FAQ
How do you communicate daily work scheduleS?
Here on the Website: Please check your specific Crews page each night for updates in case work is called off for the next day due to weather, field changes, etc. The site is updated by 8:00 pm.
Crew Texts: Crew Leaders will text important information regarding your crew and daily activity. You and/or your parents can opt-in to receive these messages. Your supervisor will give you instructions and the crew code.
Facebook: We also post information on our Facebook page, but not updates about daily work after the season gets going. For work schedule updates, your Crew page is the place to go! Our Facebook page is facebook.com/SandJdetasselinginc
Do we work if it’s raining?
In the event of rain or possible rain, workers should report to work unless notified otherwise. Remember that it may be storming where you are, but weather conditions at the field may be suitable for working. If we sit on the bus due to lightning, workers will be paid for rain time at minimum wage.
What do I wear and bring?
Arms and legs must be covered. Please wear breathable long-sleeve shirts or protective sleeves with a short-sleeve t-shirt. Instead of jeans, we recommend lightweight pants, tights under long shorts, scrubs, or shorts and long socks. Note: knees need to be covered if wearing shorts and high socks. Bring raincoat or garbage bag, lunch in a cooler, ice water, lace-up old tennis shoes, and sunscreen. Safety glasses, hats and gloves are provided. Label your belongings.
For more complete information, please see the Detasseling 101 page.
Can I bring my cell phone?
Workers are not allowed to use cell phones in the field, but they may keep them in their lunch boxes or camelbacks for use on the ride home. We recommend putting them in Ziplocs or water repelling cases to protect from condensation in their lunch boxes.
When do I get paid?
Work performed will be paid on an S&J Detasseling check bimonthly. If you have direct deposit, the paycheck is usually received on the Friday after payroll ends. Paper checks are usually received by Monday after the payroll period ends. Please wait until the following Saturday to call the office if you still have not received a check. Please record your hours daily at home.
What is the difference between field-time and non-field time?
Work is categorized as field time and non-field time. Non-field time includes rain time, travel time, and breaks, which is paid at minimum wage for all workers. All workers are guaranteed minimum wage for their hours. Workers may qualify for bonuses paid on field-time hours (not non-field time hours) and will be paid on the last check of the season. Workers who do not attend 80% of the season should not expect a bonus. Workers may not make over minimum wage if they quit, are terminated, or do not receive a bonus for poor performance, behavior, or attendance.
How are bonuses calculated?
Bonuses are calculated based on performance, experience, behavior, attendance, and attitude. When workers can’t perform according to their experience level, they will be moved to other groups and their pay is adjusted accordingly. To gain a year's experience, you must detassel 10 or more days in that season.
When can I sign-up?
Sign-up usually begins in March. Apply online at sjdetasseling.com. Crews will be filled on a first-come basis. Returning workers with great work histories will be prioritized.