General Farm Worker
Jealous Fruits Ltd. — Kelowna, British Columbia
Company Overview
Jealous Fruits Ltd. is a leading sweet cherry producer and marketer based in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada. As a family-owned and controlled company with farming roots in the Okanagan Valley dating back to 1903, Jealous Fruits has grown into one of Canada’s premier cherry operations.
The company manages 1,200 acres of cherry orchards focused on late-season production, delivering extraordinary quality to worldwide markets throughout July and August. Jealous Fruits recently opened a state-of-the-art 140,000 square foot packing facility featuring the latest optical sorting technology, administrative headquarters, and a retail operation.
With a full-time staff of 25 and peak seasonal employment of over 1,000 workers, Jealous Fruits provides staff accommodation for 680 seasonal workers and prides itself on being an excellent employer in the Canadian agricultural sector.
Job Details
General Farm Worker (NOC 8431)
Jealous Fruits Ltd.
Seasonal / Full-Time
Agriculture & Fruit Farming
No Experience Required
On-Site (Orchard & Camp)
$18.25 – $25.00 / hour
$0.325 / lb (Subject to increase)
30–50 hrs/week, Night Shifts
July 25 – August 25, 2026
Job Description
Jealous Fruits Ltd. is seeking dedicated General Farm Workers to join our diverse and incredible picking team for the 2026 cherry harvest season in the beautiful Okanagan Valley. This is a dynamic opportunity to work amidst stunning landscapes while earning competitive wages through a combination of hourly pay and piece-rate bonuses.
As a General Farm Worker, you will be responsible for hand-picking cherries directly from the trees, moving full totes to loading rows, and supporting overall orchard operations. Sorting of cherries is handled at our premium packing plant, allowing pickers to focus on quality, safety, and maximizing daily output.
Due to extremely high daytime temperatures in the Okanagan Valley during harvest season, picking primarily occurs during cooler night temperatures. This approach not only preserves the exceptional quality of our cherries but also protects the health and safety of our workforce.
Note: A strict no-pet policy is enforced at all camps, facilities, and orchards due to food safety regulations.
Key Responsibilities
Hand-pick ripe cherries from trees with attention to quality, ensuring minimal bruising and maximum fruit integrity.
Move full totes of cherries (20 lbs per tote) from picking areas to designated loading rows efficiently and safely.
Work during night shifts and early morning hours to optimize cherry quality and personal safety in cooler temperatures.
Follow all orchard safety protocols, including proper ladder use, ergonomic lifting techniques, and hazard awareness.
Maintain cleanliness and organization in picking areas to comply with food safety and agricultural standards.
Collaborate with crew managers and supervisors to meet daily production targets and harvest schedules.
Operate basic farm equipment and tools as directed, including totes, picking bags, and transport carts.
Report any equipment malfunctions, tree health issues, or safety concerns to supervisory staff promptly.
Adhere to all company policies, including the strict no-pet policy at camps and orchard facilities.
Participate in team meetings and training sessions to improve picking efficiency and product quality.
Qualifications & Skills
Required
- Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work for extended periods.
- Willingness to work night shifts and irregular hours during peak harvest season.
- Legal authorization to work in Canada (Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or valid work visa holders).
- Physical stamina to lift, bend, climb ladders, and carry loads up to 20 lbs repeatedly.
- Reliable attendance and commitment to stay through the end of the harvest season.
- Basic understanding of workplace safety and food handling hygiene.
Preferred Assets
- Prior experience in agricultural work, fruit picking, or farm labour.
- Experience working in hot or variable weather conditions.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
- Comfortable living in communal camp accommodation with shared facilities.
- Self-motivated with a strong work ethic and goal-oriented mindset.
- Backpackers and international workers with pending visa applications are encouraged to apply.
Salary & Benefits
Hourly Wage
$18.25 – $25.00 / hour
Competitive base rate for all farm workers
Piece Rate
$0.325 / lb
Rate may increase after June crop review; avg. 25 totes/day (20 lbs/tote)
Staff Accommodation
Camp Facilities
Showers, washrooms, communal kitchen, ice machines, weekly grocery bus
Living Out Allowance
$25 / Working Day
For backpackers staying in camp until end of harvest; added to final paycheque
Relocation Fee
$300
For experienced workers who stay until end of harvest (minimum days required)
Refundable Camp Fee
$250 Refund
Camp fee fully refunded if you stay until the end of harvest
Job Location
All positions are based at Jealous Fruits orchards and camp facilities in Kelowna, British Columbia, located in the heart of the stunning Okanagan Valley.
