Quality Detasseling Contractors (QDC) is set to hire over 100 corn detasselers and leaders in the Wallaceburg, Dresden and surrounding areas again this summer.
Mike Scollard, owner of the company, says this is similar to last year and there are money making opportunities for both detasselers and leaders.
A good news story this season is that all COVID-19 safety protocols have been lifted.
This means everyone can get back to normal with regard to seating and masking etc.
“Anyone choosing to wear a mask certainly can, but it isn’t mandatory at this time,” Scollard said.
“If any protocols are re-introduced prior to, or during the detasseling season, we will be following those.”
Another piece of good news for workers this year is that wage rates are up again.
There is also a higher yearend pay and more travel time being allocated.
The minimum wage this season has been raised to $14.10 per hour for those under 18 and $15 per hour for 18 and over.
“The steady increase in minimum wage rates should get young people excited to come out and work and be able to earn more money again this summer,” Scollard said, adding these are just the minimum hourly rates.
“We will be continuing with our higher pay programs for experienced workers and those who come out and get the job done for us every day.”
Scollard added there are also opportunities available to take on leadership positions.
“As students gain experience they can start training and leading others, and get a pay raise as well,” he said.
“For many young people it’s their first real leadership position. And it’s valuable experience to have for other jobs. Whether you are new to detasseling or have some experience, the higher pay, bonus and leadership opportunity really rewards ambitious young workers.”
Detasselers need to be at least 13-years-old to register and leaders must be a minimum of 17-18 yrs old and have at least two years of detasseling experience.
QDC also hires numerous young adults and adults from the area for supervisory and bus driving positions.
“There are a quite a variety of jobs that need to be filled in order to have a successful detasseling season,” Scollard said.
The planting of the crop has gone quite well this spring.
Although exact dates for detasseling will depend on growing conditions between now and into July, it could begin a bit earlier than normal this year.
“Detasseling usually starts around mid-July but this season could start in the week before,” Scollard said.
“For anyone interested in coming out to work this year and also planning a vacation, it would be best to take it in very early July or sometime toward the middle of August.”
Although weather does play a big role in how the season unfolds, a typical day is six to eight hours.
“On hot days it’s best to wrap it up a bit earlier,” Scollard said.
“It also helps motivate young people to come back out the next day too.”
QDC has six pick up locations and numerous buses operating throughout the area, including Bothwell and Thamesville, so there’s one close to everyone, Scollard added.
You can get more information about QDC and their student summer job opportunity, visit: www.JobsAtQDC.com
– This story is sponsored content.
