Cemetery Operations Technician

Job Summary:
The Cemetery Operations Technician is responsible for overseeing and actively participating in the maintenance, landscaping, and overall care of the cemetery grounds. This position ensures that burial services, groundskeeping activities, and equipment maintenance are carried out efficiently, respectfully, and in compliance with cemetery policies and local regulations. The Operations Technician maintains the safety, appearance, and functionality of all cemetery areas, ensuring that equipment is in good working order and that all maintenance activities are accurately documented.
Primary Responsibilities:

• Grounds Maintenance & Landscaping
  • Oversee and perform routine landscaping, including mowing, trimming, planting, and seasonal clean-up.
  • Ensure pathways, plots, and common areas are kept clean, safe, and well-maintained.
  • Monitor and maintain irrigation systems, drainage, and general cemetery infrastructure.
  • Level and realign headstones and markers as needed.
  • Inspect, report, and repair damaged markers, vases, or memorials as able.
  • Maintain a clean and organized shop area and shop yard.
  • Perform snow removal and ice control when necessary.
• Burial Services & Site Preparation
  • Coordinate and participate in the preparation of gravesites, ensuring accuracy and adherence to burial procedures.
  • Assist with interments, disinterments, and marker or monument placements.
  • Ensure burial services are conducted with dignity and professionalism.
  • Close graves using appropriate tools and equipment.
  • Accurately mark grave locations for upcoming interments.
  • Lay sod or apply seed to restore gravesites following burials.
  • Ensure graves and burial spaces meet required standards before and after services.
• Equipment & Facilities Management
  • Maintain all cemetery tools, vehicles, and equipment, ensuring they are in proper working order.
  • Schedule and perform routine maintenance and repairs as needed.
  • Keep an up-to-date maintenance logbook for equipment and grounds-related activities.
  • Maintain and monitor granite and vault inventory, ensuring stock is properly recorded and reported.
• Compliance & Recordkeeping
  • Ensure all maintenance and burial activities comply with cemetery regulations and local laws.
  • Maintain accurate records of groundskeeping tasks, burial services, and equipment upkeep.
  • Report safety hazards and coordinate necessary repairs.
• Communication & Coordination
  • Maintain clear and professional communication with the Sales Manager regarding:
    • Equipment and supply needs.
    • Scheduling for burials, groundskeeping, and other tasks.
    • Any operational issues that need attention.
  • Work collaboratively with other crew members to ensure seamless cemetery operations.
• Customer & Public Interaction
  • Provide courteous assistance to families, visitors, and funeral service providers.
  • Respond to inquiries regarding cemetery operations and regulations.
  • Foster a respectful and welcoming environment for all cemetery visitors.

Expectations & Requirements:

• Physical Stamina: Ability to perform strenuous labor, including lifting 50 lbs., working in various weather conditions, and prolonged periods of standing, bending, and kneeling.
• Attention to Detail: Accuracy in grave marking, leveling, and restoration of burial sites.
• Technical Skills: Competence in operating and maintaining landscaping and burial preparation equipment.
• Dependability: Consistently arrive on time and complete assigned tasks efficiently.
• Safety Awareness: Adhere to all safety protocols and use required personal protective equipment (PPE) when applicable.
• Professionalism & Respect: Maintain a professional demeanor when interacting with families and visitors.
• Ability to effectively navigate email, conduct basic data entry, and perform other basic computer functions such as digitally signing any necessary documents.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.

Preferred:

• Experience working in a cemetery, funeral home, or similar environment.
• Certifications in landscaping, equipment operation, or cemetery management.
• Bilingual skills (if applicable to the community served).

Work Environment:

• Outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
• Physical labor, including lifting, bending, walking long distances, and operating equipment.
• Interaction with grieving families and the public, requiring empathy and professionalism.

This position plays a vital role in preserving the dignity and appearance of the cemetery while ensuring that all operations run smoothly and respectfully.

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Possible performance bonuses
• Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
• 401(k) matching
• Company paid life insurance
• Additional life insurance for purchase
• Cancer/Hospital indemnity/Accident insurance