Entry Harvest Operator

Del Monte Foods; Town of Plover (WI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Attendance bonus

Safety-focused team environment

Job summary

Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. is seeking a Seasonal Harvester Operator to run harvesting equipment and support field operations during the harvest season. The position runs mid-June through October, with a pay range of $18.05–$19.95 per hour, reflecting prior experience with the field team.

The role requires following safety rules, maintaining productivity, and assisting with additional harvest activities as needed. Overtime and weekend work may be required.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must be able to read, write, speak and understand English.
• Previous experience operating harvesters, tractors, or other agricultural equipment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Transport harvesters between fields and work locations following safety rules.
• Support field operations to maintain efficient picking and harvesting performance.
• Unjam harvesters, troubleshoot minor issues, and clean around equipment as needed.
• Monitor harvester performance and report equipment issues or safety concerns.
• Work with field personnel to maintain smooth harvest operations.
• Assist with training new employees and adhering to safety, food safety, and quality policies.

Job description

Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. is a global leader in the production, distribution, and marketing of fresh, value-added, and shelf-stable fruits and vegetables under our Fresh and Foods divisions. Our diverse product portfolio proudly bears the Del Monte brand and also includes prepared fruits and vegetables, juices, beverages, snacks, and desserts-available in over 80 countries worldwide. With operations spanning more than 35 countries, we've proudly been nourishing families for over 135 years.

Our company is committed to maintaining a safe and productive work environment. As a drug free workplace, all candidates selected for hire in our operations, warehouse, quality assurance, transportation and production roles must complete and pass a pre-employment drug test.

Purpose of Position:

Del Monte Foods is the Foods Division of Fresh Del Monte, a global grower, producer and marketer of fresh, value-added, and shelf-stable produce. Del Monte Foods has a powerful portfolio of brands, including the iconic Del Monte, Contadina and S&W.

Del Monte Foods (DMC Foods Inc.), the Foods Division of Fresh Del Monte, is seeking a Seasonal Harvester Operator. The Seasonal Harvester Operator is responsible for operating harvesting equipment to support efficient field operations during the harvest season. This position works closely with field leadership and other harvest employees to maximize harvesting efficiency, maintain equipment safety, and support crop quality. The Seasonal Harvester Operator is expected to follow all company safety rules, maintain productivity standards, and assist with additional harvest activities as needed throughout the season. This seasonal role typically runs from mid-June through October.

Range of pay for this role is dependent on prior experience working with our field team. Pay range is $18.05-$19.95.

Accountabilities:

• Transport harvesters between fields and work locations while following all company and roadway safety requirements.
• Support field operations by maintaining efficient picking and harvesting performance.
• Assist with unjamming harvesters, troubleshooting minor operational issues, and cleaning debris or spilled beans around trucks and harvesters as needed.
• Monitor harvester performance during operation and report equipment issues or safety concerns to leadership.
• Work closely with other harvester operators, drivers, and field personnel to maintain smooth harvest operations.
• Assist with training and supporting new employees as requested.
• Follow all company policies related to safety, food safety, quality, environmental compliance, and employee conduct.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in and around harvesting equipment.
• Support additional field department duties and seasonal activities as assigned.
• Work overtime, weekends, and varying schedules as needed based on harvest demands and weather conditions.

Incentives:

• The Harvest Operator position may qualify for an Attendance Bonus by maintaining positive attendance.
• Ability to safely operate harvesters and other farm equipment.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Strong attendance, dependability, and work ethic.
• Ability to work cooperatively with coworkers and supervisors in a team environment.
• Ability to recognize and report unsafe conditions or equipment issues.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to safely climb ladders and enter/exit harvester cabs multiple times throughout the day.
• Ability to walk in uneven outdoor field conditions and varying weather environments.
• Ability to perform physical work, including bending, climbing, lifting, and standing for extended periods of time.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, overtime, weekends, and holidays during harvest season.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• A valid driver's license, preferred
• Previous experience operating harvesters, tractors, or other agricultural equipment.
• Previous experience working in farming, harvesting, field operations, or outdoor labor environments.
• Knowledge of safe equipment operation and preventative maintenance practices.
• Experience training or assisting other employees in a seasonal work environment.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to identify minor equipment issues.
• Equivalent combinations of education, agricultural experience, farm equipment operation, military experience, or related work experience may be considered in place of direct harvester operation experience.
• Must be able to effectively read, write, speak, and understand English in order to perform the essential functions of the position.

***Please note: This position does not qualify for relocation expenses.***

Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. is a global leader in the production, distribution, and marketing of fresh and freshcut fruits and vegetables. Our diverse product portfolio also includes prepared fruits and vegetables, juices, beverages, snacks, and desserts-available in over 80 countries worldwide. With operations spanning more than 35 countries, we've proudly been nourishing families for over 135 years.

We are committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace and are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Fresh Del Monte and its affiliates do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We also participate in E-Verify* where applicable, to ensure employment authorization eligibility. Driven by our core values-Excellence, Care, Passion, Trust, and Creativity-we invite you to explore our career opportunities and join our FRESH team.