GROUNDSKEEPER / HEAVY EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION

Under general supervision, performs a variety of tasks related to the burial of human remains; performs general unskilled and semi-skilled grounds maintenance, landscape gardening, facilities maintenance and repair work.

Distinguishing Characteristics: Groundskeeper / Heavy Equipment Maintenance and Operation is a journey-level position specializing in the maintenance, record keeping, and operation of equipment. The incumbent works under minimal supervision and receives only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise. This position is distinguished from the Grounds Foreman, who is responsible for infrastructure and facilities oversight and provides the technical expertise required of that role.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Grounds Maintenance & Operations

• Maintain cemetery grounds, including mowing, trimming, irrigation, and debris removal
• Prepare gravesites for interment according to district protocol, including layout, excavation, and restoration
• Set up and break down for burial services and special events
• Maintain roads, walkways, and infrastructure to ensure safe public access

Heavy Equipment Operation

• Safely operate heavy and light equipment, including backhoes, dumpers, dump trucks, edgers, mowers, and utility vehicles
• Perform grading, trenching, hauling, and site preparation work
• Conduct pre- and post-operation inspections to ensure safe working condition
• Follow all safety protocols, traffic control practices, and regulatory requirements

Equipment Maintenance & Documentation

• Perform routine preventative maintenance on all grounds equipment (e.g., oil changes, lubrication, blade sharpening, filter replacement)
• Identify mechanical issues and coordinate repairs or servicing as needed
• Maintain tools and equipment in clean, safe, and operational condition
• Track equipment usage and maintenance schedules
• Document equipment inspections, maintenance, and repairs
• Ensure records are complete, organized, and compliant with District policies and applicable regulations

Customer & Team Support

• Interact professionally and respectfully with families, funeral service providers, and the public
• Assist with directing visitors and providing general information
• Work collaboratively with team members to meet operational needs
• Support special events and community activities as needed

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS:

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• 2–4 years of grounds maintenance experience, preferably in a cemetery, park, or similar setting
• Demonstrated experience operating and maintaining heavy equipment

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of safe operation and maintenance of heavy equipment and tools
• Basic mechanical skills for equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in recordkeeping
• Ability to perform physically demanding work in various weather conditions
• Understanding of workplace safety standards and practices
• Ability to communicate effectively and maintain professionalism in sensitive environments

ENVIRONMENTAL & FUNCTIONAL FACTORS:

Incumbents in this class are expected to work inside or outside of buildings; to work in the heat or in the cold; to work either alone or closely with others; be able to reach above shoulders; have enough dexterity to manipulate a variety of landscaping or maintenance tools and equipment; be able to move about including bending, stooping, squatting, twisting, reaching, working on irregular surfaces, and kneeling for significant periods of time; be able to hear well; be able to see things up close or far away and have depth perception; to drive a motor vehicle; to frequently lift and carry objects weighing up to fifty pounds; occasionally lift and carry objects weighing more than fifty pounds; work with machinery; work with, around or in water; work on or below the ground; work on irregular surfaces; and work under continued exposure to the sun.

This position is 40 hours per week, with occasional weekend and holiday work depending on burials and outreach events. Starting pay is dependent on relevent experience.

Pay: $22.00 - $32.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid jury duty
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person