ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cemetery Sexton Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Diocese of Gaylord

Sexton

Petoskey, MI · On-site

Petoskey, MI Position Summary The Cemetery Sexton is responsible for the physical care, preparation, and overall maintenance of cemetery grounds. This role ensures that burial spaces are properly ...

Diocese of Gaylord

Sexton

Petoskey, MI · On-site

Petoskey, MI Position Summary The Cemetery Sexton is responsible for the physical care, preparation, and overall maintenance of cemetery grounds. This role ensures that burial spaces are properly ...

City of Stow, OH

Seasonal Street Laborer

OH · On-site

$11.35 - $17.10/hr

... Cemetery Sexton. Job assignments include required labor involved in construction and maintenance projects, as part of a crew, performing pavement repair, crack seal, ditch digging, storm sewer ...

All JobsCemetery Sexton Jobs

Cemetery Sexton information

See salary details

$15

$27

$36

How much do cemetery sexton jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for cemetery sexton in the United States is $27.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $33.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I work at a morgue with no experience?

Cemetery sextons typically require some experience or training related to funeral services, maintenance, or groundskeeping. While prior experience at a morgue is not always mandatory, knowledge of sanitation, safety protocols, and handling of human remains can be beneficial. Certification or training in relevant areas may be required or preferred for employment.

What are some typical daily and weekly responsibilities for a Cemetery Sexton?

A Cemetery Sexton's daily duties usually include overseeing grounds maintenance, preparing burial sites, maintaining accurate burial records, and coordinating with funeral directors or families for interments. You may supervise grounds crews, ensure compliance with regulations, and respond to public inquiries about plots and services. Weekly responsibilities can include scheduling burials, updating cemetery maps, managing maintenance schedules, and budgeting for repairs or supplies. This role often involves balancing hands-on work outdoors with administrative tasks in an office setting, making it varied and rewarding for those who enjoy diverse work environments.

What are the duties of a cemetery sexton?

A cemetery sexton is responsible for maintaining the cemetery grounds, preparing graves, assisting with burial arrangements, and managing records of interments. They may also oversee the upkeep of cemetery facilities and ensure compliance with safety and legal regulations.

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

To thrive as a Cemetery Sexton, you need a solid background in grounds maintenance, recordkeeping, and basic facility management, often supported by experience in landscaping or a related field. Familiarity with cemetery management software, mapping tools, and occasionally heavy equipment operation is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and sensitivity when interacting with grieving families are highly valued. These skills ensure respectful, efficient cemetery operations and compassionate service to clients during sensitive times.

Is being a sexton a paid position?

Yes, a cemetery sexton is typically a paid position that involves maintaining the cemetery, assisting visitors, and performing administrative tasks. Compensation varies depending on the employer, location, and experience, and some sextons may also receive benefits or additional allowances.

What is a Cemetery Sexton job?

A Cemetery Sexton is responsible for overseeing the operations and maintenance of a cemetery. They coordinate burials, maintain cemetery records, and ensure the grounds are well-kept. Sextons may also assist grieving families, enforce cemetery regulations, and manage staff or equipment. Their role is crucial in preserving the cemetery's dignity and organization.

What qualifications do you need to be a gravedigger?

Cemetery sextons or gravediggers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Physical strength, the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, and knowledge of safety procedures are important; some positions may require training or certification in cemetery operations or equipment use.
More about Cemetery Sexton jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cemetery Sexton jobs? The most popular types of Cemetery Sexton jobs are:
What states have the most Cemetery Sexton jobs? States with the most job openings for Cemetery Sexton jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cemetery Sexton jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cemetery Sexton jobs are:
Cemetery Sexton jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cemetery Sexton job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 40% Part Time, and 40% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,993 per year, or $27.9 per hour.
Sexton

Sexton

Diocese of Gaylord

Petoskey, MI • On-site

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Position: Sexton
Saint Francis Xavier of Petoskey
Employment type: Part-time
Location: Petoskey, MI
Position Summary
The Cemetery Sexton is responsible for the physical care, preparation, and overall maintenance
of cemetery grounds. This role ensures that burial spaces are properly prepared, services are
supported with professionalism and respect, and the cemetery remains safe, orderly, and
well-maintained for visitors. The Sexton performs hands-on outdoor work, assists with the setup
and coordination of burial services, and serves as the point of contact for the contracted lawn
service to ensure grounds are maintained according to standards.
Key Responsibilities
Cemetery Operations
• Locate and stake gravesites for full burials using cemetery maps, lot markers, and established layout standards to ensure accuracy and proper placement.
• Locate and excavate cremation graves, ensuring correct depth, dimensions, and placement in accordance with cemetery policies.
• Prepare and install foundations for headstones and markers, including measuring, leveling, and ensuring compliance with monument guidelines.
• Set up for interments, including arranging chairs, tents, and other necessary equipment when requested by funeral homes or families.
• Assist with burial service preparation, ensuring the site is clean, safe, and professionally presented for families and visitors.
Grounds Maintenance
  • Install and remove the irrigation system seasonally, ensuring proper operation in the spring and protecting equipment during fall shutdown.
    • Conduct thorough spring cleanup, including:
    • Leaf and branch removal
    • Clearing storm debris
    • Preparing grounds for the season’s first mowing
  • Perform minor irrigation repairs, such as replacing sprinkler heads, fixing leaks, and troubleshooting water flow.
  • Manage watering schedules to support healthy turf.
  • Assist with general groundskeeping as needed.
Compliance amp; Safety
  • Ensure cemetery activities comply with all applicable state and local regulations, including burial depth, spacing, and safe operating procedures.
  • Monitor the cemetery for hazards, such as damaged trees, sunken graves, fallen markers, or vandalism.
  • Report hazards and maintenance concerns promptly to support visitor safety and protect cemetery property.
  • Follow proper safety practices when using tools, equipment, and vehicles, maintaining a safe workspace at all times.

Apply