Casual On-Call Funeral Services Operative
Join the team at S Clarke & Son Funeral Directors – Newtownards
Are you calm under pressure, compassionate by nature, and looking for flexible work that truly makes a difference? We're looking for a dependable individual to join our team as a Casual On-Call Funeral Operative.
This is a trusted, hands-on role that calls for discretion, professionalism and emotional steadiness. While the work can be challenging at times, it is also deeply meaningful - supporting families during one of the most important and difficult moments in their lives.
If you've previously worked in roles where you needed to stay composed and professional in situations involving sudden or unexpected death - and you're now seeking purposeful, flexible work - we'd love to hear from you.
The Role
You'll be part of a 1-in-5 on-call rota, covering half-week blocks:
* Monday to Saturday: 16:30 – 08:00
* Sunday: 24-hour cover
What you'll be doing:
* Taking initial calls from families reporting a death, providing a calm and caring first point of contact
* Supporting bereaved families out of hours, offering reassurance and recording key information accurately
* Bringing the deceased into our care, often during the night and sometimes in sensitive or challenging circumstances
* Preparing, transporting and caring for the deceased with dignity, professionalism and strict adherence to health and safety standards
* Maintaining accurate written and digital records in line with regulations
* Working closely with colleagues to ensure smooth handovers to the daytime team
* Driving and maintaining funeral vehicles
* Assisting with daytime funerals (when available, based on business needs)
* Carrying out pre-funeral route and address checks
* Always representing our company with respect and professionalism
Please note: Daytime hours are offered on a casual basis and are not guaranteed. Some weeks may be busier than others.
To ensure a timely response to callouts, applicants
About You
We're looking for someone who:
* Has a good general standard of education and a commitment to self-development
* Has their own transport for training and work
* Remains composed and caring in emotionally demanding situations
* Communicates clearly, confidently and respectfully
* Demonstrates professionalism, adaptability and strong attention to detail
* Works well as part of a team and takes pride in personal presentation
* Can carry out manual handling duties (fitness assessment may apply)
* Holds a full UK driving licence (manual and automatic), with at least 3 years' driving experience and no more than 3 penalty points
* Has experience interacting with people from a range of ages and backgrounds
* Can follow instructions carefully and accurately
* Is flexible and able to work night shifts
* Shares and works within our values
No previous funeral industry experience is required - full training will be provided in our standards and procedures.
What We Offer
* £14.55 per hour plus on-call payments
* Uniform provided
* Accrued holiday pay
* Statutory sick pay
* Company pension scheme (subject to eligibility)
Important Information: This role includes direct physical contact with the deceased as part of normal duties, including preparation, transportation and personal care. These tasks are carried out with dignity, respect and in line with health and safety standards.
Please carefully consider your comfort level with these responsibilities before applying.
As part of our recruitment process, you may be required to undertake various assessments.
Successful applicants will be subject to pre-employment checks, including:
* ACCESSNI and Disclosure and Barring Service checks (under the Rehabilitation of Offenders (NI) Order 1978)
* Adverse media screening
* Occupational health questionnaire
* Social media screening
Any offer of employment will be conditional upon satisfactory completion of these checks.
We welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels supported and valued.
If this opportunity aligns with your experience and values, please send your CV to
Pay: £14.55 per hour
Expected hours: 1 – 18 per week
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Free flu jabs
* Free parking
Application question(s):
* Do you live within 25 minutes travelling distance from the premises?
Work Location: In person