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Grave Cleaner Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Grave Cleaner information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do grave cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for grave cleaner in Springfield, IL is $14.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $15.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Grave Cleaner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Grave Cleaner, you need attention to detail, physical stamina, and basic knowledge of cemetery protocols, typically acquired through on-the-job training. Familiarity with cleaning tools, landscaping equipment, and sometimes basic record-keeping systems is important. Reliability, respectfulness, and discretion are standout soft skills for handling sensitive environments and interacting with grieving families. These skills ensure gravesites are maintained with dignity and professionalism, upholding cemetery standards and providing comfort to visitors.

How much do gravestone cleaners get paid?

Gravestone cleaners typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the work. Some may charge a flat fee per headstone or work as independent contractors, which can affect overall earnings.

Can you make a living cleaning headstones?

A grave cleaner or headstone cleaner can make a living by providing specialized cleaning and restoration services for cemeteries and families. Income depends on factors such as experience, reputation, and the number of clients, with some professionals working full-time and earning a steady income. Certification in conservation techniques and proper use of cleaning tools can improve job prospects and earnings.

What are grave cleaners?

Grave cleaners are professionals who maintain and clean gravesites, headstones, and surrounding areas in cemeteries. Their work typically includes removing debris, washing and gently scrubbing headstones, trimming grass, and sometimes restoring inscriptions or repairing minor damage. Grave cleaners help preserve the dignity and appearance of gravesites, ensuring they remain respectful and well-kept for visitors. This service is often sought by families who are unable to regularly maintain loved ones' graves due to distance or other limitations.

What is the difference between Grave Cleaner vs Cemetery Groundskeeper?

AspectGrave CleanerCemetery Groundskeeper
CertificationsNone required, but safety training preferredOften requires groundskeeping or horticulture certifications
Work EnvironmentPrimarily at gravesites, focusing on cleaning and maintenanceBroader outdoor cemetery areas, including landscaping and general upkeep
Job DutiesCleaning gravestones, removing debris, maintaining grave sitesLawn care, planting, maintaining pathways, and overall cemetery appearance

While both roles involve outdoor cemetery work, Grave Cleaners focus on cleaning and maintaining individual graves, whereas Cemetery Groundskeepers handle broader landscaping and grounds maintenance. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within cemetery services.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Grave Cleaner, and how can they be managed effectively?

Grave Cleaners often work outdoors in varying weather conditions, which can make the job physically demanding. Managing respect for the site and interacting with visitors or grieving families requires sensitivity and professionalism. Additionally, tasks may involve handling delicate headstones and working with cleaning agents, so attention to detail and following safety protocols are essential. Building a reliable routine and maintaining clear communication with cemetery management can help address these challenges and ensure respectful, high-quality service.

How do you become a gravekeeper?

To become a gravekeeper, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require training in cemetery maintenance, safety procedures, and equipment use. Some positions prefer experience in groundskeeping or related fields, and certifications in safety or horticulture can be beneficial.

How much do graveyard caretakers make?

Graveyard caretakers, also known as cemetery workers or groundskeepers, typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. The job often requires physical labor, knowledge of landscaping tools, and adherence to safety protocols.
What are popular job titles related to Grave Cleaner jobs in Springfield, IL? For Grave Cleaner jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Grave Cleaner jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Grave Cleaner job openings:
Grave Cleaner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grave Cleaner job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,511 per year, or $14.7 per hour.
Maintenance Worker

Maintenance Worker

Service Corporation International

Springfield, IL • On-site

$18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Service Corporation International rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 93 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 8 rated funeral services

Job description

Our associates celebrate lives. We celebrate our associates.
Maintains the overall appearance of cemetery, mausoleum and/or funeral home locations, which may include: maintenance and grounds keeping, locating grave sites, digging graves, installing crypt faces, conducting interments, entombments and inurnments, and simple repairs and maintenance tasks.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Cuts grass, maintains lawn, trims around trees, walkways and memorial markers, lays sod, moves and removes flowers to and from chapel and graveside
  • Clears debris and maintains drives and walkways which may require snow removal depending on location
  • Erects tents, canopies and arranges chairs for graveside ceremony
  • Assists with setup for openings and closings for interments, entombments and inurnments
  • Arranges chapel for services
  • Prepares crypts for entombments
  • Under supervision, may operate backhoe to dig graves without damage to surrounding vaults, markers or monuments
  • Installs grave markers, bronze memorials, crypt faces, etc.
  • Maintains and repairs existing markers and other cemetery features
  • Maintains, services, cleans and properly stores equipment
  • General maintenance of vehicles
  • Cleans and maintains facility to include performing minor repairs, painting, etc.
  • Observe safety rules and ensure compliance with the operating procedures of corporate, federal, state and local regulations, including OSHA regulations and Safety and Environmental guidelines.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education
  • High school education or equivalent or relevant work experience

Experience
  • Minimum 6 months of relevant experience

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Ability to operate hand-held tools and equipment, including, but not limited to a shovel, pick, rake, sledge hammer, lawn mower, weed trimmer and leaf blower
  • Ability to accurately use measuring devices (i.e. tape measure, yard-stick, etc.)
  • Ability to walk and stand for long periods of time
  • Ability to lift up to 150 with equipment assistance
  • Ability to push and pull up to 300 lbs.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with associates, contractor personnel and client families
  • Ability to work in extreme weather conditions
  • Ability to adapt to changing work schedules and multi-tasking
  • Basic computer skills to enable retrieving and responding to email communications

Compensation:
$18.50/hr
Benefits:
Medical * Dental * Vision * Flexible Spending Accounts (health care and dependent care) * Health Savings Account with Company Contribution * Sick Leave * Short-Term Disability * Long-Term Disability * Life Insurance * Voluntary Accidental Death or Dismemberment Insurance * Dependent Life Insurance * SCI 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Company match * Employee Assistance Program
Postal Code: 62703
Category (Portal Searching): Cemetery Maintenance
Job Location: US-IL - Springfield

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