Funeral Operative – Garage Manager
Location: 213 Yardley Road, Acocks Green, Birmingham, B27 6LZ
Salary: £25,000 - £27,000 (depending on experience) + out-of-hours disbursement
Job Type: Full-time
Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM + out-of-hours and weekend rota
About Us
Stephen and Philip Painter are father and son, fourth and fifth-generation Independent Funeral Directors, serving the communities of Acocks Green and Hall Green with dignity and professionalism. We are currently seeking a professional and empathetic Funeral Operative – Garage Manager to oversee our garage facilities, manage vehicle operations, and support bereaved families.
Key Responsibilities
1. Fleet & Vehicle Management
- Oversee the maintenance, servicing, and repairs of funeral vehicles (hearses, limousines, and private ambulances).
- Ensure vehicle cleanliness and presentation meet company and industry standards.
- Coordinate with mechanics, service providers, and suppliers for repairs and part replacements.
- Monitor MOT, insurance, and road tax renewals to ensure compliance.
- Conduct daily vehicle checks (fuel, oil, tyres, and overall condition).
2. Garage & Equipment Maintenance
- Maintain a well-organized, clean, and safe garage/workshop.
- Manage stock levels for garage supplies, spare parts, and vehicle cleaning products.
- Ensure the safe and secure storage of funeral equipment (coffins, stretchers, trolleys).
- Implement preventative maintenance schedules to reduce vehicle downtime.
3. Team Leadership & Staff Management
- Supervise and support drivers, funeral operatives, and maintenance staff.
- Provide training on vehicle handling, safe driving, and manual handling procedures.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety protocols.
4. Operational & Logistical Support
- Work closely with Funeral Directors and Arrangers to ensure seamless service.
- Assist with coffin logistics, ensuring safe storage and transportation.
- Support the team in emergency call-outs and last-minute vehicle adjustments.
5. Care of the Deceased
- Collect the deceased from homes, hospitals, hospices, or care homes with professionalism and respect.
- Prepare and dress the deceased for viewings and funerals.
- Ensure dignity and the highest standards of presentation at all times.
6. Funeral & Operational Duties
- Drive and maintain funeral vehicles (hearses, limousines, and private ambulances).
- Assist with coffin bearing duties, including lifting and carrying as part of a team.
- Set up funeral venues, ensuring all necessary preparations are completed.
7. On-Call & Out-of-Hours Duties
- Participate in out-of-hours removals and on-call duties as required.
- Be available for evening, weekend, and emergency call-outs.
Essential Requirements
- Full UK Driving Licence (minimum 2 years clean).
- Comfortable with manual handling and lifting, as the role involves physical work.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to interact professionally with grieving families.
- A compassionate and professional approach when working with the deceased and bereaved families.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and on-call shifts.
- Right to work in the UK.
Benefits
- Competitive salary & overtime opportunities.
- Company Pension.
- 20 days holiday plus Bank Holidays.
- Uniform provided.
- On-site parking.
- Supportive and compassionate team environment.