Harry & David is one of America’s most recognized premium gift brands, famous for its Royal Riviera pears, honeybell oranges, gourmet food baskets, and specialty products. Every harvest season, the company hires fruit pickers and packing workers to support orchard and warehouse operations in the United States.
In 2026, seasonal fruit picking and packing jobs at Harry & David may be available under the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Program, which allows U.S. employers to legally hire foreign farm workers when local labor is insufficient.
If you’re looking for fruit picking jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship, this guide explains eligibility, salary expectations, visa details, benefits, and how to apply.
Job Overview – Harry & David Fruit Jobs 2026
- Country: United States
- Industry: Agriculture / Orchard & Packing Operations
- Job Type: Seasonal Farm Worker
- Visa Type: H-2A Temporary Agricultural Visa
- Experience Required: Not mandatory (training provided)
- Education Required: No formal degree required
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Employment Term: Seasonal (typically 4–10 months)
- Salary (2026): $16 – $20 per hour (varies by state)
- Accommodation: Usually provided under H-2A regulations
Harry & David’s operations are primarily based in Oregon and other fruit-producing regions.
What Does a Fruit Picker / Packer Do?
As part of the harvest team, responsibilities may include:
Orchard Work
- Picking pears, apples, or other fruits at peak ripeness
- Carrying picking bags and equipment
- Climbing ladders safely
- Sorting fruit by quality
Packing House Work
- Grading and inspecting fruit
- Packing fruit into gift boxes
- Labeling and preparing products for shipment
- Following food safety guidelines
Work is physically demanding and performed outdoors or in warehouse facilities.
H-2A Visa – How Sponsorship Works
To work legally in U.S. agriculture, foreign workers must obtain an H-2A visa.
Basic Requirements:
- Job offer from a U.S. employer approved for H-2A hiring
- Employer must receive temporary labor certification
- Proof you intend to return to your home country after contract ends
- Clean criminal record
- Medical clearance
- Citizenship from an eligible country listed annually by U.S. authorities
The H-2A visa is temporary and does not automatically lead to permanent residency.
How Long Can You Stay?
- Initial stay matches contract period (often up to 10 months)
- Extensions possible
- Maximum stay under H-2A: Up to 3 years (with renewals)
- After maximum stay, worker must leave the U.S. before reapplying
There is no automatic green card pathway through seasonal fruit picking jobs.
Salary & Earnings (2026 Update)
Under U.S. regulations, H-2A workers must be paid at least the state’s Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR).
- Hourly Wage: $16 – $20
- Estimated Seasonal Earnings: $25,000 – $40,000 (depending on hours & duration)
- Overtime: May apply depending on state law
Wage rates vary by location.
Benefits of H-2A Fruit Picking Jobs
U.S. labor regulations require certain benefits:
Free Housing
Approved employer-provided accommodation at no cost.
Transportation Support
Inbound and return travel costs may be reimbursed.
Competitive Pay
Regulated minimum wages.
Worker Protections
Protected under U.S. labor laws.
Training Provided
No prior experience required in many cases.
Some employers may also provide subsidized meals or transportation.
Job Requirements
To qualify:
- Minimum age 18
- Physically fit for outdoor labor
- Able to stand, bend, and lift for extended periods
- Basic communication ability
- Willingness to work in varying weather conditions
- Meet H-2A visa eligibility criteria
High school education is not mandatory but may be preferred.
Who Can Apply?
H-2A eligibility depends on nationality. The U.S. government publishes an official list of eligible countries each year.
Applicants must:
- Be from an approved country
- Meet visa and health requirements
- Secure a valid job offer from a participating employer
Nationality eligibility is determined by U.S. authorities, not by the employer.
How to Apply for Harry & David Fruit Jobs 2026
Step 1: Check Official Openings
Visit Harry & David’s official careers page to search for seasonal harvest roles.
Step 2: Confirm H-2A Participation
Ensure the job posting mentions H-2A visa hiring.
Step 3: Submit Application
Apply online with:
- Updated resume
- Work history (if any)
- Valid passport details
Step 4: Employer Files Petition
Employer submits required documentation for H-2A approval.
Step 5: Visa Interview
Attend U.S. embassy interview once approved.
Important Notes
- Do not pay illegal recruitment fees
- H-2A jobs are seasonal and temporary
- Permanent residency is not automatic
- Verify employer participation in the H-2A program
- Always use official company websites
Is This a Good Opportunity in 2026?
Fruit picking and packing jobs at Harry & David provide:
- Legal seasonal employment
- Competitive regulated wages
- Free housing under H-2A
- International work experience
However, work is physically demanding and temporary.
Final Thoughts
Fruit Picking and Packing Jobs at Harry & David USA in 2026 can be an excellent opportunity for foreign workers seeking legal seasonal employment through the H-2A visa program. With regulated wages, employer-provided housing, and structured contracts, these roles remain among the most accessible agricultural jobs in the United States.
If you meet the physical requirements and secure an approved job offer, this could be your chance to gain valuable international work experience in the U.S. agricultural sector.
Prepare your documents early and apply only through verified, official company channels.