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- Tasks: Excavate graves and maintain cemeteries while supporting bereaved families.
- Company: Portsmouth City Council, dedicated to community service and care.
- Benefits: Stable full-time role with a competitive salary and supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in your community while working outdoors.
- Qualifications: Must be physically fit, hold an Excavator ticket, and have a full driving licence.
- Other info: Join a compassionate team and gain valuable experience in grounds maintenance.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 26000 £ per year.
Overview
Full Time • Permanent • Portsmouth
Posted 1 day ago • Closes: 10 April 2026 • 37 hours per week, Monday – Friday but may require some weekends
Salary: 250000 - 26000 £ / Year
Website: Portsmouth City Council • Local Government
Your new role
As part of the Grounds Maintenance operations team, you will be responsible for excavating graves and general maintenance for the day to day upkeep of the three Portsmouth cemeteries and other areas. Using excavators, dumper trucks and other related burial equipment, you will be responsible for locating, marking and excavating graves in accordance with the cemetery map and code of safe working practice. A mechanical excavator will be used although digging by hand may also be required. In addition, you will assist members of the public regarding locations of plots/graves and undertakers and masons in location and preparation of funerals. The role also includes maintenance of the surrounding area and of shrub beds within the cemetery, general litter picking and sweeping paths. You will ensure all machinery is stored safely and maintained whilst complying with regulations when using chemicals and substances. You will also be responsible for unlocking the cemetery gates and any other building on the site. Working as part of a team, the Parks Cemetery Grave Digger will also undertake a range of other grounds maintenance duties within Portsmouth parks and open spaces. These may include grass cutting, hedge trimming, planting of flowers and shrubs and pruning of hedges and tree base epicormic growth as well as litter and bin emptying duties.
Qualifications and experience
You will be physically fit as you will be climbing in and out of machinery, operating and maintaining machinery and may be required to do some manual digging. You will hold an Excavator ticket and ideally have an ICCM City and Guilds Safe Use of Cemetery Excavator, Cemetery Dumper and ICCM City and Guilds H & S Burial Process or equivalent. A full driving licence is essential as well as the ability to show dignity and compassion when dealing with bereaved families. With knowledge and experience in the use of large and small horticultural/agricultural machinery, you will be able to use your own initiative to ascertain what equipment/resources are needed to complete each task. With the ability to maintain and adjust machinery, you will be self-motivated, flexible with the ability to work on your own or as part of a team following instructions from supervisors.
How to apply
To apply for this job please visit searchjobs.portsmouth.gov.uk.
Parks Cemetery Grave Digger Operator in Portsmouth employer: South East Employers
Contact Detail:
South East Employers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Parks Cemetery Grave Digger Operator in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! If you can, reach out to current employees or even the hiring manager on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insights into the role and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to grounds maintenance and machinery operation. We recommend using the STAR method to structure your answers – it helps you showcase your skills effectively!
✨Tip Number 3
Dress appropriately for the interview. While it’s a practical job, showing that you respect the process with smart attire can make a great first impression. Plus, it shows you’re serious about the role!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the position. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Parks Cemetery Grave Digger Operator in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We want to see how your background fits with the role of a Grave Digger Operator, so don’t hold back on showcasing your excavator ticket and any grounds maintenance experience!
Craft a Personal Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for the role and how you can contribute to our team. We love seeing candidates who can connect their personal values with the work we do at Portsmouth City Council.
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out your application, keep your language straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your qualifications and experiences are easy to understand.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there too!
How to prepare for a job interview at South East Employers
✨Know Your Machinery
Familiarise yourself with the types of machinery you'll be using, like excavators and dumper trucks. Be ready to discuss your experience operating these machines and any relevant certifications you hold, such as the Excavator ticket.
✨Show Compassion and Dignity
This role involves interacting with bereaved families, so it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to handle sensitive situations with care. Think of examples from your past where you've shown empathy and respect in challenging circumstances.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
Since you'll be working as part of a team, prepare to share experiences that showcase your ability to collaborate effectively. Discuss how you contribute to a positive team environment and follow instructions from supervisors.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle specific tasks, like locating and marking graves or maintaining machinery. Brush up on the code of safe working practices and be ready to explain how you would ensure safety and compliance in your work.