Leading grain handler Viterra has opened applications for 1500 seasonal positions across South Australia and western Victoria as it prepares for a promising 2021/22 harvest.
Viterra Operations Manager Michael Hill says harvest workers are more important than ever this year to help get Australian grain to market.
“Grain is a key commodity in South Australia and western Victoria, contributing significantly to state and local economies. Harvest workers play a big role in helping move locally grown grain into storage so that it can be sold to markets across Australia and globally,” Michael says.
With roles appealing to a wide range of job seekers, there is flexibility to be based at 55 storage and handling locations, with on the job training and no prior experience required.
Viterra Human Resources Manager Alyson Gilbey says the harvest presents an excellent opportunity for people of all ages and from all walks of life to earn good money and learn new skills.
“Harvest enables people to upskill or gain new work experience, make friends and earn money in a short space of time, with good hourly rates. There is also potential to develop a career and stay in an ongoing role,” Alyson says.
“Anyone can apply, with no need for prior experience. We give on-the-job training and development to ensure employees have the skills and support they need to take on a wide range of roles.”
For second-year nursing student, Hannah, applying for the harvest with Viterra was an opportunity to broaden her skillset while earning money for the year ahead at university.
“It gave me a chance to experience new things and really challenge myself. Over the course of the harvest, I was able to step into different roles and take on new responsibilities,” Hannah says.
“Plus, the pay is really good! During the year it can be tricky balancing work with study, but what I earn during the harvest really sets me up for the rest of the year. If you’re considering applying, I’d definitely say go for it.”
Alyson says the harvest will be relying on people like Hannah more this year as the number of people travelling interstate continues to be impacted by COVID.
“The work available with Viterra is a great fit for people looking for work experience, or those between jobs seeking short-term opportunities.
“We get a lot of applications from people of all ages and backgrounds including semi-retirees travelling through the state.”
Grey nomads, Michelle and Darren, are hoping to be back for another harvest saying they first took up roles with Viterra to fund their retirement travel.
“Now it’s an annual event that we both look forward to,” Michelle says.
Viterra offers a supportive team environment with the potential to travel with the harvest to work at different sites. Positions are available from approximately October until January 2022 and include grain handling, bunker and weighbridge operations as well as laboratory grain analysts, with career progression possible across the company.
“We receive very positive feedback on the fast pace of harvest, with workers gaining experience in different areas, taking on new responsibilities and having the opportunity to meet new people from a range of places,” Alyson says.
