This job was posted by https://illinoisjoblink.illinois.gov : For more
information, please see:
https://illinoisjoblink.illinois.gov/jobs/11510812 Crops: Peaches,
Apples, Strawberries, Pumpkins, Blackberries, Christmas Trees, Tomatoes,
Sweet Corn, Squash, Peppers, Kale, Onions, Zucchini, Gourds, Garlic,
Cucumbers and Beets.
Worker must possess the physical strength and endurance (ability to
continue or last) to repeat the harvest process though out the workday,
working quickly and skillfully to perform activities assigned during
that activity. Workers must work at a sustained (continuing for an
extended period of time without interruption), vigorous pace (quick and
steady) and make bona fide efforts (made in earnest intent) to work
efficiently (performing or functions in the best possible manner with
the least waste of time and effort) and consistently (same way for a
long time) that are reasonable under the climatic and other working
conditions, Workers may not leave trash, or other discarded items in
work areas or vehicles but must dispose of such items in provided
receptacles. Workers must wash hands with soap and water after all
bathroom and meal breaks. Allergies to varieties of ragweed, goldenrod,
insecticides, related agricultural chemicals, etc., may affect workers
ability to perform the work described herein.
Workers will plant, cultivate, and harvest crops named in this job
order. Workers may be responsible for preparation of field beds,
assisting in installation of drip irrigation and black plastic. Workers
will thin and prune fruit trees, as needed according to supervisors
instructions. Workers will train black berry vines to ensure maximum
growth.
Blackberries:
Workers will plant, cultivate, and harvest blackberries. Workers will
remove weeds from around the plants and from the row middles. Workers
will bend and stoop to pick berries according to size, color, shape and
degree of maturity and place into field containers. Workers will be
expected to pick fully ripe berries, discard any deformed, decayed, or
undersized berries according to supervisors instructions. Also, workers
must carefully remove any undesirable berries from plant that would
later cause fungi to attack the plant. Workers may carry 1/2 full
container weighing approximately twelve (12) lbs. and empty into field
bin or load onto trailer. Workers must not completely fill their
1-gallon bucket full as it will cause bruising to the berries. When 1/2
full, carried to end of rows at designated truck-loading place. Then the
buckets of berries will be inspected for quality and loaded for
transportation to roadside market. Depending on market demand, workers
may also be required to pick berries in cups and/or flats. Blackberries
harvested specifically for sale at a roadside stand as fresh market
specialty basket containers must be field graded. For berries harvested
for sale at roadside stands, extra care must be used to ensure that each
blackberry is undamaged and perfect. All berries must be handled
carefully to prevent bruises or fingernail cuts. Pickers will take
extreme care not to damage the delicate berries. Quality and workmanship
is of the utmost importance. Pre-harvest activities for berries may
include weeding and transplanting. Workers may be required to perform
other tasks maintenance activities in the blackberry operation.
Pre-harvest activities for may include staking, tying, transplanting,
and pruning.