Funeral Service Crew - 6 Month Fixed Term Contract reference: 1058805

For individuals seeking a role where they can make a tangible difference in their community and support families during significant life events, this Funeral Service Crew position presents a unique and meaningful opportunity. This fixed-term contract, lasting six months, offers a pathway into a compassionate and essential service with comprehensive training provided.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Meaningful Contribution: The core of this role involves assisting families in creating a "perfect goodbye" for their loved ones, offering invaluable support during a sensitive time. This offers a profound sense of purpose and community impact.
• Comprehensive Training & Support: No prior experience in the funeral industry is required. The Co-op provides full training and ongoing support, making this an excellent entry point for career changers or those looking to develop new skills.
• Competitive Compensation & Benefits: A competitive hourly rate of £12.79 is offered, along with a robust benefits package. This includes significant discounts on Co-op branded products and services, an excellent pension scheme with up to 10% employer contributions, and 23 days of holiday (pro-rata).
• Flexible Working & On-Call Component: The part-time nature of the role (20 hours per week, Monday to Friday between 8 am and 8 pm) provides a degree of flexibility. The inclusion of an on-call rota ensures a varied and dynamic work experience.
• Career Development: While a fixed-term contract, the Co-op emphasizes career development opportunities, including access to apprenticeships, suggesting potential for longer-term engagement or skill progression.
• Employee Well-being Focus: Access to an Employee Assistance Programme offering 24/7 confidential support, virtual GP services, and free eye tests demonstrates a strong commitment to employee well-being.
• Financial Flexibility: The availability of Wagestream, a money management app, allows employees to access a portion of their earned pay before payday, offering valuable financial flexibility.
• Inclusive Environment: The Co-op is dedicated to building diverse and inclusive teams, welcoming applications from all backgrounds and actively supporting candidates with disabilities through the Disability Confident scheme.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Physical Demands: The role involves manual lifting, carrying, and bearing of coffins, as well as driving. Candidates should be comfortable with and capable of performing these physical aspects of the job. Comprehensive training and equipment will be provided to ensure safe working practices.
• Driving Licence Requirement: A full, manual UK driving licence is a mandatory requirement for this position.
• Technical Aptitude: Good IT skills are essential, including confidence in using various devices (computers, tablets, smartphones) and the ability to learn new applications and systems. This is crucial for maintaining client management applications.
• Emotional Resilience & Empathy: The ability to remain calm, compassionate, and empathetic in emotional circumstances is paramount. Providing sensitive customer service is a key component of the role.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail is required to ensure accuracy in record-keeping and adherence to regulatory policies and processes.
• Fixed-Term Contract: This is a 6-month fixed-term contract. While career development is mentioned, candidates should be aware of the initial contract duration.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Successful applicants will undergo background checks, including a DBS check, adverse media checks, an occupational health questionnaire, and social media activity review.

This role is ideal for individuals who are empathetic, possess strong interpersonal skills, and are looking for a career with a clear social purpose. The Co-op's commitment to its members and communities, coupled with excellent training and benefits, makes this a compelling opportunity for those seeking a role that is both professionally rewarding and personally fulfilling.