At a Glance
- Tasks: Support bereaved families by maintaining cemeteries and delivering respectful services.
- Company: Join Southwark, a leading local authority committed to community and diversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, a local government pension, and various staff perks.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to tackling inequalities and promoting inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in your community while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Experience in bereavement or care sectors and a passion for helping others.
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 30000 £ per year.
In your role, we want you to feel supported, challenged and rewarded. You will benefit from our family-friendly policies including flexible working, home working, and a local government pension scheme, plus many other staff benefits.You will join a motivated, driven and supportive team that strives for excellence and values its members. You will also be part of a successful and high-achieving development team that is making a real difference to the lives of residents in the borough.For more information about the wide variety of benefits you can take advantage of please visit ourStaff Benefits page.
The role
Southwark bereavement services manages three cemeteries and one crematorium.
We are currently looking to recruit a Cemetery Operative to build on the achievements of our service and assist in delivering services for the bereaved, within this role you will be part of an ambitious, successful team providing our residents with high quality, customer focussed, respectful and sensitive services.
You will have experience of working within a bereavement or care related industry in either a corporate environment or similar local authority and a willingness to undertake continuous professional and personal development.
As a Cemetery Operative, you will be required to lead on and undertake a wide variety of duties in delivering services and maintain standards within our cemeteries in accordance with the relevant statutory legislation, health and safety, local responsibilities and management of memorials.
The post holder will be required to represent the service and promote the active participation of the public, working closely with residents, community groups, charities, sponsors and third-party organisations.
About You:
- Organise plans and prioritise workloads effectively
- Be flexible and responsive to the needs of the service
- Work independently and as part of a team
- Define problems and produce innovative solutions
- Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with a wide range of people including members, senior officers, and community representatives
About Southwark:
We are the largest local authority social landlord in London, managing 55,000 homes lived in by 40% of Southwark’s residents. We are home to over 18,300 businesses including iconic London venues and social enterprises and we have a young, diverse and growing population.
At Southwark we are committed to making our borough just and fair and are taking positive action to tackle inequalities. Our residents and communities are our greatest asset and the passion we have for Southwark is shared by millions of Londoners who enjoy our outstanding cultural offer, use our hospitals and attend our universities. Our refreshed borough plan and focus on Southwark Stands Together, (which is our work with Southwark’s communities and the council’s staff to tackle racism, injustice and inequality) underpins all that we do.
Recruitment timetable
Advert Closing Date: 11.59 pm on the 19th October 2025
Interview Date: Monday 27th October 2025
As part of our commitment to inclusion, we offer guaranteed interviews for specific groups of people. To qualify, you\'ll need to meet the minimum requirements for the role, and identify with one of the below criteria:
• Members of the Armed Forces and veterans
• Are currently in care, or have previously been in care
• If you consider yourself to be disabled or if you have a long-term health condition
We are an organisation who is passionate about our people and understands that richness of diversity is a requirement to provide the best possible services to our communities. This is demonstrated through our council-wide ambitious commitment to tackle racial inequality in our communities and workforce through our Southwark Stands Together programme . We particularly welcome applications from members of the Black, Asian and ethnic minority communities to increase representation at senior management level in the Council.
Salary Range (Full time equivalent) £30,654 - £32,907
#J-18808-LjbffrCemeteries Operative in City of London employer: Southwark Council
At Southwark, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment for our Cemetery Operative role. With family-friendly policies, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to employee development, you will be part of a dedicated team making a meaningful impact in the community. Our focus on tackling inequalities and promoting diversity ensures that every team member is valued and empowered to grow within their career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cemeteries Operative in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the bereavement or care industry, attend local events, and connect with community groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching Southwark's values and recent initiatives. Show us that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you genuinely want to be part of our mission to support the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it’s speaking clearly about your experience or writing a follow-up email, being able to express yourself well is key. We want to see how you can connect with residents and community groups.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our fantastic benefits right there.
We think you need these skills to ace Cemeteries Operative in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Cemetery Operative. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Experience:If you've worked in bereavement or care-related roles before, don’t hold back! Share specific examples of your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to provide high-quality, sensitive services.
Communicate Clearly:Since effective communication is key in this role, ensure your written application is clear and concise. Avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see your skills and qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people and shows your enthusiasm for joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southwark Council
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Cemetery Operative. Familiarise yourself with the services provided by Southwark bereavement services and think about how your previous experience in the bereavement or care industry can contribute to their mission.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As you'll be working closely with residents and community groups, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully interacted with diverse groups in the past, highlighting your sensitivity and respect for others.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Problem-Solving
The role requires innovative solutions to various challenges. Think of specific instances where you've identified problems and implemented effective solutions, especially in a team setting. This will show your potential employer that you're proactive and resourceful.
✨Emphasise Flexibility and Teamwork
Southwark values flexibility and teamwork, so be prepared to discuss how you've adapted to changing circumstances in previous roles. Share experiences where you've worked independently as well as part of a team, demonstrating your ability to prioritise workloads and respond to service needs.
