Graders and Sorters, Agricultural Products

Sort, categorize, or grade raw food and other agricultural goods based on their size, weight, color, or condition.

Career Snapshot

ABOUT AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS GRADER OR SORTER CAREERS

Have you ever wondered who decides whether an egg is grade A or a steak is prime? Consumers rely on the expertise of agricultural graders and sorters. They determine what is best, second best, and unacceptable. 

Graders and sorters inspect agricultural items and raw foods on their way to market. They evaluate them based on their size, weight, look, and condition. Eggs, for example, are classified based on their colour and size. Meat is graded according on its fat layers. Products that are deemed to be subpar are discarded. The price that can be paid for the goods is determined by the grade it is assigned. 

Work is often performed in clean, air-conditioned facilities, and because some items can spoil if not evaluated and sent swiftly, work hours may include evenings and weekends. Sorters and graders must be able to lift heavy boxes for examination and rapidly identify the quality and grade of items while standing for long periods of time. 

Beginners begin with simple eye inspection and progress to on-the-job training. Those who test items are frequently required to have a high school diploma. Despite the fact that job development in this industry is limited, there are chances at agricultural and food product companies, produce packing operations, and some grocery shops. Sorters and graders contribute to the strict standards that keep our country's food goods among the best in the world.

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Wages


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Characteristics

Dealing and handling conflicts
Physical demands
Exposure to job hazards
Exposure to extreme environmental conditions
Comfort of the work setting
Work closely with team members, clients etc.
Communication with others
Competition for this position
Job challenge and pressure to meet deadlines
Level of responsibilities
Critical decision making
Leadership

Activities

Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Know More
Getting Information Know More
Handling and Moving Objects Know More
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Know More
Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People Know More
Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Know More
Performing General Physical Activities Know More
Processing Information Know More

Areas of Study

Administration and Management Know More
Education and Training Know More
English Language Know More
Food Production Know More
Foreign Language Know More
Mechanical Know More
Production and Processing Know More
Public Safety and Security Know More

Degrees

Colleges

Top Skills

Active Listening Know More
Coordination Know More
Critical Thinking Know More
Judgment and Decision Making Know More
Monitoring Know More
Reading Comprehension Know More
Speaking Know More
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