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Description

OVERVIEW

The Cemetery Caretaker is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of cemetery grounds and mausoleums. This role involves performing a variety of tasks including landscaping, grave digging and closing, and assisting visitors. The ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to perform physically demanding tasks in various weather conditions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

The following duties are not exhaustive but are meant to provide a good representation of the job. Other duties may be assigned, and responsibilities may change as needed to meet the needs of the organization and the community.

Grounds and Mausoleum Maintenance: (60%)

• Mow lawns, trim hedges, and prune trees and shrubs.
• Plant flowers and maintain flower beds.
• Remove weeds, leaves, and debris from cemetery grounds.
• Apply fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides as needed.
• Maintain pathways, driveways, and parking areas.
• Clean and maintain mausoleum interiors and exteriors.
• Ensure proper lighting and ventilation within mausoleums.
• Perform minor repairs and maintenance tasks.
• Inform the Director of Operations of any major repairs that need to be addressed and coordinate with vendors to facilitate needed repairs and maintenance.
• Maintain inventory of necessary supplies, including grave liners.

Grave Digging and Closing (25%)

• Ensure correct identification of grave location before digging.
• Dig graves to specified depths using hand tools or machinery.
• Prepare gravesites for burial services.
• Assisting in lifting and placing caskets on lowering devices; loading and unloading materials; setting headstones, markers, and niche covers and aligning headstones.
• Close graves after services, ensuring proper covering and leveling.

Visitor Assistance (15%)

• Assist in the cemetery plot and crypt sales by providing information and assistance to visitors regarding grave locations and cemetery policies.
• Coordinate with the Executive Assistant to the Clergy to assist with the setup and coordination of burial services.
• Offer compassionate support to grieving families and visitors.

Requirements

EDUCATION, TRAINING & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Temple will consider any combination of education and experience that provides a strong foundation for a person to be successful in the role.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 3 years’ experience in the same or similar position, with a strong knowledge of cemetery maintenance.
• Previous experience in landscaping, groundskeeping, or a related field preferred.
• Basic knowledge of horticulture and landscaping techniques.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Passion for maintaining beautiful and respectful resting places.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Physical Requirements

• Stamina: Performing physically demanding tasks for extended periods of time.
• Use of Equipment and Heavy Machinery: Proficiency in using landscaping and grave-digging equipment.
• Heavy lifting: Ability to lift and carry heavy items up to or exceeding 100 pounds.
• Mobility: Ability to move easily around uneven terrain.
• Climate Tolerance: Capability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Visual acuity: Ability to read and interpret documents, emails, and texts.
• Hearing ability: Ability to communicate effectively via phone and in person.

Work Environment

• Flexible Hours: The role requires some flexibility, with work occasionally occurring during weekends and holidays to accommodate funerals.
• Collaborative Atmosphere: The position involves working closely with team members and other departments, fostering a collaborative and supportive work culture.
• Technology-Driven: The role requires regular use of computers, office software, and other technology tools.
• Quiet to Moderate Noise Level: The work environment typically has a quiet to moderate noise level, depending on use of machinery.
• Climate: Primarily outdoor work with exposure to various weather conditions. Occasional indoor work within mausoleums and maintenance buildings.
• Protective Equipment: Use of protective gear and adherence to safety protocols.
• Customer Service: Interaction with visitors, requiring a respectful and compassionate demeanor.

EMPLOYMENT POLICIES

Equal Employment Opportunities

Temple De Hirsch Sinai provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees and strictly prohibits any type of harassment or discrimination in regard to race, religion, age, color, sex, disability status, national origin, genetics, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, gender expression, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, and/or local laws.

ADA Accommodations

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it is the policy of Temple De Hirsch Sinai to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the Executive Director.

Salary Description

$70,000 to $90,000 annually DOE