Cemetery Lead Hand, Riverside Cemetery, Thunder Bay

Ontario Association of Cemetery and Funeral Professionals (OACFP); Northwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Benefits package after probationary

Pension/retirement plan after prob.

Training and professional development

Job summary

Ontario Association of Cemetery and Funeral Professionals (OACFP) seeks a Cemetery Lead Hand at Riverside Cemetery in Thunder Bay. You will support daily cemetery and crematorium operations, assist with burials, and help maintain a respectful, well-kept environment for families, funeral homes, and contractors.

The role emphasizes professionalism, discretion, and compassionate service during times of grief while ensuring safety and accuracy in records and procedures.

Qualifications

• Previous cemetery and crematorium operations or grounds maintenance experience is an asset.
• Experience operating tractors, loaders, excavators or similar equipment is an asset.
• Valid driver's licence is required.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and lift/carry.
• Strong organizational and communication skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Cemetery Superintendent with the day-to-day operation of the cemetery and crematorium.
• Assist with burials, interments and cremation interments as required.
• Operate and maintain cemetery equipment and grounds-maintenance machinery.
• Perform grass cutting, trimming, landscaping, snow removal, and general grounds upkeep.
• Prepare graves and maintain burial areas; restore as needed.

Skills

Valid driver's licence

Grounds maintenance

Teamwork

Outdoor work

Strong communication

Education

Post-secondary education preferred

Tools

Tractors operation

Excavators operation

Equipment maintenance

Job description

Employment Listings

Back Print

Cemetery Lead Hand, Riverside Cemetery, Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay,

Date Posted: October 19, 2026

Posting Expires: November 19, 2026

Position: Cemetery Lead Hand

Employment Type: Full-Time

Location: Riverside Cemetery

Reports To: Cemetery Superintendent

About The Position

We are seeking a dependable, organized, and compassionate individual to join our team as a Cemetery Lead Hand. This position plays an important role in maintaining cemetery grounds, supporting daily operations, and assisting with burials, interments, and cemetery services.

The successful candidate will take pride in maintaining a respectful and well-kept environment while providing professional and compassionate service to families, funeral homes, contractors, and the public.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Cemetery Superintendent with the day-to-day operation of the cemetery & crematorium.
• Assist with burials, interments, cremation interments, and disinterments as well as cremations as required.
• Operate and maintain cemetery equipment, including lawn tractors, loaders, excavators, and other grounds-maintenance equipment.
• Perform grass cutting, trimming, landscaping, snow removal, tree and shrub maintenance, and general grounds upkeep.
• Prepare graves and ensure burial areas are properly maintained and restored.
• Assist with setting and maintaining monuments, markers, foundations, and other cemetery structures.
• Maintain accurate burial and cemetery records and assist with locating grave plots.
• Ensure cemetery grounds, equipment, tools, and buildings are maintained in a safe and orderly condition.
• Follow all applicable cemetery policies, procedures, health and safety requirements, and municipal regulations.
• Assist with scheduling and coordinating cemetery services and contractors.
• Communicate respectfully and professionally with families and members of the public, particularly during times of grief.
• Provide assistance to cemetery staff and contractors as required.
• Perform other duties related to cemetery & crematorium operations as assigned.

Qualifications & Skills

• Previous experience in cemetery and crematorium operations, grounds maintenance, landscaping, construction, or a related field is an asset.
• Experience operating tractors, loaders, excavators, or similar equipment is an asset.
• Valid driver's licence required.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to perform routine equipment maintenance.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Physically capable of performing the duties of the position, including lifting, bending, standing, and operating equipment.
• Demonstrated professionalism, discretion, compassion, and respect when dealing with grieving families.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and follow established procedures.
• First Aid/CPR and applicable equipment certifications are considered an asset.
• Preference will be given to applicants with relevant post secondary education.

What We Offer

• Competitive wages
• Benefits package available after probationary period
• Pension/retirement plan available after probationary period
• Training and professional development opportunities