Job Roles
When it comes to working in the Okanagan’s orchards and vineyards,
there are a variety of job opportunities to be found throughout the year,
not just during the harvest season.
Job Roles
Depending on the season and region, you could be:
- Pruning fruit trees and grapevines
- Assisting with summer pruning, planting vegetables, or thinning fruit
- Maintaining crops
- Harvesting fruit, vegetables, or wine grapes
- Packing and sorting produce
Please note that schedules may vary due to weather conditions.
Roles
There are a variety of roles available throughout the year at different vineyards and orchards. Depending on your availability and interest, you could find work year-round.
Harvest & Field Roles
Fruit Picker
Hand-picks ripe fruit, or wine grapes according to quality standards. Requires physical endurance and attention to detail.
Field Packer
Sorts and packs harvested fruit or grapes directly in the orchard or vineyard.
Crop Thinner
Removes excess fruit or grape clusters to improve quality and yield.
Pruner
Trims fruit trees and grapevines during the off-season to encourage healthy growth.
Farm Supervisor
Oversee and coordinate workers to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely.
Packing & Processing Roles
Packhouse Worker
Sort, grade, and pack fruit and vegetables for market distribution.
Quality Control Inspector
Ensure produce meets size, color, and quality standards.
Forklift Operator
Move and organize bins of harvested fruit in packing houses. Requires certification.
Farm & Vineyard Maintenance
General Farm Labourer
Perform various tasks such as irrigation maintenance, weed control, and orchard upkeep.
Irrigation Technician
Install and maintain irrigation systems to ensure proper crop hydration.
Pest Control Assistant
Monitor and manage pest levels using approved methods.
Equipment & Machinery Roles
Tractor Operator
Operate tractors and other machinery for spraying, harvesting, or maintenance tasks.
Spray Technician
Apply fertilizers and pesticides safely, following industry regulations. Certification may be required for this role.
Office & Sales Roles
Farm Administrator
Manage records, payroll, and farm operations logistics.
Marketing & Sales Representative
Promote and sell farm products to local and international markets.
Professional Roles
Winemaker
Makes wine from grapes.
Agronomist
Provides expertise in soil science, crop nutrition, and plant health to optimize fruit production.
Viticulturist
Specializes in the cultivation or culture of grapes, especially for winemaking.
This is by no means an exhaustive list of roles within the industry.
There are many other technical, professional, and support positions that contribute to the success of agriculture.