe multiple times in conjunction with other operations until crop is harvested, load sprinkler pipe onto trailer, install drip hose and set up drip tape system, repair in-field drip hose leaks, and remove drip tape at harvest. Other duties may include welding or splicing of drip tape, stacking of irrigation pipe, cleaning, maintaining, and repairing of sprinkler pipe and accessories, shovel and other work assigned by the supervisor.

Bus and CalVan Driver Specifications:

1. Driver may drive over the road in passenger vans or buses with a GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) capacity of more than 26,000 pounds.
2. Driver will drive designated vans or buses to transport harvest crew workers to and from housing and worksite locations.
3. Driver will be responsible for filling bus or van with fuel and keeping vehicle clean.
4. Driver will be required to complete and process periodic driving reports as required by state laws.
5. Driver will be required to follow all California traffic laws and if applicable, vanpool rules.
6. Drivers must possess a valid authorized driver’s license and must be able to pass DOT (Department of Transportation) recognized medical exam and fulfill all other DOT requirements.
7. The employee will be responsible for the cost of the driver’s license. CalVans performs the medical exam at no cost to the employee or employer. The employer will be responsible for the cost of the registration as an FLCE driver (if any).

Drivers are compensated for these activities.

See Addendum C.

Special Requirements

One-month experience cutting lettuce, broccoli, and/or strawberry harvest is required. Must have use of both hands and be able to use a lettuce harvest knife and a hand knife. 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, illegal drugs, alcohol, or weapon of any sort in the field or residential housing. Workers must be able to communicate in English or Spanish. Workers must be able to listen, understand and follow instructions of company supervisors and managers.

See addendum C.