Become a Cemetery Caretaker: Honoring Veterans in Saint Louis
Are you looking for a career that combines physical activity with a profound sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is hiring a Cemetery Caretaker to serve at the historic Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in Saint Louis, Missouri. This role is more than just a groundskeeping job; it is a commitment to maintaining the final resting place of those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
The Cemetery Caretaker performs essential maintenance duties, including:
- Operating small tractors, riding mowers, and power trimmers.
- Landscaping tasks such as transplanting shrubs, weeding, and mulching.
- Manual labor including digging graves, setting headstones, and cleaning monuments.
- Clearing debris, removing snow, and maintaining administrative areas.
| Task Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Machinery | Tractors, Blowers, Vacuums |
| Manual | Digging, Lifting, Pruning |
| Maintenance | Cleaning Headstones, Sod Removal |
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must demonstrate the potential to perform these duties effectively. Key requirements include:
- Physical Stamina: Ability to walk on varying terrain and lift up to 50 lbs.
- Documentation: A valid driver's license and U.S. citizenship.
- Background: Ability to pass a security/suitability investigation.
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $26.71 to $31.16. As a federal position, you will also gain access to comprehensive benefits that support your health and long-term financial goals.
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Federal Retirement System (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Generous leave policy (annual and sick leave).
- Job stability within the federal government.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is formatted correctly—keep it under two pages and focus on your mechanical and manual labor experience. Clearly list how you have used hand and power tools in past roles.
If you take pride in hard work and want to support our nation’s Veterans, this Cemetery Caretaker position is an excellent opportunity to make a tangible impact in the Saint Louis community.
Why This Cemetery Caretaker Job Matters
Honor those who served by maintaining the dignity and beauty of their final resting place at the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
Cemetery Caretaker Job Overview
The National Cemetery Administration is seeking a dedicated individual to serve as a Cemetery Caretaker in Saint Louis, Missouri. This role is essential to maintaining the national shrine standards that honor our nation's Veterans. You will perform vital groundskeeping and manual labor tasks to ensure the cemetery remains a place of peace, reflection, and respect for families and visitors alike.
Requirements for Cemetery Caretaker
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
- Must pass a pre-employment medical examination.
- Subject to a background and suitability investigation.
- Must be willing to undergo drug testing.
- Must complete a 1-year probationary period.
- Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and perform heavy manual labor.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Cemetery Caretaker
- Previous experience in landscaping, groundskeeping, or related trades.
- Proven ability to operate small tractors, riding mowers, and power tools safely.
- Experience in manual labor tasks such as digging and site maintenance.
- Ability to work effectively without more than normal supervision.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Federal health insurance options
- âś“Retirement savings plans including TSP
- âś“Paid federal holidays
- âś“Sick and annual leave accrual
- âś“Life insurance programs
- âś“Access to VA career development resources
đź’ˇ How to Apply Cemetery Caretaker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Cemetery Caretaker Job
- Create or log into your account on USAJobs.gov.
- Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
- Upload required documentation, including your resume and any applicable supporting documents (e.g., DD-214).
- Submit your final application package before the closing date of 09/10/2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Save your resume as a PDF to maintain formatting and page count integrity.
- Use a clear, standard sans-serif font (e.g., Lato or Arial) and 0.5-inch margins.
- Be specific in your resume; do not assume the hiring team knows your previous duties.
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience with tools and equipment described in the job duties.
- Submit your documents well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
The schedule is typically Monday through Friday but requires flexibility, including occasional weekends, holidays, and Memorial Day. Emergency overtime may be required.
What kind of physical labor is expected?
You will be lifting up to 50 lbs, bending, reaching, and operating machinery. You must be prepared to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and rain.
Do I need prior cemetery experience?
No, but experience in landscaping, construction, or heavy manual labor is highly valued.
Is this position outdoors?
Yes, you will be working outdoors in various weather conditions throughout the year.
Job from National Cemetery Administration
The National Cemetery Administration (NCA) fulfills President Lincoln’s promise to "care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." By working here, you become part of a team dedicated to providing compassionate care and ensuring every national cemetery serves as a lasting tribute to our nation’s heroes.