POST TITLE: Bereavement Services Operative
SECTION: Bereavement Services
SALARY: Grade 4 £23,690 – £24,045 pa
LOCATION: Vinters Park Crematorium, Maidstone (May need to assist at Maidstone Cemetery, Sutton Road)
CONTRACT: Permanent - Full time, 37 hours per week

About the Role

Vinters Park Crematorium and Maidstone Cemetery provide a high-quality, compassionate service to families during the most difficult of times. We maintain our grounds and facilities to ensure a respectful and peaceful environment for visitors.

We are seeking a Bereavement Services Operative to join our team. The successful candidate will help support the delivery of a professional cremation and burial service for Maidstone Borough Council. Key duties include:

- Maintaining approximately 16 acres at Vinters Park Crematorium and 64 acres at Maidstone Cemetery to a high standard.
- Maintaining shrub beds and planters, pruning, mowing, and general grounds maintenance.
- Assisting with grave preparation and undertaking chapel attendant duties during funeral services (training provided).

This is a permanent, full time role (37 hours per week), starting at 7:00am Monday–Friday. The position is site-based with fixed hours due to the operational requirements of funeral services. Based at Vinters Park Crematorium, Maidstone, and to assist at Maidstone Cemetery, Sutton Road as required.

Career Development

This role provides the opportunity for a Grade 4 applicant to join the Council and be supported to develop through the career grade to a Grade 5 role, depending upon knowledge, skills, and experience, and the availability of a Grade 5 role.

About Maidstone Borough Council

Maidstone Borough Council is committed to delivering high-quality services to residents and local businesses. We foster a supportive and innovative working environment where staff are encouraged to contribute ideas, develop their skills, and build rewarding careers.

Our Offer

We provide a comprehensive range of benefits, including:

- Generous annual leave entitlement, increasing after five years' local government service.
- Three additional days’ leave over the Christmas period.
- Staff wellbeing events, including holistic therapies and outdoor activities.
- Employee Assistance Programme with confidential support.
- Local Government Pension Scheme with life cover.
- Life Assurance (three times annual salary for LGPS members).
- Season Ticket Loan and lease car salary sacrifice scheme.
- Annual flu vaccine.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Retail, leisure, and travel discounts.
- Professional fee payment (where required).
- Excellent training and career development opportunities.

About You

As a Grade 4 Bereavement Services Operative, the ideal candidate will:

- Work effectively as part of a team.
- Follow detailed procedures accurately, particularly around burials.
- Take pride in delivering high-quality, detailed work.
- Hold a full UK driving licence and have the ability to attend work at both Maidstone Cemetery and Crematorium locations.
- Prioritise health and safety at all times.
- Have horticultural knowledge (desirable).
- Demonstrate empathy and professionalism when dealing with the public, clergy, funeral directors, and colleagues.

This is a rewarding opportunity to contribute to a key frontline service in a unique and meaningful environment.

Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed against the person specification. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview.

Maidstone Borough Council is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and all staff are expected to uphold this commitment.

To apply, visit our website.

Closing Date: Sunday 8th February 2026.

Interview Dates: Tuesday 23rd February & Wednesday 24th February 2026.