Viterra’s annual employment drive has begun with about 1300 workers being sought to join the company as a harvest casual across South Australia and Western Victoria.
Already a major employer in regional areas, Viterra’s harvest casual work provides a boost to local communities and plays an important role in servicing grain growers during harvest.
Michael Hill, Group Operations Manager, said applications were now open for people wishing to work harvest across more than 80 sites in South Australia and western Victoria.
“A range of positions are available for people seeking short-term work between October and January,” Michael said.
“No experience is necessary. We provide training for the various roles which include general grain handling, bunker operations, weighbridge operations and grain classification.”
Michael said the harvest recruitment program and other pre-harvest activities were crucial in ensuring Viterra delivered a smooth experience for growers at harvest.
“Significant planning and preparation occurs for harvest each year. We are working closely with growers to get their feedback on the segregation plan as well as production estimates.
“We are surveying growers at the moment to gauge varieties and acreage sown. Anyone wishing to have their say can call their local Operations Coordinator.
“Shipping last year’s record crop has also been a key focus. We’ve passed 6.15 million tonnes of bulk exports out of South Australia and are still going.”
To apply for a harvest job or for more information on the range of roles available, visit viterra.com.au.
Applications are open for all regions across South Australia and western Victoria. Applications for Adelaide-based jobs open on various dates in August, depending on the role.
Employee profiles:
Dean Matthews, Pest Controller on the Eyre Peninsula, worked three harvests as a backpacker before deciding to stay with the company permanently.
“I found working at harvest really fun, it was all brand new to me,” Dean said.
“The hype around harvest is really enjoyable and also being a backpacker there was a great opportunity to make a lot of money in a short amount of time.”
“Everyone’s really welcoming and there’s a range of different jobs available.”
Tegan Nottle, Operator at Bowmans, started with the company as a harvest casual five years ago and said it was a great way for young people to get experience in the workforce.
“You learn to work in a team environment, surrounded by lots of people,” she said.
“I love harvest because of the grower interaction, the high intensity and the customer service we provide. Every day you come to work and do something different.”
Ian Przibilla, Operator at Tailem Bend, has been through 13 harvests.
“Harvest is really great. I love working here, I love the people and the variety,” Ian said.
“There’s lots of different jobs, it all depends on your ability. You can work on the blocks and grids, out on the bunkers on the hoppers and stackers, or you can work in classification hut.”