From early September to mid-November, CHANDLER & DUNN LTD is hiring seasonal workers for apple picking and packing in Kent, South East England. This position operates on a piece-rate basis, meaning earnings depend on the quantity of apples picked. However, a minimum wage guarantee is in place.
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Job Details:
- Job Type: Temporary, Full-Time (Seasonal)
- Location: Kent, South East England
- Salary: Minimum wage guaranteed; higher earnings possible through piece-rate pay
- Experience Required: None
- Education Requirement: None
- Training Provided: Yes
Responsibilities:
- Hand-picking apples and placing them carefully in containers
- Pruning apple trees and general orchard maintenance
- Removing damaged or overripe fruit
- Loading fruits into containers and ensuring no damage occurs
- Operating farm equipment (if assigned)
- Cleaning and preparing the orchard for harvesting
Job Requirements:
- Ability to stand, walk, and bend for long hours
- Physically capable of lifting up to 60 lbs (approx. 27 kg)
- Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions
- Must apply before the application deadline
UK Seasonal Worker Visa & Eligibility:
To work in the UK as a fruit picker, foreign workers must obtain a UK Seasonal Worker Visa under the Temporary Work route. Applicants must:
- Have a valid job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor workers.
- Apply before the visa deadline.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Show proof of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.
Eligible Nationalities:
Workers from the following countries are eligible for visa sponsorship:
- Asia: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh
- Africa: Sudan
- Latin America & the Caribbean: Mexico, Jamaica, Barbados, Antigua & Barbuda, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts & Nevis
- Middle East: Saudi Arabia, UAE
Benefits:
- Visa Sponsorship: Many employers offer seasonal work visas for international workers.
- No Formal Education Required: Ideal for those without advanced qualifications.
- Free or Subsidized Accommodation: Workers may be offered on-site housing or rent support.
- Competitive Hourly Wage: Earn up to £10–£12 per hour or more during peak seasons.
- Weekly or Biweekly Pay: Regular payment schedules for financial stability.
- Overtime Opportunities: Additional shifts available during harvest peak, boosting earnings.
- On-the-Job Training: No prior experience needed; full training provided.
- Flexible Working Hours: Part-time, full-time, and weekend shifts may be available.
- Access to UK Employment Rights: Includes minimum wage, safe working conditions, and holiday pay.
- Cultural Experience: Opportunity to live and work in rural England and engage with people from diverse backgrounds.
- Healthy Work Environment: Outdoor, physical job suitable for those who enjoy nature and activity.
- Seasonal Bonus or Incentives: Some farms offer performance-based bonuses.
- Potential for Job Return Next Season: Good workers may be invited to return in future harvest seasons.
- Meals or Food Discounts: Some employers provide meal allowances or fresh fruit from the farm.
- Gateway to Long-Term Work: A starting point for those interested in agricultural or farm careers in the UK.
Challenges & Considerations:
While apple-picking jobs offer great opportunities, workers should be aware of the following:
- Weather Conditions: The work is outdoors, meaning employees will face rain, cold, or heat.
- Physical Demands: The job requires long hours of bending, standing, and lifting.
- Accommodation Costs: Some farms offer housing, but others require workers to find their own accommodation.
How to Apply for Apple Picking and Packing Jobs in England 2026?
Interested candidates should apply directly through CHANDLER & DUNN LTD’s website or contact their hiring team for application details. Be sure to submit required documents and apply before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the average pay for fruit pickers in the UK?
As of recent data, fruit pickers in the UK earn an average salary of £23,154 per year (approximately £11.44 per hour), depending on experience and work location.
Why is there a shortage of fruit pickers in the UK?
A recent government report highlighted that Brexit and COVID-19-related labor shortages have significantly impacted the UK’s farming sector, making it harder for farmers to find enough workers to harvest crops on time.
Can you go apple picking in the UK as a visitor?
Yes! Visitors can enjoy pick-your-own fruit farms, such as Broomfield Farm in Meopham, Kent..
