York Timbers invites applications for 72 Citrus Harvester positions at the Stadsrivier Vallei farm division. The vacancies are available on a fixed-term contract basis and applications are currently open for qualifying candidates with experience in citrus harvesting and general farm work.

This employment opportunity is suitable for hardworking individuals who are physically fit, reliable, and capable of working in demanding outdoor agricultural environments. Candidates with previous citrus harvesting experience and the ability to work effectively within a team environment are encouraged to apply before the closing date.

The company is seeking dedicated farm workers who can assist with harvesting activities, orchard maintenance, sorting, loading, and general farm operations during the citrus harvesting season.

Job Information:

Position: Citrus Harvesters
Number of Positions: 72
Division: Boerderij/Farm
Site: Stadsrivier Vallei, Mpumalanga
Reports To: Production Manager
Grade: A Band
Contract Type: Fixed-Term
Closing Date: 20 May 2026
Application Email: recruitment@york.co.za

About the Citrus Harvester Position

The Citrus Harvester role involves harvesting citrus fruits and assisting with general farm duties at Stadsrivier Vallei farm, Mpumalanga. Successful candidates will work in orchard environments and will be responsible for ensuring that fruit is harvested carefully to avoid damage and unnecessary losses.

The harvesting season is one of the busiest periods in the agricultural sector, making teamwork, time management, and discipline extremely important. Workers will also assist with orchard sanitation, loading and unloading crates, grading fruit, and maintaining cleanliness in working areas.

Agricultural and farming jobs continue to play a major role in South Africa’s economy, especially in citrus-producing regions where seasonal employment opportunities provide income and valuable work experience for many communities.

This opportunity may also benefit individuals looking to build long-term experience within the farming and agricultural industry.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

The selected Citrus Harvesters will perform several important duties within the farm operation. Daily responsibilities may include:

• Harvesting citrus fruits according to farm quality standards
• Reporting damaged fruit or operational deviations
• Following all Occupational Health and Safety requirements
• Wearing prescribed personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Maintaining high housekeeping and sanitation standards
• Handling fruit carefully to avoid bruising or damage
• Meeting daily harvesting targets
• Assisting with orchard maintenance
• Loading and unloading harvesting crates
• Grading and sorting harvested citrus products
• Cleaning working areas and equipment
• Supporting supervisors and production teams when required

Workers are expected to follow instructions from supervisors and maintain professionalism throughout the harvesting season.

Minimum Requirements

Candidates interested in applying for the York Timbers Citrus Harvester vacancies must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Grade 8, ABET, or equivalent qualification
• Minimum of 1 year experience in citrus harvesting
• Good communication skills
• Ability to work effectively in a team
• Strong work ethic and reliability
• Good time-management skills
• Ability to build positive working relationships
• Physically fit and capable of handling demanding tasks
• Comfortable working at heights
• Willingness to work overtime, weekends, and public holidays
• Ability to work in hot, dusty, and physically challenging conditions
• Positive attitude toward daily responsibilities

Applicants who meet most of the requirements and have previous farm work experience may have an advantage during the recruitment process.

Important Skills for Citrus Harvesters

Agricultural harvesting positions require a combination of physical ability, teamwork, and attention to detail. Some of the most important skills for this role include:

Physical Fitness

Harvesting citrus involves long hours of standing, walking, lifting crates, and working outdoors. Candidates should be physically prepared for demanding farm activities.

Attention to Quality

Fruit must be harvested carefully to avoid bruising or damage. Workers are expected to maintain quality standards at all times.

Teamwork

Farm environments rely heavily on teamwork. Workers must communicate effectively and cooperate with supervisors and colleagues.

Reliability

Attendance and punctuality are extremely important during harvesting seasons because farms operate on strict production schedules.

Safety Awareness

Following safety procedures and using protective equipment correctly helps reduce injuries and ensures compliance with workplace regulations.

Working Conditions

The Citrus Harvester positions are based in outdoor orchard environments where temperatures and weather conditions may vary. Workers may spend several hours exposed to heat, dust, and physically intensive activities.

Candidates should understand that agricultural work often requires flexibility regarding working hours, especially during peak harvesting periods. Overtime, weekend work, and public holiday shifts may be necessary depending on operational demands.

The role may also involve climbing ladders or working at elevated positions while harvesting fruit from trees.

Why Agricultural Jobs Matter in South Africa

The agricultural sector remains one of South Africa’s key employment industries, particularly in rural communities. Citrus farming contributes significantly to exports, food production, and local economic development.

Seasonal harvesting jobs create employment opportunities for thousands of workers every year. These positions help individuals gain valuable work experience while supporting farming operations that supply local and international markets.

Citrus production is especially important in regions known for farming activities, where demand for harvest workers increases during seasonal production periods.

Employment opportunities such as these may also open doors for future permanent work within agricultural companies.

Application Process

• Interested candidates should submit updated CVs before the application closing date. Applications must clearly indicate the reference or application subject as “Citrus Harvesters.”
• Applications can be sent via email to: recruitment@york.co.za

Applicants should ensure that all information provided on their CV is accurate and up to date. Including previous farm work experience, contact details, and relevant references may improve application quality.

Internal applicants are required to complete the internal application form and submit copies of qualifications where necessary.

Preference may be given to affirmative action candidates or designated groups in line with company employment policies.

Application Closing Date

The closing date for applications is: 20 May 2026

Late applications may not be considered. Early submission is recommended to avoid missing the opportunity.

Tips for Applicants

Candidates applying for farm and harvesting positions should consider the following tips when preparing applications:

• Ensure contact details are correct
• Include all farm work experience
• Mention citrus harvesting experience clearly
• Keep the CV professional and easy to read
• Include references where possible
• Use a clear email subject line
• Submit applications before the deadline

A well-prepared CV may improve the chances of being shortlisted for interviews or assessments.

Important Notice

York Timbers does not charge any fees for recruitment or job applications. Job seekers should be cautious of scams requesting payment for employment opportunities.

Applicants are encouraged to apply only through the official email address provided in the job advertisement.

Conclusion

The York Timbers Citrus Harvester vacancies provide an excellent opportunity for individuals with farm work and citrus harvesting experience to secure seasonal employment within the agricultural sector. With 72 positions available, suitable candidates have the opportunity to join a professional farming environment focused on quality production and teamwork.

Candidates who are physically fit, reliable, safety-conscious, and experienced in citrus harvesting should submit applications before 20 May 2026. Agricultural employment opportunities continue to offer valuable work experience and income opportunities across South Africa’s farming communities.