Groundskeeper - Cemeteries

The City of Norfolk's Department of Parks and Recreation is currently seeking a Groundskeeper within the Division of Cemeteries.  The Groundskeeper will be responsible for cutting grass, trimming grave markers, assisting in burials, and helping keep grounds in good condition. They also participate in the grounds maintenance and landscape projects to include, but not limited to, mowing, trimming, foundation installations, tree trimming and supporting other cemetery locations  The Cemetery Fund produces revenues in excess of $2.5 million.

Norfolk's Department of Parks & Recreation is proud to announce it has been awarded national accreditation by the Commission for Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies. This ensures we will continue to provide quality recreational services that enrich the lives of Norfolk's residents.  

Departmental Hiring Salary Range:  $39,312

Essential functions include but are not limited to:

• Maintains the grounds, cleans area and assists with landscaping by cleaning sidewalks, mowing lawns, trimming trees and shrubs, sweeping, loading wood debris, feeding a chipper and using a blower to remove sawdust, chips and shavings, removing trees and stumps, operating chippers and stump grinders, raking leaves, sweeping and edging, preparing and planting flower beds, seeding the lawns, caring for plants, removing insects and picking up litter.

• Secures areas for public safety in emergencies by clearing streets, walkways, moving trash cans and loose pots, removing branches, bushes and refuse from grounds, assisting emergency personnel and being on call to respond to emergencies.

• Assists with funeral services by erecting tents, assisting with grave digging, filling in graves, disposing of funeral flowers, keeping records and preparing reports

• Provides foundation service by digging holes, mixing and pouring concrete and moving and installing markers.

• Operates and maintains vehicles and equipment by checking fluid levels, refueling, checking tire pressure, fuses and light bulbs, cleaning, adjusting and sharpening chain saws, changing and sharpening chipper blades and stump grinder teeth and greasing.

Work requires the ability to read and understand written instructions, to understand simple processes and the routine operation of machines. Level of knowledge equivalent to less than high school or equivalency.

One (1) month of experience in greenhouse or landscaping or in a related field.

• Valid Driver's License.

• Class A or B Commercial Driver's License may be required depending upon area of assignment.

• Registered Pesticide Technician (Category 60) required within twelve months of employment.

• CPR/First Aid Certification may be required depending upon area of assignment within six months of employment.

Work Location:  Various Norfolk City Cemeteries

Work Hours:  Monday to Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm. May work some weekends

Signing Bonus: This position is eligible for a one-time $5,000 signing bonus. The signing bonus will be paid in two (2) increments: $2,500 upon completion of 60 days of employment, and $2,500 upon completion of your probationary period. To receive the signing bonus, you must be an active employee in good standing.