1

Cemetery Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cemetery Director The Director of Catholic Cemeteries is an executive role combining pastoral ministry with multi-site management. The Director serves in the management of sacred burial grounds ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Cemetery Director information

See salary details

$29.5K

$87.6K

$136K

How much do cemetery director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for cemetery director in the United States is $87,561.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What side should husband and wife be buried on?

As a Cemetery Director, it is common practice for spouses to be buried side by side, often with the wife on the right side of the husband when facing the head of the grave, though arrangements can vary based on cemetery policies and cultural preferences. It is important to follow the specific guidelines of the cemetery and respect family wishes during burial planning.

Is it cemetary or cemetery?

The correct spelling is 'cemetery.' The word is often misspelled as 'cemetery' or 'cemetary,' but 'cemetery' is the standard and accepted form used by cemetery directors and related professionals. Proper spelling is important for official documents and communication in the field.

Do you need a plot if you are cremated?

A Cemetery Director understands that cremated remains are typically kept in an urn and do not require a burial plot. However, some families choose to inter or scatter ashes in a designated area, which may involve a plot or memorial site. The need for a plot depends on personal preferences and cemetery policies.

What are some of the common challenges faced by a Cemetery Director, and how does the role address them?

Cemetery Directors often face challenges such as managing sensitive interactions with grieving families, coordinating maintenance across large properties, and ensuring compliance with legal and environmental regulations. The role requires balancing administrative duties with supervisory responsibilities, including staff scheduling and handling of burial arrangements. Effective Cemetery Directors address these challenges by fostering a respectful, supportive environment for both families and staff, maintaining organized records, and staying up-to-date with relevant laws and best practices. Teamwork and clear communication with groundskeepers, funeral directors, and local authorities are essential to ensure smooth, respectful operations.

What's the difference between a graveyard and a cemetery?

A cemetery is a designated area for burials that is typically larger and may be located near a church or religious site, while a graveyard is usually smaller and directly adjacent to a church. Cemetery directors manage these burial sites, ensuring proper maintenance, record-keeping, and compliance with regulations.

What does a Cemetery Director do?

A Cemetery Director oversees the operations of a cemetery, ensuring its maintenance, financial management, and compliance with legal regulations. They manage staff, coordinate burials, and assist families with arrangements. Additionally, they may oversee budgeting, marketing, and long-term planning to maintain the cemetery’s sustainability and appearance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cemetery Director position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cemetery Director, you typically need experience in cemetery operations, facilities management, budgeting, and a background in either business administration or mortuary science. Familiarity with cemetery management software, record-keeping systems, and applicable state or local regulations is important, and certifications like Certified Cemetery Executive (CCE) can be helpful. Compassion, attention to detail, leadership, and strong communication skills help you support grieving families and lead staff effectively. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure respectful operations, regulatory compliance, and excellent service to the community.

More about Cemetery Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Cemetery Director jobs? Cities with the most Cemetery Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cemetery jobs? The most popular types of Cemetery jobs are:
What states have the most Cemetery Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Cemetery Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cemetery Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,561 per year, or $42.1 per hour.
Cemetery Director

$91K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Cemetery Director
The Director of Catholic Cemeteries is an executive role combining pastoral ministry with multi-site management. The Director serves in the management of sacred burial grounds, balancing the operational needs of 14 active locations and 3 inactive historical locations managed by the Diocese with a consultative role for 12 parish sites, ensuring all adhere to Canon Law, liturgical standards, and financial best practices.
Key Responsibilities
Oversight (17 Diocesan Sites)
• Manage daily operations, maintenance, and interments across Diocesan managed locations while ensuring accurate burial records, maps, and internment logs are maintained
• Direct a centralized team of Assistant Directors focused on Field Operations, Office Administration and Marketing amp; Outreach
• Standardize rules amp; regulations, and policies amp; procedures for all Diocesan-managed locations
• Oversee expansion of inventory management, including the development of new sections and capital projects
• Hire, train, and supervise cemetery personnel, ensuring compliance with safety standards and labor laws
• Serve families with compassion, assisting with burial arrangements and lot sales
• Direct landscaping, tree planting, and repairs to roads, fences, and buildings. Oversee management of equipment and vehicle maintenance and inventory.
Parish Consultative Services (12 Parish Sites)
• Act as the primary advisor to Pastors regarding cemetery operations
• Provide guidance on daily operations needs such as pricing, recordkeeping, mapping of lawns, and contracting services for hazardous tree removal, monument repairs, etc.
Financial amp; Legal Stewardship
• Prepare and manage annual operational budget
• Oversee management of Accounts Receivable balances for monies owed by families
• Calculate and communicate quarterly incentive program payments for eligible staff
• Ensure all operations adhere to local, state, and federal laws, including environmental regulations and health codes. Maintain a working understanding of NJ state cemetery laws.
• Manage liability and risk across all locations
• Review, analyze and approve vendor contracts and large-scale capital expenditures
• Ensure compliance with Diocesan Internal Audit requirements
Ministry amp; Community Witness
• Ensure the Catholic Identity of the cemeteries through sacred art and prayer, including Masses held at key locations for specific holidays and Holy days
• Ensure staff uses a consultative sales approach to provide empathetic support that aligns with the Order of Christian Funerals
Experience:
10 years of multi-site management experience, ideally in cemetery operations, funeral services, or property management
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field. Equivalent working experience will be considered.
• Leadership: Proven experience in supervising staff and managing operational budgets
• Skills: Strong communication, customer service, and computer skills (MS Office/Database Management). Proficiency in Cemetery Management Software (e.g., HMIS, PlotBox) is a plus.
• Travel: Ability to regularly travel to all locations
Salary: $91,000 - $102,500
We provide benefits which include Health, Dental and Vision insurance. As well as a defined contribution plan, life insurance, short and long-term disability. Paid holidays, vacation, sick and personal time.