Cemeteries Operative, Whitehill Service Centre/Adambrae and Blaeberryhill Cemeteries, 495.11 - WEL09 in Bathgate

Cemeteries Operative, Whitehill Service Centre/Adambrae and Blaeberryhill Cemeteries, 495.11 - WEL09 in Bathgate

Bathgate Full-Time 24000 - 33600 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
West Lothian Council

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our team to maintain cemeteries and provide essential burial services.
  • Company: Be part of West Lothian Council, serving the community across 32 cemeteries.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a shift allowance, regular training, and a supportive work environment.
  • Other info: Work hours are Monday to Saturday, with a focus on community service.
  • Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while working in a diverse and inclusive team.
  • Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; just a willingness to learn and support others.

The predicted salary is between 24000 - 33600 £ per year.

Job Advert

Cemeteries Operatives are paid a shift allowance of 7.5%, working a two-week cycle of Mon to Thu, followed by Mon to Sat (half day). Hours are 08:00 to 16:00 weekdays, 08:00 to 12:30 Sat.

We are keen to employ a diverse workforce that reflects the people of Scotland. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly from groups currently under-represented, including people with disabilities, those from minority ethnic communities or from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds

The Cemeteries Team is part of West Lothian Council\'s Nets, Land and Countryside service and provides cemetery maintenance and burial services across 32 cemeteries and churchyards.

The role of the Cemeteries Operative is to deliver all aspects of the cemetery service across cemeteries, churchyards, and war memorials. The post holder will be responsible for all cemeteries routine operations including grounds maintenance, burials, and maintenance of tools/plant/vehicles as required.

The postholder will be required to ensure compliance with all relevant guidance, procedures, and legislation related to the service. This includes regular training. This postholder may be required to deal with bereaved families at their most vulnerable time, including where the council has failed to provide an acceptable level of service.

The post reports to the Cemeteries Squad Leader.

The post is contracted to 36 hours per week.

This operational role requires the postholder to be site based at either Blaeberryhill Cemetery (Whitburn) or Adambrae Cemetery (Livingston), and includes extensive travel throughout West Lothian.

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Cemeteries Operative, Whitehill Service Centre/Adambrae and Blaeberryhill Cemeteries, 495.11 - WEL09 in Bathgate employer: West Lothian Council

West Lothian Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that all employees feel valued and respected. With opportunities for regular training and professional development, the Cemeteries Operative role provides meaningful work in maintaining the dignity of our cemeteries while serving the community. Located in the heart of West Lothian, employees benefit from a structured work schedule with a shift allowance, fostering a healthy work-life balance.

West Lothian Council

Contact Details:

West Lothian Council Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Cemeteries Operative, Whitehill Service Centre/Adambrae and Blaeberryhill Cemeteries, 495.11 - WEL09 in Bathgate

Get Your Hands Dirty

In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!

Join Trade Associations

Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!

Showcase Your Work Online

Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.

Apply Directly and Follow Up

Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!

We think you need these skills to ace Cemeteries Operative, Whitehill Service Centre/Adambrae and Blaeberryhill Cemeteries, 495.11 - WEL09 in Bathgate

Grounds Maintenance
Burial Services Knowledge
Tool and Equipment Maintenance
Health and Safety Compliance
Customer Service Skills
Empathy and Compassion
Teamwork

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch West Lothian Council's eye.

Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at West Lothian Council. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.

Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!

Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!

How to prepare for a job interview at West Lothian Council

Master the Hands-On Skills

In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!

Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand

Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.

Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices

Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.

Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills

When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at West Lothian Council.