120 Berry Picker (Strawberry, Blueberry, Raspberry) In Switzerland

Job Description

We are seeking motivated and careful individuals to join our harvesting team for the upcoming berry season. As a Berry Picker, you will be responsible for hand-picking ripe strawberries, blueberries, and/or raspberries directly into containers. This is a fast-paced, physically demanding role that is crucial to delivering fresh, high-quality berries to market. No prior experience is needed—we provide training. We are looking for people with a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and a keen eye for detail.

Benefits Berry Picker (Strawberry, Blueberry, Raspberry)

• High Earning Potential on Piece-Rate: This is the most significant financial benefit for many. Pickers are paid for the amount they harvest (e.g., per pound, kilo, flat, or bucket).
• Immediate Start & Flexible Duration: Jobs are often available with a quick hiring process. The distinct seasons for each berry (Strawberries in June/July, Raspberries & Blueberries through the summer) allow for short-term commitments or the option to work multiple harvests.
• Overtime OpportunitiesDuring the peak of the harvest, long hours are common, which can lead to higher weekly earnings.
• Meal Allowance: Daily meal during shifts
• Retirement Plans: 401(k) with company matching contributions.
• Free, Fresh, Ultra-Fresh Berries: A beloved and delicious perk. Most farms allow pickers to eat berries while they work and often take home high-quality, sun-ripened fruit that is far superior to anything in a supermarket.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Policies covering injury, illness, or death on the job.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Vacation days, sick leave, and holidays .
• Multicultural Environment: Berry farms are hubs of international workers. You'll meet and work alongside people from all over the world, making it a fantastic cultural exchange.
• Build a Travel Community: It's a great way to connect with fellow travellers, form friendships, and find companions for future adventures across Denmark.

Berry Picker (Strawberry, Blueberry, Raspberry) Responsibilities

• Identify Perfect Ripeness: Accurately select berries based on specific visual and tactile cues for each type
• Use Proper Picking Method: Strawberries: Pinch the stem about an inch above the berry to avoid damaging the fruit or the plant. Blueberries: Gently roll the berry between your thumb and forefinger so it drops into your palm. Only berries that fall off easily are ripe.
• Maintain a Steady Pace: Work efficiently to fill containers consistently, especially when paid on a piece-rate basis.
• In-Field Sorting: Act as the first line of defense for quality. Do not pick or discard: Overripe, mushy, or leaking berries. Underripe, green, or discoloured fruit.
• Handle with Extreme Care: Berries are delicate, especially raspberries and ripe strawberries. Avoid dropping berries into the container from a height.
• Proper Filling: Neatly arrange berries in the provided container (basket, flat, or bucket) to prevent crushing and present a high-quality product.
• Efficient Row Harvesting: Work systematically along your assigned row to ensure all ripe berries are harvested. For strawberries, this often involves moving down the row on your knees or in a bent-over position.
• Bin Placement: Carefully place filled containers in a designated spot for collection, ensuring they are not spilled or left in the sun.
• Follow Supervisor Instructions: Listen carefully to the field supervisor regarding which rows to pick, specific quality standards for the day, and any safety briefings.
• Work Cooperatively: Coordinate with other pickers in adjacent rows to avoid confusion and ensure the entire field is harvested efficiently.
• Clear Communication: Report any issues to the supervisor, such as a high concentration of mold, pest problems, or areas where the fruit quality is poor.
• Adhere to Safety Protocols: Follow all farm safety rules, including staying hydrated, using sun protection, and being aware of your surroundings (e.g., farm machinery, uneven ground).
• Punctuality and Reliability: Arrive on time and maintain consistent attendance. The harvest is time-sensitive, and the crew depends on every member.

Berry Picker (Strawberry, Blueberry, Raspberry) Requirements

• Commercial Driver’s License : CDL Class A: For operating tractor-trailers, combination vehicles from your country of origin .
• Age Requirements: Intrastate (within one state): Typically 18+.
• Legal Right to Work in Denmark: Must be a Denmark citizen, Permanent Resident, or hold a valid open work permit
• Physical Fitness and Mobility: The job is physically intense and requires the ability to Perform repetitive bending, stooping, kneeling, and squatting for strawberry picking.
• Punctuality & Seasonal Availability: Work starts very early in the morning. You must be reliable and able to commit to the seasonal schedule (e.g., the full strawberry season or the blueberry harvest).
• Attention to Detail: Ability to quickly learn and identify ripe fruit based on color and condition, and to spot imperfections.
• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least one year beyond the contract start date.
• Manual Dexterity: Good hand-eye coordination and a gentle touch to pick fruit quickly without crushing it.
• Visa Eligibility: Must be eligible for and obtain any visas required for the Denmark .
• Strong Work Ethic: Must be self-motivated, hardworking, and able to maintain a steady pace throughout the day, especially under piece-rate pay.
• Resilience and Adaptability: Willingness to work in all weather conditions and adapt to different picking techniques for each berry type.
• Clean Criminal Background Check: A police clearance certificate or criminal background check from the country of residence is required for the issuance of a seafarer's documents and visas.
• Drug-Free: Must pass a mandatory pre-employment drug test and are subject to random drug testing throughout their contract.
• Teamwork: Ability to work effectively as part of a diverse crew and follow instructions from a supervisor.
• Safety Conscious: A commitment to following basic safety procedures and being aware of your surroundings in the field.
• Physical Ability: Lift 50+ pounds, secure cargo, and perform pre-trip inspections.
• Independence: Work alone for long periods with minimal supervision.

Note: No formal education qualification required. Training will be provided to successful candidates.