7980 Highway 97 North, Kelowna, BC V4V 1T3
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
Kelowna (Population ~150,000)
4-hour drive from Vancouver; 40-minute flights available
Kelowna is a vibrant lakefront town offering outstanding services, amenities, a bustling cultural life, and year-round recreational opportunities. On your day off, enjoy the best beaches in the Okanagan Valley or visit local wineries.
How to Apply
- Visit the Official Careers Portal: Go to Jealous Fruits Careers and search for “General Farm Worker” or “Fruit Farm Worker” positions.
- Prepare Your Documents: Have your resume, proof of work authorization (Canadian ID, PR card, or work permit), and references ready.
- Submit Your Application: Complete the online application form through the Dayforce HCM portal and upload all required documents.
- Visa & Work Permit: Anyone who can legally work in Canada can apply. If your working visa is pending, you may still apply—employment will depend on confirmed work rights.
- Camp Registration: If accepted, register for staff camp accommodation. Bring your own tent and sleeping amenities. The $250 camp fee is fully refundable upon completion of the harvest.
- Attend Orientation: Arrive for pre-season orientation covering safety protocols, picking techniques, and camp rules before the July 25 start date.
For more information about working in Canadian agriculture and visa sponsorship pathways, visit the Government of Canada Work in Canada Portal.
Summary
The General Farm Worker position at Jealous Fruits Ltd. offers a unique opportunity to work in one of Canada’s most beautiful agricultural regions while earning competitive wages through a combination of hourly pay and piece-rate bonuses. With staff accommodation, living-out allowances, and relocation support, this seasonal role is ideal for backpackers, international workers, and anyone seeking hands-on experience in Canadian agriculture.
Whether you are looking to fund your travels, gain agricultural experience, or start a career in Canadian farming, Jealous Fruits provides a supportive environment with excellent facilities and a strong commitment to worker safety and satisfaction. Join over 1,000 seasonal staff and be part of the 2026 cherry harvest in the world-renowned Okanagan Valley.
Explore more agriculture and farming jobs across Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need previous farm work experience to apply?
No prior experience is required. Jealous Fruits welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and provides on-the-job training. However, prior agricultural or physical labour experience is considered an asset.
Can international workers or backpackers apply?
Yes. Anyone who can legally work in Canada is welcome to apply. If you are in the process of obtaining a working visa, you may submit your application, but employment is contingent on confirmed work rights. Backpackers staying in camp receive a $25 per day Living Out Allowance.
What is the piece rate, and how much can I earn?
The base piece rate is $0.325 per pound, which may increase after the June crop review. On average, pickers handle 25 totes per day (20 lbs per tote), with top performers reaching 40–45 totes daily. Combined with the hourly wage, earnings potential is substantial for motivated workers.
What are the working hours and schedule?
Work hours range from 30 to 50 hours per week. Due to high daytime temperatures, picking occurs primarily at night and during cooler early morning hours. Workers receive one day off every 7 days to rest and enjoy the Okanagan Valley.
Is accommodation provided?
Yes. Jealous Fruits operates staff camps with accommodation for up to 680 seasonal workers. Facilities include showers, washrooms, a communal kitchen, ice machines, and a weekly grocery bus. A $250 camp fee applies but is fully refunded if you stay until the end of harvest. You must bring your own tent and sleeping amenities.
Are pets allowed at the camp or orchard?
No. A strict no-pet policy is enforced at all camps, facilities, and orchards due to food safety regulations. Please make alternative arrangements for any pets before applying.
What should I bring for camp living?
You must bring your own tent and sleeping amenities. The camp provides shared showers, washrooms, a communal kitchen, and ice machines. A weekly grocery bus is available for supplies. Setting up your tent under the Poplars is recommended for shade and comfort.
When does the harvest season start and end?
The key harvest period runs from July 25 to August 25, 2026. Workers are expected to commit to the full season to qualify for the refundable camp fee, LOA payments, and relocation fee.