Orchard Worker (Pruning and Thinning)

Harvest time on a citrus farm near Upington means early mornings, full crates and paid overtime. Good for someone who wants to build a solid track record they can put on their CV.

This post is Upington-based, with most of your time spent at a citrus farm. There's a probation period of three months before the contract is confirmed.

• Weed beds by hand or with a hoe
• Wash hands and use the field toilets for food safety
• Follow the re-entry times after spraying, as the signs show
• Prune and thin fruit trees and vines to the farm's method
• Keep your picking card or tag count for daily pay

• Willing to start at sunrise
• Able to work outdoors in heat, cold and rain
• Valid ID or work permit
• Available for the full harvest season
• Physically fit for bending, lifting and climbing ladders

• Tractor or quad bike experience
• Previous harvest or picking experience
• Living on or near the farm

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

• Farms hire before the season starts, so apply four to six weeks early. Late arrivals often find the teams already full.
• Have your bank details ready. Most farms pay into a bank account and will not start you without it.