Groundskeeper

Groundskeeper / Crematorium Operator

Employer: Fernhill Cemetery

Location: Saint John, New Brunswick

Position Summary

The Groundskeeper plays an essential role in maintaining the beauty, dignity, and respectful operation of Fernhill Cemetery. This position combines cemetery grounds maintenance with the professional operation of the cemetery's crematorium, ensuring that all services are carried out safely, efficiently, and with the highest level of care and compassion.

The successful candidate will demonstrate professionalism, attention to detail, respect for families and the deceased, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

This is a full time-temporary position with the potential to become permanent.

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Primary Responsibilities

Grounds Maintenance

• Mow, trim, and maintain cemetery lawns and landscaped areas.
• Plant, water, prune, and maintain trees, shrubs, flowers, and gardens.
• Prepare graves for interments and assist with burials when required.
• Install and maintain grave markers, memorial foundations, and related cemetery infrastructure.
• Maintain cemetery roads, walkways, drainage systems, fences, and buildings.
• Operate and maintain mowers, tractors, utility vehicles, trimmers, chainsaws, backhoe, and other grounds maintenance equipment.
• Perform seasonal duties including leaf collection, snow removal, and winter maintenance.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and professional appearance throughout cemetery grounds.
• Report maintenance issues, safety hazards, and equipment repairs to management.
• Assist families with purchasing a grave.

Crematorium Operations

• Operate cremation equipment in accordance with all applicable environmental regulations, manufacturer specifications, and cemetery policies.
• Verify identity and required documentation prior to each cremation.
• Receive and respectfully transfer deceased individuals into the crematory.
• Monitor cremation processes and maintain accurate operational records.
• Process cremated remains and prepare them for return to the funeral home
• Maintain strict chain-of-custody procedures throughout the cremation process.
• Clean and perform routine maintenance on cremation equipment and associated machinery.
• Coordinate deliveries.
• Ensure the crematory remains clean, organized, secure, and presentable at all times.

General Duties

• Provide courteous and respectful service to funeral homes, families, visitors, and co-workers.
• Assist with funeral and memorial services as required.
• Follow all occupational health and safety policies and procedures.
• Wear and properly maintain required personal protective equipment.
• Participate in training programs and maintain required certifications.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.
• Occasional evening, weekend, or holiday work may be required for cremations and after-hour burials.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Class 5 driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
• Experience operating commercial landscaping or heavy equipment is considered an asset.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to perform routine equipment maintenance is considered an asset.
• Ability to safely lift up to 50 lbs (23 kg) and perform physically demanding work in various weather conditions.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion.
• Comfortable working in a cemetery environment and handling duties associated with the deceased in a respectful and professional manner.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a team.

Pay: $21.00 per hour

Benefits

• Dental care
• Extended health care
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person