Cemetery Conservator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an age of historical preservation, the role of cemetery conservators has never been more significant.

As time moves on, our need for dedicated individuals who can protect, maintain, and restore our sacred burial grounds grows ever more pressing.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from a cemetery conservator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the unique field of cemetery conservation,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable cemetery conservator job description template, crafted for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Cemetery Conservator Duties and Responsibilities

Cemetery Conservators are responsible for the preservation and maintenance of historical cemeteries.

They work to ensure that the grounds are kept in proper condition and that historical monuments, headstones, and other features are preserved for future generations.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Inspecting and assessing the condition of cemetery grounds, monuments, and headstones
• Planning and implementing restoration and preservation projects
• Using specialized tools and equipment to clean and repair monuments and headstones
• Documenting the condition of cemetery features and tracking changes over time
• Working with historical societies, preservation groups, and community members to raise awareness about cemetery conservation
• Applying protective treatments to monuments and headstones to prevent damage from the elements
• Maintaining the landscape of the cemetery, including mowing grass, trimming hedges, and removing debris
• Ensuring that all work is done in accordance with local, state, and national preservation standards and guidelines

 

Cemetery Conservator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and meticulous Cemetery Conservator to join our team.

In this role, you will be responsible for maintaining the integrity and appearance of the cemetery, including the repair and restoration of gravestones, monuments and other cemetery features.

The ideal candidate has knowledge of preservation methods and techniques, a meticulous eye for detail, and great respect for the history and sanctity of burial grounds.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and document current conditions of the cemetery, including gravestones and monuments
• Implement preservation and conservation strategies, including cleaning, stabilizing, and repairing gravestones
• Maintain the landscape and paths of the cemetery
• Work with the cemetery manager to plan and prioritize restoration projects
• Prepare reports on conservation activities and projects
• Ensure all practices and procedures comply with local and national preservation laws and standards
• Keep updated records of all restoration and maintenance work
• Develop and implement disaster management and recovery plans
• Educate the public and staff about cemetery preservation

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a conservator, preferably within a cemetery setting
• Knowledge of preservation and conservation methods and practices
• Ability to work with a variety of hand and power tools
• Attention to detail and respect for the historical importance of the site
• Good physical health and the ability to perform manual labor
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Degree in conservation, history, archaeology or a related field is preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Training and professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cemetery Conservator
• Work Environment: Work is primarily outdoors in all weather conditions. Physical labor, including lifting and moving heavy objects, is required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Cemetery Manager or Director of Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $38,000 minimum to $55,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cemetery Conservator Do?

Cemetery Conservators are professionals who are tasked with preserving, maintaining, and restoring historic cemeteries.

Their primary responsibility is to protect and conserve the gravestones, sculptures, and structures within a cemetery.

This includes cleaning, repairing, and sometimes even replicating these elements to ensure they remain in their original or near-original condition.

Cemetery Conservators work with various tools and materials and utilize proper conservation techniques to maintain the integrity of the structures.

This can range from simple tasks such as removing moss and lichen to more complex restoration projects like stabilizing a leaning gravestone.

In addition to physical conservation, they are also responsible for documenting the condition of the cemetery and its various elements.

This could involve photography, record-keeping, and conducting historical research.

They often work closely with local authorities, historical societies, and other preservation agencies to abide by regulations and standards and may also be involved in educating the public about the significance and history of the cemetery.

Cemetery Conservators play a crucial role in preserving our historical heritage, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from these meaningful sites.

 

Cemetery Conservator Qualifications and Skills

A Cemetery Conservator should have a unique blend of technical skills, knowledge of history, and interpersonal skills to maintain and restore historically significant burial sites.

These include:

• Knowledge of historic conservation and restoration techniques to protect and preserve gravestones, mausoleums, and other cemetery monuments.
• Ability to conduct research and understand local regulations to comply with all local and national laws and regulations regarding the preservation of historic sites.
• Physical stamina to perform strenuous tasks such as moving and cleaning heavy gravestones and monuments.
• Strong attention to detail to note minor damage or deterioration that may require repair or maintenance.
• Interpersonal and communication skills to interact with families, visitors, and other stakeholders, explaining the significance of the site and the importance of conservation efforts.
• Strong problem-solving skills to identify potential conservation issues and develop strategies to mitigate them.
• Basic knowledge of landscaping and horticulture to maintain the green spaces within the cemetery grounds.

