Position Summary The Vineyard & Orchard Field Worker / Equipment Operator performs hands-on seasonal agricultural work in the Caldwell First Nation vineyard and orchard, supporting the planting, care, harvest and upkeep of crops and grounds. The role is also responsible for the safe operation of tractors and agricultural equipment used for cultivation, mowing, transportation, harvesting support and general property maintenance. The position helps keep the vineyard and orchard healthy, productive and safe throughout the growing season.

Working under the day-to-day direction of the Vineyard & Orchard Manager, the Vineyard & Orchard Field Worker / Equipment Operator completes assigned field tasks, operates equipment safely, reports crop, equipment and safety concerns, and helps maintain well-kept growing areas. The anticipated seasonal schedule is 40 hours per week for approximately 8 weeks, typically spring through late fall, with dates and scheduling confirmed according to weather, crop and operational requirements.

Key Responsibilities

- Perform seasonal vineyard and orchard work, including pruning, tying, trellising, thinning, weeding, mowing and general canopy and row maintenance, following instructions and good agricultural practices.
- Plant, stake and care for young vines and trees, and help with mulching, irrigation checks and row and block upkeep.
- Harvest grapes and orchard fruit by hand or with assigned equipment, handling fruit carefully and following quality, sorting and food safety standards.
- Monitor vines, trees and fruit, and promptly report signs of pest, disease, frost or weather damage, irrigation problems and other crop concerns to the Field Supervisor.
- Assist with pest and weed management only within training, certification and established procedures; pesticide handling and application are limited to appropriately certified staff.
- Operate tractors, mowers, utility vehicles and other agricultural equipment in a safe and efficient manner to support vineyard, orchard and property maintenance activities.
- Perform cultivation, mowing, hauling, harvesting support, transportation of materials, and general land maintenance using tractors and equipment attachments.
- Conduct daily pre-operational inspections of tractors, vehicles and equipment and report maintenance or repair needs promptly.
- Perform routine equipment maintenance, including cleaning, fueling,



lubricating and monitoring equipment performance.
- Move, load and unload bins, crates, supplies and equipment using suitable mechanical aids, tractors or team assistance where required.
- Travel between vineyard and orchard blocks and collect supplies as directed, using a Caldwell First Nation vehicle or tractor when authorized.
- Follow site health and safety practices, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and report incidents and near misses promptly.
- Report defective equipment immediately and tag it out of service in accordance with established procedures.
- Record working time and submit time-off requests through Payworks, and complete required harvest, equipment inspection, work and incident records.
- Follow Caldwell First Nation policies and procedures and perform other related field and equipment operation duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

- Experience in vineyard, orchard, farm or other agricultural work is preferred; willingness to learn on the job is essential.
- Experience operating tractors, agricultural machinery, mowers, loaders or similar equipment is preferred.
- Practical knowledge of common hand tools, pruning tools and safe work practices.
- Knowledge of equipment safety procedures, inspections and preventative maintenance practices.
- Ability to follow instructions, recognize crop or equipment concerns and know when to ask for help.
- Basic computer or mobile skills and the ability to use or learn Payworks.
- Experience working with Indigenous communities or community enterprises is considered an asset.

Skills and Competencies

- Good communication, teamwork and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently under direction and collaborate effectively with the field team.
- Attention to detail, care with crops and equipment, and sound judgment.
- Ability to safely operate agricultural equipment in varying terrain and weather conditions.
- Reliability, flexibility and the ability to respond to changing weather and harvest priorities.




- Respectful service and a commitment to confidentiality, professionalism and Caldwell First Nation's community values.

Working Conditions

- Seasonal work in the Caldwell First Nation vineyard and orchard, anticipated at 40 hours per week for approximately 8 weeks. The Manager confirms the work schedule and seasonal dates.
- Early starts, weekends and extended hours may be required during harvest and weather-sensitive periods.
- Work takes place outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, sun and dust, and involves standing, walking, bending, reaching, kneeling, repetitive motion and handling materials.
- Regular operation of tractors and agricultural equipment for extended periods.
- Tasks may involve lifting or moving items weighing up to 50 pounds, using suitable mechanical aids or team assistance where needed and following secure handling procedures. Appropriate accommodation applies.
- Travel between blocks and for supply collection may be required.
- Appropriate protective equipment, including safety footwear, sun and weather protection, gloves, eye protection and hearing protection, must be used as required for the task.

Reporting Relationship The Vineyard & Orchard Field Worker / Equipment Operator reports directly to the Vineyard & Orchard Manager.

Additional Requirements

- Valid Ontario Class G Driver's Licence and a driving record acceptable for operating Caldwell First Nation vehicles; experience operating tractors and agricultural equipment is preferred.
- Ability to work the assigned seasonal schedule, including extended hours during harvest.
- Completion of required site orientation, equipment training and health and safety instruction before performing assigned tasks.
- Demonstrated commitment to safe equipment operation and adherence to workplace health and safety requirements.
- Must follow Caldwell First Nation policies and maintain confidentiality and professionalism.

Disclaimer This is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications required for the position. Caldwell First Nation reserves the right to amend or modify this at any time based on operational requirements.

Pay: $18.00-$20.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Work Location: In person

📌 Vineyard & Orchard Field Worker / Equipment Operator (Leamington)
🏢 Caldwell First Nation
📍 Leamington