Position Summary
Under the general supervision of the Public Works Superintendent, the Cemetery and Parks Operations Supervisor is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing all departmental operations, including maintenance, repair, and construction activities. This role ensures the effective use of resources, timely project completion, and adherence to safety and regulatory standards while overseeing field operations and personnel.
In addition to supervisory duties, the Operations Supervisor plays a direct role in daily operations, actively participating in frontline tasks to support team performance and operational efficiency. The position includes oversight of Funeral Service operations and fleet management, requiring strong leadership, organizational skills, and a commitment to service excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Note: Duties listed are illustrative and not exhaustive.
- Perform hands-on administrative, supervisory, and manual work in the operation and maintenance of town cemeteries, parks, recreational assets, and other public grounds; actively assist with Public Works and Transfer Station operations as needed.
- Actively plan, lay out, perform, and supervise daily departmental operations and projects in accordance with the Superintendent’s work orders while participating directly in fieldwork.
- Establish daily and long‑range work priorities, including routine cyclical tasks and those arising from public complaints or work orders; adjust assignments in the field to meet changing operational needs.
- Lead crews in the field and operate heavy and specialized equipment (e.g., backhoe, front‑end loader, mini excavator, pneumatic and hydraulic tools, chainsaws, grass and tree trimmers, lawn mowers, burial equipment, etc.) for repair, maintenance, and construction activities.
- Direct and participate in snow and ice control, spring cleanup, and other seasonal operations, including emergency responses outside of normal working hours.
- Assist with and directly participate in the planning and execution of funeral services, including the layout of new cemetery lots and sections and the accurate location of grave sites.
- Oversee and perform gravesite preparation, including excavation, vault adjustment and placement, backfilling, and site closure; prepare and verify layouts for interments and cremations; set up and coordinate equipment and gravesites for funeral services; assist vault companies with installations; and layout foundations for monuments and memorials.
- Maintain accurate and timely records of interments, burial lot purchases, materials used, equipment operation, payroll, attendance, and overtime using data‑based computer systems.
- Determine daily workforce, equipment, and material needs; deploy personnel and resources effectively; work alongside staff to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and to established standards.
- Inspect work in progress and upon completion to ensure timely, acceptable results; coordinate field activities with other departments when necessary.
- Ensure compliance with OSHA and applicable state safety regulations; actively enforce safe work practices and proper use of personal protective equipment while performing physically demanding tasks, including lifting and transporting heavy materials.
- Supervise, instruct, and train employees through direct, on‑the‑job leadership; provide guidance, corrective instruction, and performance feedback; stay informed of industry practices, equipment, and regulatory changes.
- Oversee inventory control, materials ordering, and purchasing activities; provide input into budget development and recommend equipment specifications, maintenance, and replacement needs based on field experience.
- Respond to public inquiries and complaints in the field and through direct contact; resolve routine issues and refer complex or sensitive matters to the Superintendent.
- Manage and participate in fleet operations, including scheduling maintenance, monitoring safe vehicle use, tracking usage, and coordinating repairs.
- Assist with Transfer Station operations through direct supervision and participation, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards.
- Perform duties outside normal work hours as required and respond to emergency calls unless prior arrangements are made with the Superintendent.
- Perform related duties as required.
Emergency Response
- Respond to emergency situations such as severe weather events, infrastructure failures, and public safety hazards.
- Coordinate emergency response efforts, including deployment of personnel and equipment.
- Ensure staff are trained and prepared for emergency operations.
- Maintain readiness of emergency equipment and supplies.
- Communicate effectively with other departments and agencies during emergency events.
- Required to work outside normal hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to address operational needs and urgent issues.
Supervision and Controls
Responsible for supervising and training all division employees. Prioritize, plan, and direct work assignments and resource deployment. Operates under general supervision with guidance from oral instructions, specifications, manuals, and regulations.
Work Environment and Physical Demands
Work occurs in varied settings including office, field, garage environments, and in all weather conditions. Exposure to extreme weather, fumes, noise, and odors is common. Frequent strenuous physical activity is required. Frequent exposure to hazardous conditions. Regular contact with the public, other departments, and team members, which requires tact and diplomacy.
Judgment, Initiative, and Accountability
Apply technical knowledge and sound judgment to ensure safe and effective operations. Plan and execute operations and maintenance projects independently. Errors may impact public health, service delivery, and infrastructure integrity.
Qualifications
Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent required. A minimum of five (5) years of experience in the construction, repair, and maintenance of cemeteries, parks, and related landscaping systems, including the operation and maintenance of associated equipment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience in public works or related construction fields. A minimum of two (2) years of supervisory or lead‑worker experience is desirable but not required. The Town will provide training for the selected candidate.
Knowledge and Skills
- Considerable knowledge of the methods, materials, and tools in the maintenance of cemeteries and parks; groundskeeping and landscaping methods; techniques and materials.
- Ability to plan, coordinate, and supervise projects and personnel.
- Effective communication skills, both oral and written.
- Proficient in operating vehicles and equipment safely.
- Knowledge of fleet management practices.
- Proficient computer skills, including but not limited to email, Microsoft Office programs (e.g., Word, Excel, Outlook), and data entry.
Required Licenses and Certifications
- Valid Class B Commercial Driver’s License, Class A preferred.
- Hoisting Engineer License Class 2A, and 4G.
Health Requirements
Must be in good physical and mental condition and able to perform the essential functions of the position without risk to self or others. Duties require the ability to safely operate tools, machinery, and controls; reach with hands and arms; and perform sustained physical activity. The position requires standing, walking, sitting, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and the ability to lift and carry heavy objects as necessary in the performance of job responsibilities.
Salary Range
Salary Range: $33.00- $35.00 per Hour (Depending on Qualifications)
Application forms may be obtained at the Public Works Department, 675 Simonds Rd., Williamstown, MA or apply online.
The Town of Williamstown is an EOQ Employer.
The position will remain open until it is filled.
This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.
Posted May 13, 2026