Cemetery Development Specialist

At Carriage Services, we are united by our purpose of creating premier experiences through innovation, empowered partnership, and elevated service. As a member of our team, you'll join a dynamic community dedicated to setting new standards in the Funeral and Cemetery profession. Join us on this exciting journey as we continue to shape the future of our industry. Carriage Services is an equal opportunity employer.

The Cemetery Development Specialist is responsible for leading and executing all approved cemetery development projects across Carriage’s portfolio of cemeteries. This role will oversee the full lifecycle of development projects, from conceptual design through construction and performance to proforma, ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with our strategic growth objectives. Additionally, this leader will drive the digitization of cemetery operations, including blueprints, files, lot cards, and inventory systems, to create modern, technology-enabled processes that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and customer experience.

The Cemetery Development Manager will serve as the central point of coordination between field and corporate leadership, sales, operations, accounting, FP&A, and external vendors, ensuring that all cemetery projects maximize customer experience, operational efficiency, and financial performance.

Compensation: $110,000k (Depends on Experience)

Job Type: Full time (In office 4 days 1 day from home)

Location: 3040 Post Oak Blvd. Houston Tx (Galleria Area) Must be located in Houston, TX

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all cemetery development initiatives.
• Develop project timelines, milestones, and deliverables, ensuring accountability across all stakeholders.
• Oversee and monitor all phases of cemetery construction, design, approval, expansions, and renovations.
• Manage project budgets, forecasts, and financial reporting; ensure projects achieve or exceed pro forma performance.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, landscape designers, and internal stakeholders to develop cemetery layouts that balance functionality, aesthetics, and cultural considerations. All while evaluating the type of inventory sold, sales velocity, and demographic trends.
• Source and evaluate quotes from vendors and contractors; negotiate contracts to ensure cost effectiveness and quality.
• Build and maintain strong vendor relationships to support project needs and long-term partnerships.
• Ensure compliance with zoning regulations, permitting, and environmental requirements.
• Partner with the VP of Sales to align cemetery development plans with market demand and sales strategy.
• Work closely with field operations to ensure development projects support local needs and enhance customer service delivery.
• Communicate project progress, risks, and outcomes to executive leadership and other stakeholders.
• Provide post-construction support, including punch list oversight, operational transition, and lessons learned.
• Develop standardized processes and tools for cemetery project planning, execution, and performance tracking.
• Identify opportunities for innovation in cemetery design, including sustainability initiatives, digital memorialization, and customer experience enhancements.
• Support long-term corporate development strategy through market analysis and identification of high-potential cemetery development opportunities.
• Lead initiatives to digitize cemetery blueprints, maps, property records, inventory, and files, ensuring accurate and accessible systems.
• Collaborate with technology partners to implement digital mapping and inventory tools that support both sales and operations.

• Drive adoption of digital platforms across field teams to enhance efficiency and customer transparency.
• Ensure digital transformation projects integrate seamlessly with ongoing development and corporate growth plans.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Business Administration, or related field.
• 5 years of project management experience, ideally within cemetery, real estate development, or a related construction-heavy industry.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering large-scale capital projects from inception through completion.
• Experience managing financial proformas, capital planning, and vendor contracts.
• Experience leading digital transformation projects (GIS mapping, digital inventory, or related technology implementation preferred).
• Strong project management and organizational skills; PMP certification preferred.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Financial acumen, with ability to connect project decisions to long-term P&L performance.
• Strong leadership, communication, and influencing skills; ability to work cross-functionally with sales, operations, and corporate leadership.
• Knowledge of municipal permitting, zoning, and environmental regulations impacting cemetery development.
• Technologically savvy; able to bridge operational needs with digital solutions.