Overview

A harvester/picker is responsible for the care and harvesting of produce such as fruits and vegetables on farms. They will harvest produce based on size, weight and ripeness and transfer it to containers or trays for further processing. A harvester/picker may also be responsible for tending to crops, which requires a high degree of care which could include planting, weeding and pruning.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Grade a variety grain types such as wheat, oil seeds and pulses as they are delivered to grain elevators
• Log, organize, store, distribute and dispose incoming grain samples after they are inspected
• Calibrate and check laboratory scales
• Operate, maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment (moisture meters, scales, carter dockage testers, protein testers, ELISA readers)
• Ensure laboratory is kept clean, including dusting and sweeping
• Prepare samples for outside testing
• Conduct total grain inventory audits of weight and grade
• Maintain and order basic laboratory supplies (gloves, dust masks, filter papers etc.)
• Check grain handling equipment and report any deficiencies or concerns
• Conduct off-site grading and sampling duties
• Ensure that all grain sampling follows the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS)
• Prepare samples for the lab for quality testing
• Assist senior staff to solve day-to-day production and process problems
• Issue grading reports to deliveries
• Review analytical data and report findings to the grain elevator staff
• Follow safe work practices and regulations
• Assist in preparing on-site final analysis reports

What education and training is required?

No formal education is required to become a fruit picker.

To pursue a career as a Harvester/Picker :

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, agricultural mechanics, business, personal finance, plant science, biology and animal science.

Where can I work?

Harvesters/pickers work on farms and for agricultural businesses.

Future Job Market / Outlook

Good

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• American Farm Bureau Federation
• National Farmers Organization
• U.S. Custom Harvesters
• State and regional harvester organizations