 

Cemetery Conservator Experience Requirements

Cemetery Conservators usually obtain a degree in a field related to conservation such as archaeology, anthropology, history, or museum studies.

Many conservation programs require internships, which provide practical experience in cemetery conservation.

Entry-level Cemetery Conservators typically have 1 to 2 years of experience in the field, often gained through internship programs or part-time roles in museums, historic sites, or other related fields.

They may have experience with tasks such as monument cleaning, basic repairs, and documentation.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often expand their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level Cemetery Conservator roles.

They might have experience with more complex tasks like stone consolidation, resetting monuments, or mortuary archaeology.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some managerial experience and are often involved in planning and overseeing conservation projects.

They might also participate in community outreach and education, offering workshops or lectures on cemetery preservation.

They are typically prepared for higher-level roles such as Cemetery Conservation Manager or Director of Conservation.

In addition to practical experience, Cemetery Conservators often need knowledge of safety procedures, local and national preservation laws, and the ability to use various tools and equipment.

Those with a background in historic preservation or a related field may have an advantage when applying for these roles.

 

Cemetery Conservator Education and Training Requirements

Cemetery Conservators typically require a bachelor’s degree in Historic Preservation, Art Conservation, or a related field.

These programs generally provide theoretical and hands-on training in various aspects of conservation, such as monument cleaning, repair, and maintenance; landscape preservation; and record management.

For more specialized tasks, Cemetery Conservators may need additional training in fields like masonry, horticulture, or archaeology.

While not universally required, many employers prefer Cemetery Conservators to have a master’s degree in Historic Preservation or a similar discipline, particularly for senior or managerial roles.

Certifications, such as those offered by the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (AIC), can also demonstrate a candidate’s proficiency and commitment to the field.

Beyond formal education, aspiring Cemetery Conservators should have a strong interest in history, culture, and the preservation of historic sites.

They also need excellent problem-solving skills, physical stamina, and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Finally, because much of the work of a Cemetery Conservator involves interacting with the public and other stakeholders, strong communication and customer service skills are important.

 

Cemetery Conservator Salary Expectations

A Cemetery Conservator earns an average salary of $46,710 (USD) per year.

The actual salary may vary based on factors such as years of experience, specific skills, the size and location of the cemetery, and the employing organization.

 

Cemetery Conservator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Cemetery Conservator need?

A Cemetery Conservator should have excellent attention to detail to assess the condition of gravestones and other cemetery monuments.

They should possess physical stamina as the job often involves lifting, bending, and using tools.

They also need problem-solving skills to determine the best methods for conserving or restoring these monuments.

Knowledge about historical materials and preservation techniques is crucial.

Communication skills are also important as they may need to explain their work to the public or other stakeholders.

 

Do Cemetery Conservators need a degree?

While a specific degree is not necessarily required, a background in history, archaeology, or art conservation can be beneficial.

Many Cemetery Conservators have degrees in these fields.

However, what’s most important is having knowledge and practical experience in stone conservation or similar fields.

Some Cemetery Conservators gain their skills through apprenticeships or other on-the-job training.

 

What should you look for in a Cemetery Conservator resume?

Look for experience in stone conservation or restoration, as well as any relevant educational background.

Knowledge of local history or genealogy can be a plus.

Check for physical stamina as the job can be physically demanding.

Experience in working with different types of stone and understanding of weathering processes are also important.

 

What qualities make a good Cemetery Conservator?

A good Cemetery Conservator is passionate about history and preservation.

They have a deep respect for the significance of cemeteries and the stories they tell.

They are meticulous and patient, as conservation work can be slow and detailed.

They are also physically fit to handle the demands of the job.

Good Cemetery Conservators are also problem solvers who can find the best methods to preserve and restore monuments.

 

What are the daily duties of a Cemetery Conservator?

A Cemetery Conservator’s daily duties include inspecting and assessing the condition of gravestones and other monuments, carrying out conservation or restoration work, using hand tools and chemicals.

They may also document their work through photographs and reports, and often spend time researching historical records or other resources.

Some Cemetery Conservators may also give tours or talks to the public about their work.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true essence of being a cemetery conservator.

Surprise, surprise.

It’s not just about maintaining tombstones.

It’s about preserving our history, one gravestone at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive cemetery conservator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ideal next move for creating meticulously detailed job listings or refining your resume to the highest standard.

Remember:

Every monument is a symbol of a larger history.

Let’s preserve that history. Together.

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