Picker
Pickers collect natural produce, such as berries, mushrooms and herbs from nature. Pickers also work in gardens collecting farmed berries. In addition to food, natural produce can be used in the production of craft products, natural cosmetics and medical substances. The work requires knowledge of different plants, finger dexterity and physical fitness.
Pickers work for companies in the natural produce and horticultural sector and as entrepreneurs.
The most important tasks of the picker are to identify the produce to be collected and collect it appropriately using the correct tools and methods. The work must be carried out hygienically so that the collected produce is kept as clean as possible. The picker must be familiar with everyman’s rights and know whether the collection of produce is permitted on the basis of them or whether a landowner’s permit is required. The cleanliness of the area must be assessed when choosing a picking site. Picking must be done responsibly and sustainably, paying attention to respecting the natural environment.
The work requires finger dexterity, the ability to tolerate routine work and physical fitness. In addition, the work requires diligence, initiative and cooperation skills. The picker’s job description may also include packaging and storage, which require related competence. You must be able to move about and navigate in nature.
The work is seasonal and often requires travelling for work.
Employers provide instruction into the work. Course-based training is also organised for the collection of natural produce.
Vocational institutions offer a vocational qualification in natural and environmental protection, called natural resources producer. The training can also be completed with an apprenticeship.
The picker card is issued for completing the training. The picker card is not mandatory, but many buyers consider it a guarantee of quality.
Poimijakortti myönnetään hyväksytysti suoritetusta poimijakoulutuksesta. Poimijakortti ei ole pakollinen, mutta monet ostajat pitävät sitä laadun takeena.
In berry picking work carried out in an employment relationship, the collective agreement for rural industries is complied with. The pay is usually based on performance, which means that it’s based on how much produce you pick.
The pickers of forest berries are usually not in an employment relationship. Their pay is based on work performance, and they have the right to sell the produce they pick to a buyer of their choice. By shopping around for different buyers, pickers can get the best possible price for their produce.