Cemetery Manager

position number:
county: cross
posting end date: 2/28/26

this position is located on the grounds of the ar state veterans cemetery in birdeye, ar. This position is safetly sensitive and subject to pre‑employment and random drug testing.

all jobs offers and continued employment are contingent upon passing the pre‑employment drug‑screening, criminal background check, and adult maltreatment central registry checks (if applicable). You have the right to obtain a copy of the reports from the registries

the arkansas department of veterans affairs serves arkansas veterans, and their eligible dependents, through advocacy and education to access federal and state benefits, high‑quality long‑term nursing care, and burial honors.

job series: veteran’s cemetery – competitive

classification: cemetery manager

class code: pvc
01c

pay grade: sgs
07

salary range: $57,351 - $87,879

the cemetery manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations, maintenance, and administration of state‑managed cemeteries. This role ensures that burial services, groundskeeping, and facility management are conducted in accordance with state laws, regulations, and policies while maintaining a respectful and dignified environment for families and the community.

oversee and manage the daily operations of state‑operated cemeteries, ensuring efficient and respectful service delivery. Maintain accurate records of burials, interments, and cemetery plots in compliance with state and federal regulations. Coordinate interment services with funeral homes, families, and veterans’ organizations. Supervise and train cemetery staff, groundskeepers, and administrative personnel to ensure high performance. Develop work schedules, assign tasks, and oversee staff performance to maintain grounds, landscaping, and burial sites.

Ensure the cemetery's facilities, structures, and equipment are properly maintained and repaired as needed. Act as the primary point of contact for families, providing compassionate assistance and guidance regarding cemetery services. Plan and participate in memorial ceremonies, veterans’ services, and community engagement events. Oversee cemetery budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation to ensure cost‑effective operations. Ensure compliance with state and federal laws, including burial regulations, veteran benefits, and cemetery maintenance standards.

Prepare and submit reports, audits, and documentation related to cemetery operations and expenditures. Conduct inspections and risk assessments to ensure a safe and well‑maintained environment.

strong ability to lead and manage teams, delegate tasks, and ensure efficient workflow. Experience in staff supervision, performance evaluation, and professional development. Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interacting with families, employees, and government agencies. Ability to handle grieving families with empathy, patience, and professionalism. Strong problem‑solving skills to address concerns and provide solutions to families and staff. Ability to manage multiple tasks, set priorities, and maintain detailed records efficiently.

Strong attention to detail in legal documentation, scheduling, and cemetery mapping. Understanding of state and federal burial regulations, veteran interment benefits, and cemetery operations. Ability to ensure compliance with licensing and reporting requirements.

at least three years of experience in cemetery management, funeral services, public administration, facility operations, or a related field, including one year in a leadership capacity.

n/aother job related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the qualifications review committee.

the state of arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.