Team Detasseling

What do I wear?

Dress Smart
Make sure you wear clothes that you won't be afraid to get dirty.

You will need to prepare for working outdoors by wearing layers of clothing. Most detasselers wear long pants (not jeans or other heavy materials in order to stay cool), and an old long sleeve dress shirt on top of a t-shirt. These layers will allow you to stay comfortable at all times during the day and keep your skin protected.

Bringing a rain suit, a poncho or a large clean garbage bag is ideal for staying dry in the morning dew.

Wear old shoes or boots in order to protect your feet. For your safety, wearing sandals, open toed shoes or going barefoot is prohibited.

Check the weather and wear the appropriate clothing.

Please Bring

• A lot of water - at least a 2L jug
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Lunch - bring a full lunch because there is nowhere to buy any food. It is better to have too much food than not enough.

What you can expect
With an emphasis placed on attitude, you can expect to have a fun summer, with dozens of students your age. The typical day runs from 7:00 a.m. to mid-afternoon, however this changes throughout the season. Your crew leaders will keep you informed of the next day's schedule. There will be a morning and an afternoon break during a regular day, with a half hour lunch break as well. Finally, you can expect all of your hard work, effort and attitude to pay off with great wages and bonuses.

Questions and Answers

What if I need to contact a detasseler during the day?

There are hundreds of detasselers in different fields so it is time consuming and difficult to contact them while they are detasseling. If there is an emergency you can contact the MAIZEX office at 519-682-1720

What if my family plans to take summer vacation during detasseling?

The length and wages of the detasseling season depend on the employee's attendance. It is better to plan vacation before or after detasseling. Employees with the best attendance, attitude and capabilities are typically given priority as the season winds down.

What if I have allergies?

Please let MAIZEX and the crew leaders know about any allergies and provide an epi-pen if needed.

Do the detasslers work during the rain and thunderstorms?

They do not work during lightning; however they will work through rain. Please make sure they come prepared for the weather.

What if the day is done earlier than expected?

The buses will take them to their drop off location when they are finished detasseling for the day, whether it is earlier or later than scheduled.

What is the rate of pay?

All detasselers will start with minimum wage and can work their way up with bonuses based on effort, attitude, efficiency, attendance and experience.

Apply Here

Please read and accept the Detasseler's Health and Safety Policy. From there please fill out an application.

To apply please complete the following application form online or send application to:
MAIZEX Seeds Inc.
4488 Mint Line, RR#2,
Tilbury, ON N0P 2L0.
Fax 519-682-2144.

Download Printable Application Form (PDF)