A respected role within a long-established, family-run business
A.B. Walker has been serving communities since 1826. With nine branches across Berkshire and surrounding areas, we are proud to be an independent, family-run funeral director known for our professionalism, care and attention to detail.
Our team plays a vital role in supporting families at some of the most difficult times in their lives, delivering services with dignity, respect and quiet excellence.
The role
We are looking for a committed and compassionate Funeral Operative to join our team.
This is a varied, hands-on position that combines client-facing responsibilities with essential behind-the-scenes care. You will be integral to the smooth delivery of funeral services, ensuring that every aspect is carried out to the highest standard.
No two days are the same, and the role requires both emotional sensitivity and practical capability.
Key responsibilities
- Bringing the deceased into our care with dignity and professionalism
- Supporting funeral services, including pallbearing duties
- Chauffeuring clients and families where required
- Preparing and presenting the deceased for viewing
- Assisting with coffin preparation and finishing
- Maintaining the cleanliness and presentation of vehicles and facilities
- Supporting the wider team to ensure services run seamlessly
About you
We are looking for individuals with a strong sense of responsibility and a genuine desire to deliver exceptional care.
You may come from a range of backgrounds, including logistics, healthcare, hospitality, or other service-led environments.
You will:
- Demonstrate empathy, respect and emotional awareness
- Have a calm, professional and reliable approach
- Be physically capable of carrying out manual aspects of the role
- Communicate clearly and work effectively as part of a team
- Take pride in maintaining high standards in everything you do
- Be adaptable and comfortable working in a role where no two days are the same
Previous experience in the funeral sector is beneficial but not essential. Full training and ongoing support will be provided.
Requirements
- Full, clean UK manual driving licence (essential) & meet our insurers driving requirement's of 21 years
- Willingness to participate in an on-call rota (approximately 1 in 9 days, with additional pay)
- Employment subject to an enhanced DBS check
Working hours
- Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.00pm (full-time)
- Part-time opportunities available with adjusted hours
Why join A.B. Walker?
This role offers more than day-to-day work. It is an opportunity to be part of a trusted organisation where care, professionalism and teamwork are at the core of everything we do.
You will develop valuable skills within a supportive, close-knit team while contributing to work that has real meaning and impact.
If you are looking for a role where you can combine practical work with purpose, we would welcome your application.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From £26,600.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Reading, Berkshire: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Driving Licence (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
