Becoming a fruit picker is an excellent way for anyone looking for seasonal work to make some extra money. It can also be a great way to experience the outdoors and stay active.
But what skills do you need to become a fruit picker?
In this guide, I’ll break down the skills you’ll need and the steps you should take to become a fruit picker. Plus, I also mentioned the latest jobs for fruit pickers. Make sure you check them.
What is a Fruit Picker?
A fruit picker is responsible for harvesting fruits from trees and shrubs. The job requires strength and stamina as it involves bending over for long periods and often working in hot weather conditions. It’s a physically demanding job that offers few breaks throughout the day.
In addition to physically harvesting fruits, a fruit picker may be responsible for other tasks such as sorting, packing, weighing, loading onto trucks or wagons, or even transporting them to the market.
Some fruit pickers may also be responsible for maintaining the orchard land by pruning branches or treating trees with pesticides.
Fruit picker Requirements – How to Become a Fruit Picker?
Physical Fitness
One of the essential qualities of successful fruit pickers is physical fitness. As a fruit picker, you will be on your feet all day and may be required to lift heavy objects or climb ladders. Make sure you’re able to handle these demands before applying for any jobs.
Organization & Attention To Detail
Fruit picking requires good organizational skills and attention to detail. You should have an eye for spotting ripe fruits that are ready for picking and know how to organize them to maximize efficiency properly.
Additionally, there may be guidelines or regulations regarding the size, shape, or number of fruits that must be followed when selecting fruit for harvest.
Communication Skills
As with any job, good communication skills are essential when working as a fruit picker. You’ll need to be able to communicate effectively with your supervisor regarding any issues or concerns that arise throughout the day.
Additionally, you may need to interact with customers if you are responsible for delivering products directly from the farm or market stand where you work at.
How Much Does a Fruit Picker Earn?
The salary of a fruit picker will vary depending on where they work and their experience level. On average, most fruit pickers can expect to earn between $10-$17 an hour, depending on their duties.
However, experienced or specialized fruit pickers can earn up to $20 an hour in some cases. Additionally, some employers offer bonuses or incentives based on performance which could add to overall earnings.
What is the Education Requirement for a Fruit Picker?
Fruit pickers are typically required to have a high school diploma or its equivalent. Some employers may also require their fruit pickers to possess specialized certifications, such as the Produce Safety Allergen Training certification, or may provide additional training on food safety and handling.
Besides, because some fruits harvested require climbing trees or using ladders, physical strength and stamina are essential for this job.
A List Fruit Picker Jobs – Latest Jobs
1. Production Worker 2/ Utility Person
Job details
- Salary: Up to $25 an hour
- Job Type: Part-time
Job Description
We are seeking a versatile Production Worker/Utility Person to join our team. The primary responsibility is to purchase and transport fruits and vegetables from the farmer’s market to our location on Monday and Friday mornings.
The ideal candidate must be detail-oriented and quality-focused. A vehicle will be provided. Additionally, the second position involves working in a small team to receive, check, and package a variety of fresh farm ingredients. Attention to detail, teamwork and a love for food are a must.
No prior experience is required, and the pay is $25/hour. The schedule is an 8-hour shift, and the work location is in Tampa, FL, 33610.
Reliable commuting or the willingness to relocate is required. As a special perk, at the end of each Monday, employees may take home leftover ingredients such as vegetables, fruits, meats, cheeses, and dairy products.
2. Farm Stand Clerk
Job Details
- Salary: From $16 an hour
- Job Type: Full-time & Part-time
Job Description
We are seeking a dynamic and reliable Farm Stand Clerk to join our team. The ideal candidate must possess excellent customer service skills and a positive attitude.
The job duties include packing and stocking fruits, cashiering, cleaning, and answering phone calls. The start dates are from January to early February. If hired full-time after completing the two-week paid training, a hiring bonus may be offered.
