Cemetery Director

Location: New Albany, IN

Posted: June 19, 2025

Saint Mary Catholic Cemetery is seeking a mission-driven, experienced Cemetery Director to oversee the operation, maintenance, and long-term planning of its sacred grounds. This role ensures the cemetery is operated in accordance with civil and Church law, with compassion, dignity, and professionalism, while remaining fiscally self-sustaining.

Position Summary

The Cemetery Director provides leadership and strategic oversight for all cemetery operations including administration, maintenance, sales, and financial stewardship. The Director ensures a dignified environment for Christian burial, while upholding the traditions and teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage day-to-day cemetery operations for Saint Mary, including administration, grounds, and interments.
• Plan and implement long- and short-term goals related to property development, equipment procurement, marketing, and capital improvements.
• Supervise and support staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, performance evaluations, and terminations.
• Develop and oversee operating budgets and capital expenditures; monitor financial performance and ensure fiscal accountability.
• Collaborate with attorneys on legal documents, contracts, and interment/entombment agreements.
• Ensure adherence to all applicable safety and regulatory requirements.
• Serve as primary liaison to clergy, funeral directors, legal advisors, families, and vendors.
• Promote cemetery services and manage all sales activities related to plots, crypts, and niches.
• Resolve complex customer service issues and disputes related to ownership or burial services.
• Represent the cemetery in diocesan, local, and national Catholic cemetery associations.
• Coordinate educational and training opportunities for cemetery staff and parish partners.
• Be available to work evenings and weekends as needed for funerals or urgent matters.

Qualifications

• College degree preferred.
• Prior experience in Catholic cemetery management or equivalent leadership in business operations, property development, or funeral services strongly preferred.
• Strong knowledge in areas such as financial planning, HR administration, budgeting, public relations, property and facilities management, and compliance.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to lead with sensitivity and pastoral care in a faith-based environment.
• Must comply with the Archdiocese of Indianapolis Code of Conduct
• Completion of Archdiocese of Indianapolis Child Safety Training
• Successful background screening
• Practicing Catholic or individual with strong Christian values, willing and able to learn Catholic burial rites and customs.

To Apply:

Please send your resume and a cover letter to Father Nico Ajpacaja atfr.nico0320@gmail.com.