Become a Cemetery Caretaker: Serving Those Who Served
Are you looking for a career that offers both purpose and stability? The National Cemetery Administration, under the Department of Veterans Affairs, is currently accepting applications for the position of Cemetery Caretaker in Corfu, New York. This unique role is more than just a groundskeeping job; it is a commitment to honoring the legacy of American Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Cemetery Caretaker, your days will be active and varied. Key responsibilities include:
- Grounds Maintenance: Operating tractors, riding lawn mowers, and power trimmers to ensure the aesthetic beauty of the cemetery.
- Interment Support: Digging and preparing gravesites using both hand and pneumatic tools.
- Monument Care: Cleaning and aligning headstones to maintain pristine condition.
- Seasonal Upkeep: Removing snow, applying fertilizer, and pruning shrubs throughout the facility.
Comparison: Standard Landscaping vs. Cemetery Care
| Feature | Standard Landscaping | Cemetery Caretaking |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Aesthetic growth | Dignified preservation |
| Environment | Commercial/Residential | National Shrine |
| Special Duties | Design/Planting | Interment assistance |
| Scheduling | Monday-Friday | Includes weekends/holidays |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must demonstrate the ability to handle the physical demands of the role without excessive supervision. Key requirements include:
- A valid state driver's license.
- Ability to lift weights of up to 50 lbs consistently.
- Capability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Successful completion of background and drug screenings.
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $23.44 to $27.33 per hour, reflecting the essential nature of this work.
Application Tips
Given the strict federal hiring protocols, ensure your resume is no longer than two pages. Use a professional, sans-serif font, and clearly articulate your experience with hand tools and machinery. Don't forget that volunteer experience counts—if you have served in community programs, include those details to strengthen your profile.
If you take pride in hard work and want to serve a meaningful mission, this role at the Western New York National Cemetery is an ideal opportunity. Apply today and start your career with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Why This Cemetery Caretaker Job Matters
Honor our nation's heroes by joining the Western New York National Cemetery as a Cemetery Caretaker, where your daily efforts ensure our Veterans receive the dignified, beautiful resting place they have earned.
Cemetery Caretaker Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking dedicated individuals to join the team at the Western New York National Cemetery in Corfu, New York. As a Cemetery Caretaker, you will play a vital role in maintaining the grounds of this national shrine. This position involves essential landscaping, groundskeeping, and interment support duties, requiring physical stamina and a commitment to preserving a space of profound respect for those who served our country.
Requirements for Cemetery Caretaker
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
- Ability to perform duties without more than normal supervision.
- Pass a pre-employment medical examination.
- Subject to a background and suitability investigation.
- Must undergo designated or random drug testing.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Ability to perform heavy physical labor, including lifting up to 50 lbs.
Preferred Qualifications for Cemetery Caretaker
- Demonstrated experience in professional landscaping or grounds maintenance.
- Proficiency in operating power tools and heavy machinery like tractors and riding mowers.
- Strong mechanical aptitude for maintaining and cleaning cemetery equipment.
- Ability to interpret technical instructions and safety directives effectively.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal hourly pay
- ✓Opportunities to serve Veterans and their families
- ✓Structured training for federal career development
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package availability
💡 How to Apply Cemetery Caretaker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Cemetery Caretaker Job
- Create or update your account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including your resume and any applicable supporting documents (e.g., DD-214, transcripts).
- Submit your final application package before the closing date of October 16, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume highlights relevant physical and mechanical experience clearly.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and page limits.
- Use standard fonts such as Lato, Arial, or Calibri to ensure readability.
- Check your application status regularly through your online dashboard.
- Be specific about your work hours; full-time is 35-40 hours per week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the physical intensity of this role?
The role is physically demanding, requiring regular lifting of 50 lbs, bending, reaching, and operating machinery in all types of weather conditions.
Are there specific scheduling requirements?
Yes, you must be available for weekends, holidays, and potential emergency call-backs to ensure the cemetery grounds remain properly maintained.
Job from National Cemetery Administration
The National Cemetery Administration (NCA) is charged with the sacred duty of providing a final resting place for Veterans and their eligible family members. By maintaining these national shrines, our staff ensures that every visitor experiences an atmosphere of dignity, respect, and peace. Joining this team means contributing directly to President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in the military.