Orchard Worker (Pruning and Thinning) – Entry Level

Harvest time on a deciduous fruit orchard near Thohoyandou means early mornings, full crates and paid overtime. You don't need to be the loudest person in the room, just the one others can count on.

You'll be based at a deciduous fruit orchard in Thohoyandou. Living nearby, or on a taxi route to it, really helps. Start is planned for the beginning of next month.

• Plant seedlings in rows at the spacing shown
• Pick fruit or vegetables at the right ripeness and size, gently
• Weed beds by hand or with a hoe
• Fill crates or bins and carry them to the collection point
• Tie up tomato and pepper plants in tunnels

• Able to work outdoors in heat, cold and rain
• Willing to start at sunrise
• Valid ID or work permit
• Available for the full harvest season
• Careful with fruit, since bruised fruit is rejected
• Follows farm hygiene and safety rules

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

• Chance of a permanent post after good seasons
• Piece-rate bonus on top of daily wage
• Farm transport from nearby towns
• Seasonal accommodation on some farms

• Farms hire before the season starts, so apply four to six weeks early. Late arrivals often find the teams already full.
• If you have picked before, say which crop and how many seasons. Farms rehire experienced pickers first.