Orchard Worker (Pruning and Thinning)

Crops do not wait, and a deciduous fruit orchard near Epping needs extra hands this season. If you learn fast and don't mind being shown things twice, you'll settle in within a few weeks.

The work is in Epping, Western Cape, so you'll need a reliable way to get there every day.

• Tie up tomato and pepper plants in tunnels
• Fill crates or bins and carry them to the collection point
• Prune and thin fruit trees and vines to the farm's method
• Plant seedlings in rows at the spacing shown
• Weed beds by hand or with a hoe
• Follow the re-entry times after spraying, as the signs show
• Wash hands and use the field toilets for food safety

• Valid ID or work permit
• Careful with fruit, since bruised fruit is rejected
• Follows farm hygiene and safety rules
• Physically fit for bending, lifting and climbing ladders
• Willing to start at sunrise
• Able to work outdoors in heat, cold and rain

• Pruning experience on vines or fruit trees
• Previous harvest or picking experience

• Farm transport from nearby towns
• Seasonal accommodation on some farms
• Piece-rate bonus on top of daily wage

• Have your bank details ready. Most farms pay into a bank account and will not start you without it.
• If you have picked before, say which crop and how many seasons. Farms rehire experienced pickers first.