Serving with Honor: Become a Cemetery Caretaker in Bourne, MA
Working for the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) is more than just a job; it is a profound service to those who have served our nation. As a Cemetery Caretaker in Bourne, Massachusetts, you play a pivotal role in ensuring that the final resting places of our Veterans remain dignified, peaceful, and impeccably maintained.
Job Responsibilities
As a Cemetery Caretaker, your daily tasks are diverse and essential to the operation of the cemetery. Responsibilities include:
- Operating small tractors and riding lawn mowers.
- Digging and preparing gravesites with precision.
- Maintaining landscaping, including weeding, mulching, and pruning shrubs.
- Assisting with the placement of caskets and urns.
- Cleaning headstones and maintaining administrative grounds.
- Removing snow and ice to ensure accessibility year-round.
Requirements
To succeed in this role, you must be a U.S. citizen capable of performing heavy manual labor. You must also hold a valid driver's license and demonstrate proficiency in using power tools and groundskeeping equipment. Applicants must be prepared for a 1-year probationary period and potential drug screening.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Effort | Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs |
| Experience | Landscaping or manual labor background |
| License | Valid State Driver's License required |
| Availability | Willingness to work weekends and holidays |
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this position ranges from $28.61 to $33.38 per hour. Employees enjoy the benefits of federal employment, which often include competitive health insurance, retirement options, and the deep personal satisfaction of contributing to a national mission.
Application Tips
- Keep it short: Federal resumes are now limited to two pages.
- Be specific: Clearly state your previous experience with tools and equipment.
- Formatting: Use a standard font and save your document as a PDF.
If you have a strong work ethic and a desire to serve your country by maintaining sacred grounds, apply today to become a Cemetery Caretaker in Bourne, Massachusetts.
Why This Cemetery Caretaker Job Matters
Honor our nation's heroes by maintaining the sacred grounds where they rest. Join the National Cemetery Administration in a mission of dignity, respect, and service.
Cemetery Caretaker Job Overview
The National Cemetery Administration (NCA) is seeking a dedicated Cemetery Caretaker for the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, Massachusetts. In this role, you will perform essential groundskeeping and manual labor duties to ensure the cemetery remains a beautiful and respectful tribute to our Veterans and their families.
Requirements for Cemetery Caretaker
- U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
- Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
- Must be able to perform heavy physical labor, including lifting up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and precipitation.
- Must successfully pass a background and suitability investigation.
- May be subject to pre-employment medical examinations and drug testing.
- Compliance with Selective Service registration requirements for applicable males.
- Commitment to a 1-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Cemetery Caretaker
- Demonstrated experience in groundskeeping, landscaping, or related trades.
- Proven proficiency in the safe operation of power tools, hand tools, and heavy machinery.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Experience in reading and interpreting technical instructions or specifications.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly federal compensation.
- ✓Opportunities to serve in a meaningful, mission-driven environment.
- ✓Access to comprehensive federal employee benefits packages.
- ✓Professional development within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
💡 How to Apply Cemetery Caretaker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Cemetery Caretaker Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages.
- Upload all required documentation, including proof of veterans' preference if applicable.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the August 11, 2026, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Save your resume as a PDF to ensure formatting remains intact.
- Keep your resume concise—federal guidelines now limit resumes to two pages.
- Clearly detail your relevant experience, including hours worked per week for part-time roles.
- Ensure your responses in the questionnaire match the experiences listed in your resume.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work environment like?
The role is physically demanding and performed primarily outdoors, exposing you to all weather conditions, noise, and dirt.
Is a driver's license required?
Yes, maintaining a valid state driver's license is a core requirement for this position.
Will I have to work on weekends?
Yes, due to the nature of the mission, weekend work and federal holidays are occasionally required.
Is there a physical examination?
Yes, because of the physical nature of the work, you may be subject to a pre-employment medical evaluation.
Job from National Cemetery Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs, specifically the National Cemetery Administration, is committed to providing compassionate care. The mission is to honor Veterans with lasting tributes that commemorate their service to our nation. Every staff member contributes to creating an environment that inspires visitors to appreciate the sacrifice of our Nation's heroes.