Cherry Line Operator

This is a unique opportunity for a dynamic and energetic team player to be a part of a state-of-the-art, fresh fruit company.

Consolidated Fruit Packers has been a leader in the Canadian fresh fruit industry since 1993, supplying premium Okanagan Valley apples, cherries, blueberries, and more to satisfied consumers. With over 60 years of combined experience and the backing of Star Produce Ltd., we bring new varieties and fresh approaches to meet the needs of our customers worldwide.

Primary Focus

CFP’s Osoyoos packing facilities receive fruit (including cherries, stone fruit, pears, and apples) in bulk from Okanagan-based growers and sort it for quality and size before packaging it for shipment to our domestic and international customers. Safe and seamless production flow is an important aspect of ensuring the quality of produce for our customers.

Key Accountabilities

Responsible for the operation of the cherry line that grades and sizes fruit using computerized sorting equipment, including:

• Working closely with the Operations Team and making appropriate software grading adjustments to ensure efficiency of the optical sorter and the volume of fruit per lane
• Reviewing information collected by the Quality Control team at various areas of the packing facility to fine-tune calibration settings
• Liaising with technicians to adjust the calibration and/or fix software to maximize the production flow
• Analyzing data and images to identify patterns and trends
• Utilizing knowledge and experience to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve simple or complex problems quickly and effectively
• Liaising with the Maintenance team to Identify maintenance concerns, developing and implementing corrective and preventive measures to keep production optimally running
• Distributing key information reports to management regarding sizing, color and defects
• Accurately maintaining full traceability of fruit, including grower, lot, and/or varietal changes

Key Attributes and Skills

• Attention to Detail
• Communication skills (verbal, written, listening)
• Computer/technical abilities
• Problem solving and troubleshooting of processes
• Organization and attention to detail
• Basic mathematical skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment as part of a team as well as individually
• Patience and ability to remain calm under pressure

Education & Experience

• Experience with size, color, and defect grading technology, including governmental and industry grade standards is an asset
• Knowledge of fruit testing is an asset
• Knowledge of a second language is an asset
• First Aid training is an asset
• Previous agriculture and/or packing facility experience is an asset

Working conditions

Our work environment is extremely demanding over a short period of time. Plant operating hours are dependent on crop, production, sales, and shipping needs, with extended hours (up to 10 hours per day), seven-day-a-week operations, and extremely limited days off during harvest months. Applicants must be available from the start of June until the end of September.

Physical requirements

• Prolonged periods of standing
• Ability to quickly grasp, manipulate, move, and assemble objects
• Frequent lifting and carrying of up to 25 kilograms (50 pounds)
• Frequent walking
• Occasional handling and use of cleaning tools