Farmworkers & Laborers, Crop

Work description

Workers will perform assigned duties as instructed by their supervisor. The employer will provide the tools necessary to perform the described job duties at no charge to the worker. Workers will perform general tasks associated with field/orchard production and maintenance to include but not limited to: pruning trees, and the cleaning and maintenance of fields. Use of hand tools including but not limited to: pruners, shovels, hoes, pitchforks, hand clippers/loppers, and hand saws. Use of other tools including but not limited to: chainsaws and pole saws, and ladders. Use/handle ladders up to 20 feet in length and weighing up to 60 pounds. Must be able to maneuver ladders on steep and uneven terrain. Tree training: hoeing, tree painting, tie/position trees and limbs together and to trellises using string, tape, wire, or other fasteners and supports. Pruning: hand pruning based on fruit variety with the use of manual and mechanized pruning tools and equipment. Identify and remove stubs and broken branches, downward growing branches, branches rubbing against each other, shaded interior branches, dead wood, and shoot-suckers. Workers may assist with orchard maintenance and repairs, root and rock pickup. Workers will pile all tree trimmings (brush) in neat rows using provided pitchforks. Employer will provide training and guidance on pruning methods and techniques. All while taking care to prevent damaging trees. Work is done in the field for long periods of time. Workers must work on their feet in bent positions for long periods of time. Work requires repetitive movements and extensive walking. Work will be performed in northern winter climates and is required in fields when plants are wet with dew and rain, and may be required during light rain, snow, moderate winds, direct sun, and freezing temperatures.

View the official U.S. Department of Labor source

Last updated: October 7, 2026