Job Overview

The Jersey Crematorium is seeking a Trainee Cremation Technician to help support the Crematorium team undertake cremations while observing the Code of Crematorium Practice as laid down by the Federation of British Cremation Authorities. The candidate will support all aspects of the cremation process including the processing and disposal of the cremated remains.

Teamwork and maintaining good working relations with other Crematorium staff, Ministers, Funeral Directors, mourners, and visitors to the Crematorium is a key aspect of this role. 

To arrange an informal discussion, please contact Irene Whitewood on I.Whitewood@gov.je

Job Purpose

• To follow the code of Crematorium Practice as laid down by the Federation of British Cremation Authorities while performing cremations in a professional and dignified manner.
• To be able to cover all aspects of the cremation process including the processing and disposal of the cremated remains.
• Work as a team, have open communication and to support the Crematorium Superintendent in managing the day to day running of the crematorium site and the temporary chapel location. 

Job Specific Outcomes

• Undertake cremations observing the Code of Crematorium Practice.
• Ensure the set procedures and processes for cremation are always followed.
• Maintain good working relations with other Crematorium staff, Ministers, Funeral Directors, mourners, and visitors to the Crematorium. This includes dealing with distressed mourners etc.
• Responsible for the preparation of the Chapel for services according to denomination or non-religious requirements. This can include the arrangements of flowers and decorations and the removal or change of religious symbols.
• Assist in services as required – operating the sound equipment and moving the coffin from the catafalque either during or after a service as requested by the family and/or Funeral Director.
• Interment of cremated remains in the Rose Garden together with a location marker and family flowers if requested. Guiding mourners and family to correct location and occasionally performing the interment when required.
• Responsible for clearing away tribute flowers and the family flowers in the Rose Garden, ensuring pots & personalised pots are washed and taken away for safe keeping.
• Maintain and update records of where the cremated remains have been placed.
• During our temporary relocation, assist in the transport of coffins back to the crematorium daily when required.
• Arrange to turn the pages of one of our four Books of Remembrance over weekends and bank holidays as and when required.
• Responsible for all administration/ recording of cremation times, disposal of cremated remains, fuel consumption and updating information of cremations on the computer.
• Responsible for the opening and closing of the premises and ensure the security and safety of the Crematorium grounds.
• Ensure cleanliness of the Chapel, cremator room, and surrounding areas while adhering to our H&S policy.
• Active engagement, participation, and compliance with any other statutory responsibilities applicable to the role, as amended from time to time.

Person specification

• Ability to operate and maintain cremation equipment, ensuring that it functions correctly and safely. Physical fitness to handle the pushing & pulling movement of the trolley for the coffins, always following set procedures and risk assessments, while working in a warm and loud environment.
• Will have the ability to demonstrate good organisational skills, people skills and effectively manage and prioritise workload while under pressure. Teamwork and open communication are key.
• The postholder must possess a maturity to work in an environment which can be emotional and/ or upsetting.
• Able to work with highly complex, sensitive information on difficult and controversial issues, breaking down information to individuals/ groups including the public.
• Able to maintain a high level of confidentiality and discretion in all aspects of the role, always following the Code of Cremation Practice.
• The postholder is expected to be in possession of the Health & Recognised First Aider at Work Certificate, Fire warden Certificate and have an excellent awareness of Health & Safety, however training will be provided.

Qualifications

The postholder will have a good standard of education to a minimum of G.C.S.E. level, or equivalent, and possesses the ability to undertake study to obtain the certificate awarded by the FBCA (Federation of British Cremation Authorities) to become a fully qualified crematorium technician. This is key to the role.