Posted by Whitethorn Farm is currently recruiting a Packhouse Worker to join its team in Hereford, Herefordshire, for the busy fruit harvesting and packing season. This full-time fixed-term opportunity offers pay from £14.24 per hour, with a minimum of 30 guaranteed working hours per week. The role is ideal for individuals who enjoy practical, hands-on work in an agricultural environment and would particularly suit a gap-year student or anyone looking for seasonal employment.
In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about the salary, responsibilities, requirements, benefits, working hours, and application process.
Job Summary
- Job Title: Packhouse Worker
- Company: Whitethorn Farm
- Location: Hereford HR2 6NG, United Kingdom
- Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-Term Contract
- Salary: From £14.24 per hour
- Minimum Hours: 30 hours per week (more depending on workload)
About Whitethorn Farm
Whitethorn Farm is a fruit-growing farm based in Herefordshire. During the harvest season, the farm packs fresh produce, manages cold storage, and produces bottled apple juice for customers. The business is looking for a reliable and organised individual to help keep operations running smoothly from July through December.
Salary
Successful candidates will receive:
- From £14.24 per hour
- Minimum guaranteed 30 working hours per week
- Opportunity to work additional hours depending on seasonal demand
Key Responsibilities
As a Packhouse Worker, your duties will include:
- Managing the fruit grading line.
- Packing fruit to fulfil customer orders.
- Managing cold storage facilities.
- Juicing apples and producing bottled apple juice.
- Bottling, labelling, and preparing juice products.
- Carrying and stacking produce boxes.
- Helping maintain efficient packhouse operations.
- Working independently while ensuring work is completed to a high standard.
Requirements
To be considered, applicants should have:
- Good organisational skills.
- Ability to work efficiently with minimal supervision.
- Physical fitness to lift and stack boxes of produce.
- A valid UK driving licence.
- Access to their own transport, as the farm is not served by public transport.
- Existing right to work in the United Kingdom.
- Ability to live locally or commute reliably.
Preferred Skills
Although not essential, the following would be beneficial:
- Previous packhouse experience.
- Forklift experience.
Training will be provided for forklift operation if required.
Working Hours
Working hours generally include:
- 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Five days per week
- Some early morning starts and late finishes during busy periods
- Minimum of 30 guaranteed hours weekly
Benefits
Employees will receive:
- On-site parking
- Forklift training (where required)
- Flexible contract duration depending on availability
- Practical experience within the agricultural sector
Who Should Apply?
This position is ideal for:
- Gap-year students
- Seasonal job seekers
- Individuals who enjoy physical outdoor or agricultural work
- Candidates looking to gain experience in food production and packing
- Reliable workers who can work independently
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the required qualifications and experience criteria should submit their application. Apply Here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this a permanent job?
No. This is a fixed-term seasonal position running from approximately July through December.
What is the hourly pay?
The role pays from £14.24 per hour.
Is previous experience required?
No. Previous packhouse experience is not required, although it would be an advantage.
Will training be provided?
Yes. Forklift training will be provided if needed.
Do I need a driving licence?
Yes. A valid UK driving licence and your own transport are required because the farm is not accessible by public transport.
Is there a minimum number of working hours?
Yes. Employees are guaranteed a minimum of 30 hours per week, with additional hours available depending on workload.
Is the work physically demanding?
Yes. The role involves lifting, carrying, and stacking boxes of fruit and other produce.
Who would this job suit?
The employer states that the position would particularly suit a gap-year student, but applications from other suitable candidates are welcome.
Is on-site accommodation available?
The job description does not mention accommodation.
Is visa sponsorship available?
The employer specifically states that applicants must already have the right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not mentioned.