Crematorium Operative (Grade 13)

Position: Crematorium Operative
Location: Wellington New Road, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 5NE
Start Date: ASAP
Contract Duration: 1+ Months
Working Hours: 37 Hours Per Week
Pay Rate: £ 13.47 Per Hour
Job Reference: OR99267


Job Purpose
The Crematorium Operative will be responsible for the maintenance, upkeep, and safe operation of cemetery grounds and associated facilities. The role includes grounds maintenance, grave preparation, equipment handling, and providing respectful support to bereaved families and visitors.
The postholder will ensure that all cemetery areas are maintained to a high standard, in a safe, clean, and dignified condition, in line with Somerset Council policies and health & safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities
1. Grounds Maintenance

• Carry out general groundskeeping including grass cutting, edging, weeding, planting, and pruning.

• Maintain flower beds, raised beds, shrubs, planters, and landscaped areas.

• Undertake seasonal maintenance such as leaf clearance, snow/ice removal, and hedge cutting.

• Remove litter and ensure cemetery pathways, driveways, and perimeter areas remain clean and safe.

2. Grave Preparation & Burial Support

• Carry out grave digging, excavation, backfilling, and levelling in line with safety procedures.

• Assist with preparation for burials and ensure sites are ready in a timely and respectful manner.

• Liaise with funeral directors and families where required to ensure smooth burial arrangements.

3. Equipment Use & Maintenance

• Operate and maintain groundskeeping equipment including mowers, strimmers, and hand tools.

• Report faults, damages, or safety issues to supervisors promptly.

• Maintain equipment logs and assist with storage and workshop organisation.

• Ensure machinery is cleaned, serviced, and stored safely.

4. Health & Safety Compliance

• Follow all health and safety regulations and cemetery operational procedures.

• Safely handle chemicals, fertilisers, and hazardous materials.

• Ensure safe working practices to protect self, colleagues, and visitors.

5. Public Interaction & Customer Service

• Provide respectful and professional support to bereaved families and visitors.

• Respond sensitively to enquiries and assist visitors where appropriate.

• Maintain dignity and professionalism in all cemetery interactions.

6. General Duties

• Support additional maintenance tasks when weather conditions affect normal duties.

• Work flexibly as required to meet operational needs of the service.

• Comply with Somerset Council policies and procedures at all times.

Person Specification
Essential Criteria
Skills & Knowledge

• Basic knowledge of horticulture, landscaping, or grounds maintenance

• Ability to carry out manual labour in all weather conditions

• Good communication skills and ability to deal sensitively with the public

• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain high standards

• Basic IT literacy

Experience

• Ability to use grounds maintenance equipment (training provided if needed)

• Experience working outdoors in physical/manual roles (preferred but not essential)

• Experience in a public-facing role (preferred)

Other Requirements

• Full UK driving licence

• Flexibility to work occasional weekends/holidays if required

• Ability to work safely and follow instructions

• Physically fit and able to perform heavy manual tasks

 
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