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- Tasks: Maintain cemeteries and crematoriums, including horticultural duties and grave preparation.
- Company: Join Southampton City Council's Bereavement Services team to make a positive impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a local government pension scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that enhances community spaces and supports families during difficult times.
- Qualifications: Looking for confident, self-motivated individuals with relevant experience.
- Other info: Opportunities for hybrid work and access to employee wellness programs.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
To be responsible for maintenance of cemetery, crematorium and buildings.
To be responsible for the preparation and backfilling of graves in accordance with legislation and regulations.
To help make Southampton a cleaner, safer, healthier and more attractive City.
Key Responsibilities: * To undertake a range of horticultural duties including; planting, weeding, basic pruning, turfing and seeding and small scale landscaping.
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To undertake general maintenance, labouring, grass cutting, clearing of leaves, litter and the emptying of litter bins. To be able to guide and demonstrate these duties to other assigned employees.
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To liaise with cemetery users, concerning any enquiries within the cemeteries in a sympathetic and professional manner.
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To excavate, prepare and backfill graves in accordance with specification and the correct Safe Working Procedures/Risk Assessments in operation. To include shuttering, dressing and reinstatement of site to a clean and tidy standard. To be prepared to undertake interments at short notice and to complete the task of backfilling of graves that go beyond normal working hours.
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To be able to drive between sites to ensure that all graves are excavated and maintenance is carried out in accordance with scheduled programmes.
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To assist with exhumations in accordance with legislation.
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To use appropriate hand tools, light plant, operate pedestrian and ride on machines and mini-excavators in accordance with council policy.
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To use chemical controls and irrigation equipment with appropriate training in accordance with council policy.
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To be responsible for the locking and unlocking of premises and sites, cleaning of chapels, toilets and mess rooms with the reporting of any defects as appropriate.
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To carry our minor daily maintenance and cleaning of all plant and equipment reporting of any defects as appropriate.
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To undertake other duties as appropriate to the grading of the post as required.
We are looking for a confident and self-motivated individual to undertake the role of Cemetery Operative within Southampton City Council’s Bereavement Services team.
If you feel you have the necessary background, experience and skills to undertake this role we would like to hear from you.
For further information please refer to job description and person specification.
What we can offer you:
Here at SCC we have a range of different perks and benefits, a few examples can be found below.
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A generous local government pension scheme.
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Flexible working (role dependant). Up to 13 days of Flexi Leave.
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Hybrid working arrangements (role dependant).
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25 days annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays.
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Online Benefits – salary sacrifice schemes, benefits and discounts.
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Great local transport links.
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Employee assistance programme with access to our health wellbeing and support.
For further information and details regarding the position please contact Kevin McLoughlin, Team Leader, Cemeteries on 07949 830412 or 023 8076 6405.
Recruitment contact details:
Email:
Tel: 023 8083 4033
For more information about SCC please visit
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Organisation
Cemetery Operative employer: Southampton City Council
Contact Detail:
Southampton City Council Recruiting Team
+44830412
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cemetery Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the local legislation and regulations regarding cemetery operations. Understanding these rules will not only help you in your role but also show your commitment to compliance during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience you have in horticulture or maintenance work. Be prepared to discuss specific tasks you've undertaken, as this will demonstrate your hands-on skills and ability to manage the responsibilities of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills by preparing examples of how you've interacted with the public in a professional and sympathetic manner. This is crucial for liaising with cemetery users and addressing their inquiries.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your flexibility and willingness to work outside of normal hours, especially for interments. This shows that you are dedicated and can handle the demands of the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Cemetery Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Cemetery Operative. Familiarize yourself with the key tasks mentioned in the job description, such as horticultural duties, maintenance, and liaising with cemetery users.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasize any previous experience related to maintenance, landscaping, or working in similar environments. Mention specific skills that align with the job requirements, such as operating machinery or performing manual labor.
Demonstrate Soft Skills: Since the role involves interacting with cemetery users, showcase your communication skills and ability to handle sensitive situations. Provide examples of how you've demonstrated empathy and professionalism in past roles.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Cemetery Operative position. Use keywords from the job description to ensure your application stands out and aligns with what the employer is looking for.
How to prepare for a job interview at Southampton City Council
✨Show Your Horticultural Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your experience with horticultural duties such as planting, weeding, and basic pruning. Highlight any specific projects or tasks you've completed that demonstrate your skills in maintaining green spaces.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves liaising with cemetery users, practice how you would handle inquiries in a sympathetic and professional manner. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated in sensitive situations.
✨Understand Safety Procedures
Familiarize yourself with Safe Working Procedures and Risk Assessments related to grave excavation and maintenance. Be ready to explain how you prioritize safety in your work and any relevant training you've received.
✨Be Ready for Flexibility
The job may require you to undertake interments at short notice and work beyond normal hours. Prepare to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt to changing schedules, emphasizing your self-motivation and commitment.
