Cemetery Grounds and Maintenance Worker/Backhoe Operator

The Cemetery Grounds & Maintenance Worker/Backhoe Operator assists in the daily maintenance of facilities and grounds in the cemetery and assists in the setup, lowering and interment of human remains, including proper opening and closing of graves using a backhoe; ensuring no damage is done to markers, vases, and spaces in locations where the backhoe is being used. The Cemetery Ground & Maintenance Worker/Backhoe Operator performs the initial verification of the burial space location before grave is dug. The Cemetery Ground & Maintenance Worker/Backhoe Operator uses all types of small engine equipment, including hand mowers, trimmers and weed eaters as well as a backhoe. This position does routine maintenance checks on equipment and is responsible for safe operation.

Essential Job Functions

• Mow lawns, trim markers, edge roads and pathways, assist with sprinkler repair, paint and cleans cemetery grounds, if necessary.
• Assist in the set up, opening, interment/entombment, closing of burial sites.
• Provide general maintenance of the cemetery grounds and buildings in a professional and safe manner and in accordance with guidelines established by DOPCCFH.
• Ability to operate hand-held tools and equipment, including, but not limited to a shovel, pick, rake, sledgehammer, lawn mower, weed trimmer and leaf blower.
• Install memorials i.e., granite and bronze headstones, bronze lettering, niche plates.
• Check location and lay out grave prior to excavation.
• Responsible for excavating, backfilling, and compacting graves.
• Sets outer containers, i.e. vaults and grave boxes.
• Assist in grave setups and lowering devices.
• Assist in proper layout of crypts and niches.
• Performs routine checks and daily maintenance of all equipment.
• Periodically assists in the development of new areas and maintenance of existing locations.
• Act as back up responder for after hours emergencies such as alarm, water line breaks, etc.

Ability and Skills (Classification is typically expected to possess or show potential of satisfactory development when placed in the job.)

• High attention to detail and accuracy; highly organized.
• Ability to effectively communicate with others and to work harmoniously with related personnel.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work.
• Ability to walk and stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to lift up to 100 lbs.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to operate small equipment.
• Knowledge on the operation/maintenance of a backhoe and tractor.
• Ability to read cemetery maps.
• Ability to write read and write English.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends.
• Knowledge of or willingness to learn iPad technology necessary for cemetery workflow.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must have a valid Arizona driver's license
• Over the age of 21