Cemetery Operative (Grave Digger)

idverde Group; Burton upon Trent; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading grounds maintenance provider in Burton upon Trent is seeking a Cemetery Operative (Grave Digger) to ensure the respectful preparation and maintenance of cemetery grounds. The role requires experience in grave digging and grounds maintenance, along with essential digger tickets and a driving license. Candidates will be part of a diverse team, contributing to community projects while being rewarded with competitive benefits and career advancement opportunities. The position offers an hourly pay rate of £12.21-£12.50, full-time hours, and a permanent contract.

Benefits

21 days holiday plus bank holidays

Full Workwear & PPE provided

Enhanced maternity and shared parental leave

Discounts on retail, holidays, gym memberships

Two days per year for community support

Qualifications

• Ability to handle grave excavation and backfilling.
• Grounds maintenance experience preferable.
• Willingness to undergo training if not qualified.

Responsibilities

• Maintain the highest standards while working at the cemetery.
• Prepare, excavate, and backfill graves.
• Ensure cemetery grounds remain tidy and respectful.

Skills

Experience working in cemeteries/grave digging

Effective communication

Team collaboration

Education

City and Guilds Cemetery Operatives Training Scheme (COTS)

Tools

Digger tickets

Full driving licence

Job description

Description

Cemetery Operative (Grave Digger)

Location: Stapenhill Cemetery, Burton-on-Trent (reporting into Burton depot)

Hourly rate: £12.21-£12.50 per hour dependant on experience & tickets held

Contract type: Permanent, Full-time

Working Pattern: 40 hours per week. Monday-Friday 7:00-16:30. On call Saturday or Sunday 8:00-13:00 with Overtime for call outs.

About the role

idverde is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for our employees and clients. We are looking for an dedicated Cemetery Operative who will consistently maintain the highest standards while operating in a professional, respectful, and compassionate manner while working at Stapenhill Cemetery. In this role, you will be responsible for a range of tasks, including the preparation, excavation, backfilling of graves. Additionally, you will oversee the general maintenance of the cemetery grounds, ensuring they remain tidy, well-kept, and respectful for visitors and loved ones. Your work will play a key role in supporting the smooth operation of the cemetery while upholding the dignity and care that the services provide.

Requirements

• Experience working in cemeteries/grave digging.
• Grounds maintenance experience preferable.
• Digger tickets essential.
• Full driving licence essential.
• City and Guilds Cemetery Operatives Training Scheme (COTS) is preferable – if not, we would be willing to put the right candidate through this course.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work well as part of a team.

Why join us?

As the UK’s leading grounds maintenance and landscape creation provider, no two projects are ever the same - and neither are our people. That’s why we’re committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive culture where everyone can thrive.

What we offer

• We offer career advancement and development opportunities through our bespoke apprenticeship programmes, our extensive in-house training academy, and coaching and mentorship.
• Join a diverse and inclusive workplace where you can collaborate with passionate and talented individuals.
• Contribute to projects that make a real difference in the community and environment.
• We recognise and reward your hard work with our wide-ranging benefits package designed to prioritise your wellbeing, support life choices, and help in both good and challenging times.

Benefits

• 21 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Full Workwear & PPE provided.
• Enhanced maternity and shared parental leave.
• Support for personal and professional challenges.
• Discounts on retail, holidays, gym memberships, and more.
• Secure your future - resources to manage your finances.
• Colleague of the month and annual awards.
• Two days per year to support a cause of your choice.
• Comprehensive resources and support.

About idverde

We are Europe's largest provider of grounds maintenance services and landscape creation, in the UK alone we’re a community of over 3,000 passionate colleagues shaping the future of the green industry.

At idverde, we understand what it means to grow. Our history dates back to 1919, and today, with a turnover of £250 million, we’re more than just a company - we’re a force for positive change. We offer a range of services to create, maintain, and manage landscapes across the UK.

Grow with us, and together we’ll create a greener future for all.