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Sexton Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Sexton information

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$5

$20

How much do sexton jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for sexton in Virginia is $20.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $20.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job does a sexton do?

A sexton is responsible for maintaining and managing the upkeep of a church or cemetery, including tasks such as opening and closing the building, cleaning, and assisting with funeral arrangements. They may also oversee the grounds, ensure safety, and coordinate with clergy or funeral directors. The role often requires physical stamina and knowledge of safety procedures.

What is the difference between Sexton vs Maintenance Worker?

AspectSextonMaintenance Worker
CredentialsMay require basic certifications or experience in custodial workOften requires technical skills, certifications in HVAC, plumbing, or electrical work
Work EnvironmentTypically works in churches, cemeteries, or religious facilitiesWorks in various settings like commercial buildings, residential complexes, or industrial sites
Employer & IndustryReligious organizations, cemeteries, community centersProperty management, facilities maintenance, construction

While both roles involve maintenance tasks, a Sexton primarily works in religious or cemetery settings focusing on custodial and ceremonial duties, whereas a Maintenance Worker handles broader repair and upkeep tasks across diverse industries. The roles differ mainly in work environment and specific responsibilities, but both require basic maintenance skills and a focus on facility care.

What are sextons and what do they do?

A sexton is a person responsible for the care and maintenance of a church building and its surrounding grounds, including cemeteries. Their duties often include cleaning, minor repairs, preparing the church for services, ringing bells, and sometimes digging graves. The role can also involve administrative tasks like keeping records of burials or managing schedules for church events. Sextons play a crucial part in ensuring that the church environment is welcoming, safe, and well-maintained for congregants and visitors.

How much do sextons make?

Sextons typically earn between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the institution. Many sextons work part-time or on a seasonal basis, and some may receive additional benefits or stipends for specific duties such as maintenance or event setup.

How do you become a sexton?

To become a sexton, one typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience in maintenance or custodial work. Some positions may require knowledge of cemetery operations, basic carpentry, or operating tools, and candidates should be physically capable of performing manual tasks. Certification is not usually required but can enhance job prospects.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of a Sexton within a church or cemetery setting?

A Sexton's daily responsibilities often include maintaining the cleanliness and order of church buildings and grounds, preparing spaces for services or events, and performing minor repairs or routine maintenance. In cemetery settings, Sextons may also be responsible for grave preparation, upkeep of burial plots, and assisting families during interments. They frequently collaborate with clergy, administrative staff, and volunteers to ensure that facilities are welcoming and well-maintained. The role requires a balance of physical work, organizational skills, and sensitivity when interacting with the public.

What Is a Sexton?

A sexton is responsible for managing the care of the physical aspects of a church, which can include the parish and cemetery. In Catholic churches, they are called a sacristan. In this career, your job duties include overseeing the maintenance of the church and ground, handling the burial of caskets in the cemetery, and hiring contractors for repairs. The educational qualifications for this career vary greatly depending on the hiring church. You need to possess strong organizational skills and have experience working in a church facility.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A sexton, who typically manages cemetery maintenance and facilities, usually does not earn $4,000 weekly without specialized skills or experience. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include roles such as commercial truck drivers, sales managers, or skilled trades like electricians or plumbers, which may require certifications or apprenticeships. These positions often involve physical work, technical skills, or sales expertise and may have variable schedules or certification requirements.

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

To thrive as a Sexton, you need practical skills in facility maintenance, groundskeeping, and basic repairs, typically supported by experience in custodial or building management roles. Familiarity with equipment such as lawn mowers, cleaning machines, and safety protocols—as well as, in some cases, a valid driver's license or relevant certifications—is often required. Reliability, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help Sextons coordinate with clergy, staff, and visitors while upholding the standards of the facility. These abilities ensure that church or institutional buildings remain clean, safe, and welcoming for all who use them.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sexton jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Sexton jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Sexton jobs in Virginia? For Sexton jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sexton jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Sexton jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Sexton job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,742 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

$16 - $18/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

The Sexton provides custodial services and light maintenance for all Cathedral property. Property includes Cathedral Sanctuary and Narthex, Cathedral Educational building and Gymnasium.

Duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

Clean, dust, mop, vacuum, and polish areas on property

Sweep, mop, polish and buff all floors and carpets

Clean and disinfect restrooms and kitchen

Clean mirrors and all glass

Empty trashcans and replace plastic liners

Kitchen – wipe down counter tops, use dishwasher for items needing washing

Organize and put away all cookware, utensils, coffee supplies and other items – mop floor in kitchen

Set up and tear down tables, chairs, and equipment as needed

This is a part time position. Work schedule is 30 hours per week. The Sexton’s schedule will need to be flexible when needed to cover for evening and weekend events.

Company Description

Greek Orthodox Church with a community center and offices.