Become a Cemetery Caretaker Supervisor at Willamette National Cemetery

Are you looking for a career that combines technical leadership with a profound sense of purpose? The National Cemetery Administration, under the Department of Veterans Affairs, is looking for a Cemetery Caretaker Supervisor to join the team at the Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon. This is a unique opportunity to serve our nation by ensuring the final resting places of our Veterans are maintained with the highest standards of dignity and respect.

Job Responsibilities

As the Foreman, you are responsible for the daily operations of the cemetery. Your primary duties include:

Oversight of interment, excavation, and finalization of all gravesites.
Managing the maintenance of grounds, facilities, and landscaping.
Supervising a team of staff including gardeners, equipment operators, and caretakers.
Ensuring all work complies with safety standards and technical specifications.
Coordinating with other management staff to keep the cemetery operational during holidays and weekends.

Requirements

To succeed in this role, you must demonstrate the potential to supervise grounds maintenance work. Key requirements include:

Valid, REAL ID compliant state driver's license.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Physical ability to lift 50 lbs and navigate varied terrain.
Commitment to working in all weather conditions.

Skills Comparison Table

Skill Category	Key Competencies
Technical	Equipment Operation, Landscaping, Plumbing basics
Leadership	Personnel Supervision, Workflow Management, Safety Compliance
Operations	Grave Excavation, Blueprint Reading, Facility Maintenance

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $45.89 to $53.54 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

Working for the VA offers more than just a paycheck. You become part of a mission-driven organization that values your service. Employees are eligible for comprehensive federal benefits, including health insurance, retirement options, and the opportunity for career growth within the government.

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to reflect the specific trade experience mentioned in the job post.
Detail Your Work: Be very specific about your previous duties. If you supervised a team, say exactly how many and what their roles were.
Check Your Documents: Before clicking submit, ensure you have your DD-214 and any required certificates attached.

Serving as a Cemetery Caretaker Supervisor is an opportunity to make a tangible impact. Join the team at Willamette National Cemetery and help us honor America’s Veterans every day.

Why This Cemetery Caretaker Supervisor Job Matters

Lead the team that preserves our nation's history: Join the Willamette National Cemetery as a Cemetery Caretaker Supervisor and honor our Veterans with your dedication and leadership.

Cemetery Caretaker Supervisor Job Overview

The National Cemetery Administration is seeking a dedicated and experienced Cemetery Caretaker Supervisor for the Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon. This vital role oversees the daily interment and maintenance operations that ensure our national shrines remain places of dignity and respect. You will lead a diverse team responsible for landscaping, groundskeeping, and interment processes, serving as a key operational leader within the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Requirements for Cemetery Caretaker Supervisor

Possess and maintain a valid, REAL ID compliant state driver's license.
Ability to perform job duties without the need for more than normal supervision.
Demonstrated experience or training in landscaping, groundskeeping, or facility maintenance.
Ability to safely operate and supervise the use of heavy machinery, power tools, and hand tools.
Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs independently and handle heavier items with assistance.
Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and snow.

Preferred Qualifications for Cemetery Caretaker Supervisor

Previous experience in a leadership or supervisory capacity within a trades or maintenance environment.
Proficiency in reading blueprints and interpreting technical specifications.
Experience managing cemetery operations, including interment excavation and grave site maintenance.
Strong technical skills related to facility, plumbing, or groundskeeping equipment operations.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly pay range
✓Federal career advancement opportunities
✓Health and wellness support through the Department of Veterans Affairs
✓The opportunity to participate in a meaningful national mission
✓Structured federal employment benefits package

💡 How to Apply Cemetery Caretaker Supervisor Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Cemetery Caretaker Supervisor Job

Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS website.
Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your relevant trades experience (maximum 2 pages).
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Attach all required documentation, including DD-214, transcripts, or other eligibility evidence.
Submit your application package before the closing date of September 8, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience in hours per week to receive full credit.
Be specific; do not assume the hiring manager understands your previous duties without clear descriptions.
Double-check that all required documents are attached before submitting, as missing items cannot be requested later.
Use your USAJOBS dashboard to monitor your application status regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of this position?

The supervisor is responsible for the daily operations of the cemetery, including interments, excavation, grounds maintenance, and leading a team of various wage-grade employees.

Is this a supervisory role?

Yes, you will supervise a variety of staff members, including cemetery caretakers, equipment operators, and maintenance workers.

Will I be required to work weekends?

Yes, as the cemetery must remain operational, some weekend and holiday work is required to meet the needs of the mission.

Do I need prior cemetery experience?

*A: While helpful, it is not strictly required. We look for evidence of leadership in landscaping or related trades.*

What is the physical demand of this job?

*A: It is a physically active role requiring the ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors in all seasons.*

Job from National Cemetery Administration

The National Cemetery Administration (NCA) is dedicated to honoring our nation's Veterans. We fulfill President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served and their families. Every employee at the NCA contributes to a mission that inspires visitors and provides lasting tributes to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.