Grounds Supervisor-Burial Operations

Organization Bellefontaine (www.bellefontainecemetery.org) is a 314-acre historic, non-profit cemetery. Founded in 1849 and considered one of the premier historic cemeteries in the United States, the cemetery is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is well known for its rich history and architecture, and engages the public through tours, lectures and events. Bellefontaine is also a Level III arboretum with large specimen tree collections, added to annually. The Grounds Supervisor supervises the Union Grounds Crew and daily burial operations, assists with operational planning and crew assignments, and oversees the preparation and care of burial sites. This position leads Union Grounds Crew staff during funeral services, coordinates burial logistics with internal staff and funeral homes, and helps ensure burials are conducted professionally, safely, and efficiently.

Work Location:

This is an onsite position. Remote work is not available, as regular on-site presence is required to best meet the operational needs of the cemetery. Phone calls regarding this position will not be accepted.

Reports to:

Foreman/Project Manager, General Manager, and President & CEO Position Responsibilities Burial Operations

• Supervises the Union Grounds Crew and daily burial operations to ensure all work is completed professionally, safely, efficiently, and in accordance with cemetery standards.
• Assists with daily operational planning, scheduling, and crew assignments based on burial, service, and grounds needs.
• Oversees preparation and care of burial sites, including interments, entombments, inurnments, and green burials.
• Verifies burial locations, sections, lot boundaries, and burial order details prior to excavation and service set-up.
• Lays out graves and burial spaces accurately according to cemetery records, section maps, and operational needs.
• Ensures burial sites are properly opened, prepared, finished, and returned to appropriate condition following services.
• Assists in maintaining an orderly and efficient workflow for all burial-related activities. Funeral and Service Coordination
• Leads the Union Grounds Crew during funeral services and ensures all service-related set-up and responsibilities are completed appropriately.
• Assists with organizing funeral processions, lining up vehicles, and escorting them to gravesites.
• Communicates professionally and respectfully with families, funeral directors, clergy, vendors, and guests during services.
• Oversees installation, use, breakdown, storage, upkeep, and maintenance of burial tents, chairs, turf, lowering devices, and related service equipment.
• Helps ensure gravesites are properly prepared and presented for funeral and committal services.
• Responds to service-related needs as they arise and helps resolve issues in a timely and professional manner. Crew Leadership and Workforce Management
• Supervises Union Grounds Crew employees and helps ensure compliance with union agreements, organizational policies, and departmental procedures.
• Assists with the union negotiations process, including providing operational input, attending meetings as needed, and supporting management in implementing negotiated agreements.
• Provides training and instruction on burial procedures, equipment operation, safe work practices, and service expectations.
• Monitors productivity, work quality, and daily operational needs, and communicates those needs to management.
• Promotes teamwork, accountability, professionalism, and respectful conduct among crew members.
• Assists with directing the Union Grounds Crew in support of daily burial, service, and event operations. Operational Coordination
• Coordinates burial details with Customer Relations staff, North Office staff, and funeral homes to ensure smooth and accurate operations.
• Works with horticulture staff to protect landscape features, trees, gardens, and surrounding grounds during burial and service activities.
• Assists with event set-up and coordinates with the Events and Volunteer Coordinator to help ensure events are properly set up and staffed.
• Assists with grounds support for cemetery events, public programs, tours, and related activities as needed.
• Supports the Foreman/Project Manager by assisting with burial, service, event, and other Union Grounds Crew-related operational tasks as needed.
• Supports communication between departments to help ensure burial and event logistics are completed efficiently and accurately. Equipment and Infrastructure Oversight
• Oversees safe operation of tractors, loaders, excavation equipment, burial equipment, and other tools used in daily operations.
• Oversees upkeep and maintenance of all burial and grounds equipment, including burial tents, chairs, turf, lowering devices, and related supplies.
• Ensures equipment and materials are maintained, stored, and available for burial services, grounds operations, and events.
• Assists with maintenance oversight of roads, fences, buildings, monuments, and utilities.
• Reports equipment, site, and infrastructure issues to management and helps address operational needs on the Union Grounds Crew end.
• Helps organize and participate in snow removal efforts and inclement weather clean-up to maintain safe access and support cemetery operations.
• Performs other duties as assigned in support of cemetery operations, burial services, events, and Union Grounds Crew needs. Safety and Compliance
• Maintains Safety Data Sheets.
• Ensures compliance with OSHA standards and cemetery safety procedures.
• Promotes safe work practices for all crew members, employees, volunteers, and contractors working under supervision. Skills and Experience
• 3-5 years of supervisory experience in grounds operations, burial operations, construction, or a related field; cemetery experience preferred.
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite to assist in creating reports and communicating internally.
• General knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and ability to complete reporting and other documentation electronically.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to operate gas-powered equipment, burial equipment, and heavy equipment safely and effectively.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask and manage competing priorities effectively.
• Ability to follow instructions and adapt quickly based on the operational needs of the President & CEO, General Manager, and daily operations.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment and respond to changing priorities. Education Associate's degree in construction management, operations management, landscape management, or related field preferred. Equivalent experience may be considered. Requirements
• Valid driver's license required.
• Professional appearance and communication skills.
• Ability to compose professional emails and communicate effectively with staff, families, vendors, and outside organizations.
• Must be able to regularly monitor, check, and respond to emails, as email is a primary form of communication for burial needs, event updates, and daily operational coordination.
• Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and other seasonal conditions.

Work Schedule Monday through Friday with occasional weekend or evening work depending on services, events, and operational needs. Acts as back-up for the Foreman and Project Manager/Foreman on weekends to assist with burials and other Union Grounds Crew responsibilities when needed. Physical Demands

• Ability to lift and carry up to 75 lbs. unassisted.
• Requires extended walking, bending, kneeling, standing, reaching, pulling, and other physical activity.
• Must pass a lift test and background check.

Pay $ 57,000 - $ 60,000

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$57,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

Work Location:

In person