Job Title: Gravedigger 1 Directorate: Community & Wellbeing Department: Parks & Cemeteries Location: Throughout the Borough Reports to: Team Leader - Parks and Cemeteries Salary Scale: Scale 4 SCP 8-12 Car Status: Use of Council Vehicle PURPOSE AND FUNCTION OF THE POST The person appointed will be deployed in the Parks and Cemeteries Section throughout the Borough as instructed by the appropriate Team Leader. PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Assisting with the general upkeep and maintenance of all cemeteries (including stores, toilets, and buildings) within the Borough, and directing gravedigging staff as required. Responsible for the identification of and marking out graves prior to opening. Digging graves, both mechanically and by hand, to the required depth and filling the same, as directed. Preparation and presentation of the grave before committal and assisting in the transfer of the remains for committal. Carry out exhumation as and when required. Keeping safe and properly maintained all cemetery maps, detailed records of grave plots (including depths) and other records appropriate for the upkeep of the cemetery. Giving help and assistance to members of the public in a sympathetic and courteous manner. Using dumper and grave digging equipment to assist with grave digging duties as required. Use and maintenance of various types of machinery including compressors, pneumatic drills, pedestrian and ride on mowers. Carrying out general horticultural duties such as hand weeding, hedge trimming, rose pruning, fertiliser application and the planting of trees, shrubs and seasonal bedding. Required to work as part of a mobile team outside the Cemetery if and when required including driving duties as appropriate. Acting up for Team Leader as and when required, in line with the job description for that post. Undertake any other duties consistent with the level and nature of the post that may be allocated by the Parks and Cemeteries Manager including interchange of duties to cover leave, employee vacancies or illness. This will include carrying out of duties as outlined in lower graded positions. Will be required to work outside normal working hours, including weekends when required (this will involve gravedigging at weekends, public holidays, and late burials). This will also include being on standby for specified periods. Implement and comply with the declared policies and procedures of Ards Borough Council, attending training courses appropriate to the post. Perform all duties in a safe and proper manner and in accordance with the Councils Health and Safety policies, and the Health and Safety at Work (NI) Order 1978 and other relevant legislation. ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL PERSON SPECIFICATION The person specification provides information on the qualifications, experience, knowledge and skills required to carry out the duties of the post. The essential criteria will be used for shortlisting and as part of the selection process. QUALIFICATIONS DESIRABLE NVQ Level 2 in Horticulture or similar environmental qualification PA1 / PA6 Certificate of Competence in the application of Pesticides EXPERIENCE ESSENTIAL 1 years relevant experience working in a park, cemetery, or similar environment. Dealing with the public. DESIRABLE 2 years relevant experience working in a Parks, Cemeteries orsimilarenvironment. Previous supervisory experience Experience in administration KEY SKILLS & ABILITIES Ability to work without supervision. Understanding and appreciation of the needs of the public. Sensitivity to the differing requirements of cemetery visitors OTHER REQUIREMENTS A valid driving licence to include categories C1E. [Candidates without C1E must complete this classification within 12 months of appointment.] Recognised digger and dumper licence or must complete this within 12 months of appointment. Prepared to work outside normal hours, including weekends and public holidays A driving assessment by Council will form part of the selection process Appointment will be subject to completion of a medical questionnaire including a pre-employment Drugs and Alcohol Screening The selection panel reserves the right to enhance the shortlisting criteria to facilitate the process when necessary.