The position is available as full-time, part-time, or seasonal. The pay rate is $16.00 per hour. The shifts include day, evening, and morning shifts, and the candidate must be available to work every weekend, Monday to Friday, and be available on weekends.
A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred, and fluency in English and Spanish is a plus.
3. Warehouse Picker/Packer
Job Details
- Salary: $18.00 Per Hour
- Shift Time: 2nd Shift
Job Description
We are seeking a Warehouse Picker/Packer to join our team at our family-owned and operated wholesale produce company located in Highland, NY. We provide restaurants, schools, businesses, and institutions with fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, meats, and other sundries.
The ideal candidate must be reliable, a team player, and possess warehouse experience. The person must be able to operate various pieces of equipment, follow good manufacturing practices, maintain a clean work area, and perform other duties as assigned.
The candidate must have the ability to walk and stand continuously for the assigned shift, lift up to 50 lbs, work designated shifts, and have proper footwear (non-slip work boots with a firm toe are recommended).
The candidate must have a high school diploma or equivalent, have a high degree of accuracy, and pay close attention to detail. Candidates must also have their means of transportation, and warm clothing is recommended as the work environment may be cold.
4. Fruits and Vegetable Packer
Job Details
- Full-Time Shift: 6:30 am to 3:00 pm
- Starting Pay: $14.29/hour
Job Description
Seeking a hardworking individual for a Fruit and Vegetable Packer position at a greenhouse in the agriculture industry. Responsibilities include sorting and weighing produce, packaging products, inspecting for quality, maintaining a clean work area, and adhering to USDA and GAP guidelines.
Qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent, basic math skills, and the ability to perform repetitive motions and lift to 40 lbs.
This fast-paced environment requires working in a team setting, performing repetitive motions, and working in a greenhouse with fluctuating temperatures. Benefits include paid weekly, health insurance, 401K, paid time off, and opportunities for growth and advancement.
5. Warehouse Order Pickers
Job Details
- Earn up to $27.50/hr
- Base Wage: $20.50/hr
- Age Limit: Minimum 18 Years Old
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Warehouse Order Picker to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong willingness to learn and become skilled in the operation of warehouse equipment, with a sense of urgency and attention to detail.
Duties include using equipment to pick and assemble orders, ensuring product quality, labeling pallets, and maintaining a clean warehouse.
Candidates must be able to lift 35-50 lbs consistently, be at least 18 years old, and pass a background check and drug test. We offer a productivity incentive of $1.00-$4.00/hr, a weekend incentive of $3.00/hr, and opportunities for growth and advancement.
Submit your application today and become a part of our dynamic team.
6. Seasonal General Greenhouse Worker
Job Details
- Salary: $16.34 an hour
- Job Type: Full-time & Seasonal
Job Description
Tagawa Greenhouse Ent. is seeking a motivated, entry-level Seasonal General Greenhouse Worker for its North facility in Brighton, CO. The worker will join various teams within the greenhouse to produce high-quality plants for customers.
This temporary, seasonal role offers the opportunity to transition into a full-time, year-round position based on performance. Fluency in Spanish is a plus but not a requirement.
Responsibilities include assisting with the greenhouse ranges, shipping docks, processing, sticking, and movement of products. General Greenhouse Workers will be required to follow the rules and regulations, maintain area cleanliness, and assist with various projects as directed by the Greenhouse Supervisor.
To be considered, candidates must be 17 or older and eligible to work in the US. They must be able to work in various greenhouse conditions, lift and move up to 25 lbs, and have the ability to stand for long periods, along with specific vision abilities.
Communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team are also required. No prior experience is necessary, but factory, repetitive motion, greenhouse, or labor experience is preferred.
The job may include exposure to moving mechanical parts, fumes, and caustic chemicals, so safety procedures must be followed at all times.
Read More:
- Top Jobs Available in COCA COLA – Apply Now
- Trinidad and Tobago Visa Requirements | How To Apply
- Healthcare Jobs With Sponsors in Canada