Field Worker (Harvest) and Ag Equipment Operator

Job ID: 7528357

Responsibilities

• Mini Watermelon and Melon Harvest (Conventional & Organic):
  • Walk in uneven rows to identify ripened fruit using color, striping, and shape as directed by supervisors.
  • Use a knife to cut ripe melons off the vine.
  • Place fruit on a packing machine while walking through uneven fields.
  • Identify fruit size and pack into boxes, bags, totes, or bins.
  • Construct containers (boxes, baskets, or bins).
  • Label each fruit with a sticker identifying the commodity.
  • Place dividers inside boxes, stack on pallets or in bins, and mark by size, crew, and location.
• Mixed Melon Bulk Harvest:
  • Walk in uneven rows to identify ripened fruit using color, striping, and shape as directed by supervisors.
  • Use a knife to cut ripe melons off the vine and place them in rows for pickup.
  • Place fruit on a harvesting conveyor belt for sorting into bulk trailers or bins.
• Shed Labor:
  • Unload melons from containers or bins onto a packing line conveyor belt.
  • Pack pre-sorted melons into containers, apply stickers, stack product, and strap containers.
  • Perform traceability and receiving tagging.
  • Set up cartons and bins, and maintain sanitation in the shed.
  • Clean, sanitize, and organize the work area at the end of each shift.
• General Labor:
  • Weed using long-handled hoes, cut runners, thin plants, and perform ranch maintenance.
  • Pull plastic, drip tape, and clean vegetative growth on plant beds.
  • Occasionally clean harvest equipment, work areas, and assist with equipment movement.
• Agricultural Equipment Operators:
  • Set up, maintain, and inspect equipment prior to daily use.
  • Prepare harvest machines for field operation or relocation.
  • Direct tractors/machines through fields and pull loaded trailers.
  • Set up machines for the following day (e.g., cartons, fuel, general service).
  • Occasionally clean fields, pick up trash, and assist with equipment turns.

Requirements

• Able-bodied individuals capable of lifting up to 60 lbs., pulling, pushing, and walking on uneven ground all day.
• Good eyesight for plant identification and precision cutting.
• Ability to work in heat, cold, and outdoor conditions with appropriate clothing and hygiene.
• Follow instructions and use safety equipment correctly.
• Minimum of 1 month of work experience with produce harvest, including use of hand tools (knives, shears, hoes).
• Must not be color blind (ability to distinguish crop colors is required).
• Frequent lifting of up to 50 pounds.
• For equipment operators: Basic knowledge of tractor/machine operation, must pass safety training, and demonstrate safe operation.

Additional Information

In the event of a work-related injury, the company will provide a temporary work assignment aligned with physician-approved restrictions. This assignment is not permanent and will accommodate recovery needs.

All work complies with 8 Cal. Code Regulations Section 3437 and 3456(b-c) for weeding tasks.