If you’re looking for seasonal work or a chance to explore Canada’s beautiful countryside while earning money, fruit picking jobs in Canada offer a fantastic opportunity. Every year, thousands of local and international workers travel across Canadian provinces to harvest fruits like apples, cherries, strawberries, blueberries, grapes, and even mushrooms. These jobs are in high demand due to Canada’s vast agricultural landscape, providing reliable income, outdoor work, and cultural experiences.

This article will explore everything you need to know about fruit picking jobs in Canada, including typical salaries, requirements, the best regions to work in, and tips for getting hired.

Why consider fruit picking jobs in Canada?

1. Competitive hourly wages

According to listings from various Canadian farms and employment agencies (as seen on platforms like Glassdoor), fruit picking jobs typically pay between CA$15.65 to CA$19.00 per hour, depending on the type of crop, location, and the employer. For example:

• Jealous Fruits in Kelowna offers experienced cherry pickers a seasonal income estimate of CA$35K – CA$44K.

• Many farms such as those in Abbotsford, Kelowna, or Blenheim pay between CA$17.23 and CA$18.50 per hour.

Given that these are often full-time, multi-week roles during the harvest season, workers can save a substantial amount over a few months.

2. Minimal entry requirements

Most fruit picking jobs in Canada do not require a degree, certificate, or prior experience. The main requirements typically include:

• Basic English communication skills.

• Physical ability to lift up to 23 kg (50 lbs) and work outdoors in all weather conditions.

• Willingness to perform repetitive tasks like hand harvesting, sorting, and packing.

Some employers, like those offering foreman or supervisor positions (for example, Dorenberg Orchards Ltd. in Winfield), may require a high school diploma and skills such as operating forklifts or managing irrigation systems.

3. Opportunities for international workers

Canada’s Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) allows workers from participating countries (such as Mexico and Caribbean nations) to come to Canada for fruit harvesting and related farm work. Many farms also hire newcomers, refugees, or international backpackers who are on working holiday visas. Farms often support workers with transportation arrangements and temporary housing.

Where are the best places in Canada for fruit picking jobs?

Because Canada’s agricultural industry is spread across multiple provinces, fruit picking jobs are available nationwide. However, some regions stand out:

✅ British Columbia

• Okanagan Valley (Kelowna, Vernon, Keremeos, Osoyoos): Known for cherries, peaches, apples, pears, and vineyards. Many postings are from Kelowna and Keremeos, offering consistent seasonal work.

• Fraser Valley (Abbotsford, Maple Ridge): Hosts berry farms (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) and mushroom farms.

✅ Ontario

• Niagara-on-the-Lake and Blenheim: Famous for apples, grapes, and tender fruits.

• Simcoe and Delhi: Strong vegetable and fruit industries, including tobacco and ginseng.

✅ Quebec & Atlantic Canada

• Memramcook, New Brunswick: Apple picking jobs like those at Verger Belliveau Orchard.

• Southern Quebec: Strawberries and apples.

What kind of work will you do as a fruit picker?

Typical tasks listed by Canadian farms include:

• Hand picking fruits and vegetables: Whether it’s cherries in Kelowna or apples in Niagara, you’ll harvest by hand, ensuring fruits aren’t damaged.

• Grading and sorting: Sorting produce by size, color, shape, and quality to maximize market value.

• Packing and crating: Preparing fruits for shipment to stores or processing plants.

• Farm maintenance: Some jobs involve planting, irrigating, monitoring water lines, or even basic machine operation.

• Quality control: Checking produce to ensure it meets market standards.

These roles often start early in the morning to avoid mid-day heat, especially for delicate crops like berries and cherries.

Typical benefits and working conditions

While fruit picking is physically demanding, it comes with several benefits:

• Outdoor lifestyle: Work amidst beautiful orchards and landscapes.

• Short-term commitment: Most contracts last 2-4 months, ideal for students or travelers.

• Support for workers: Many employers provide or help arrange accommodation at low costs. Some even assist with travel, especially if you’re returning for another season.

Employers like Jealous Fruits explicitly advertise perks like helping seasonal workers with flights home or to their next travel destination after the season ends.

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Tips to get a fruit picking job in Canada

🌱 1. Apply early

Recruitment for summer harvests often starts in the late winter or early spring. Applying early increases your chances, especially if accommodation is limited.

🌱 2. Highlight your stamina and teamwork

Even without experience, showing that you can work long hours, lift heavy loads, and enjoy outdoor team environments makes you an attractive candidate.

🌱 3. Consider multiple crops

If you want to extend your earning season, look for opportunities to switch crops. For instance, start with strawberries in June, cherries in July, apples and grapes through September.

🌱 4. Look on specialized job boards

In addition to Glassdoor, sites like Job Bank Canada, Indeed, and local farm associations frequently post seasonal openings.

FAQs about fruit picking jobs in Canada

Do you need a visa?

If you’re not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you’ll generally need a work permit. Many employers hire through Canada’s SAWP or Agricultural Stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).

What’s the age limit?

There is no strict age limit, but you must be physically fit and legally eligible to work in Canada.

Is accommodation provided?

Many farms offer basic housing, sometimes at a small weekly fee. Always confirm living arrangements before accepting an offer.

Can couples or friends work together?

Many farms encourage it since it helps maintain morale and productivity.

Final thoughts: Is fruit picking in Canada worth it?

For those seeking seasonal income, a working holiday, or a taste of rural life, fruit picking jobs in Canada offer a unique and rewarding opportunity. With competitive wages, minimal entry barriers, and the chance to explore stunning regions across the country, these jobs continue to attract thousands every year.

Whether you’re a student looking for a summer job, an international backpacker funding your travels, or simply someone who enjoys working outdoors, Canada’s fruit picking industry has a place for you. Start applying early, prepare for some hard but satisfying work, and you could soon find yourself in an orchard under the Canadian sun.