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Cremation Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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Cremation Operator information

See Washington salary details

$13

$23

$33

How much do cremation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for cremation operator in Washington is $23.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $25.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cremation Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cremation Operator, you need knowledge of crematory operations, safety procedures, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certification. Familiarity with cremation equipment, maintenance tools, and record-keeping systems is important for daily tasks. Attention to detail, discretion, and compassion are crucial soft skills for managing sensitive situations and interacting with grieving families. These skills ensure respectful handling of remains, legal compliance, and the provision of professional, empathetic service.

What are some common challenges faced by Cremation Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Cremation Operators often encounter challenges such as managing the emotional environment when interacting with grieving families, maintaining strict adherence to safety and regulatory protocols, and operating specialized equipment efficiently. Staying organized and detail-oriented ensures proper identification and handling of remains, which is crucial for accuracy and respect. Regular training and communication with funeral directors and support staff help address these challenges, while a supportive team environment can make emotionally taxing days more manageable.

What is a cremation operator?

A cremation operator is a professional responsible for operating crematory equipment to perform the cremation of human remains. Their duties include preparing the cremation chamber, ensuring regulatory compliance, handling remains with respect, and maintaining records. Cremation operators must follow strict safety and legal guidelines throughout the process to ensure dignity and accuracy. They may also interact with funeral directors, families, and regulatory agencies. The role requires attention to detail, empathy, and technical proficiency.

What is the difference between Cremation Operator vs Crematory Technician?

AspectCremation OperatorCrematory Technician
CertificationsTypically requires on-the-job training, OSHA safety trainingOften requires OSHA safety training, possibly state-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentWork primarily in cremation chambers and facilities, handling equipmentWork in crematories, performing maintenance, and ensuring proper operation
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by funeral homes and crematoriesEmployed by funeral homes, crematories, or specialized cremation service providers

The main difference between a Cremation Operator and a Crematory Technician lies in their scope of responsibilities. Cremation Operators focus on operating cremation equipment and ensuring proper procedures, while Crematory Technicians often handle maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical aspects. Both roles require safety training and are integral to cremation services, but the Technician role may involve more technical skills and certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Cremation Operator jobs in Washington? For Cremation Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cremation Operator jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Cremation Operator jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Cremation Operator jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Cremation Operator job openings:
Cremation Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cremation Operator job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 23% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, 68% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,916 per year, or $23 per hour.

Crematory Operator

Service Corporation International

Falls Church, VA

$19 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Service Corporation International rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 94 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 9 rated funeral services

Job description

Our associates celebrate lives. We celebrate our associates.

Properly receive and process human remains and ensures that the cremated remains are returned to the authorized person(s) according to company procedures and applicable Federal, State and Municipal regulations. Duties must be performed consistent with company mission and values and adherence to company policies and procedures.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Cares for deceased in a respectful manner while performing all the tasks involved in the cremation process

  • Receives remains and ensures all documentation is complete and visual identification of the deceased is complete and accurate.

  • Completes all required documentation with respect to cremation process and equipment maintenance

  • Adheres to all professional, municipal, state/provincial and federal licensing authority regulations applicable to the cremation of human remains

  • Adheres to all applicable policies and procedures

  • Maintains all Company logs/reports and required state-specific reports

  • Maintains all chain of custody paperwork

  • Promotes a safe work environment by being aware of and practicing universal precautions and adopting general principles of safe conduct

  • Maintains the crematorium, equipment and adjacent facilities

  • May deliver/release cremated remains to appropriate funeral home or proper authority

  • Other duties as directed by management

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education

  • High school diploma or equivalent.  Completion of a formal program at a college or technical school specializing in funeral service or mortuary science where required by state law.

Experience

  • Minimum one to three months experience as an apprentice

Certification/Licenses

  • Certified Crematory Operator as required by state law; valid driver’s license required if performing removals and transfers of bodies and delivering cremated remains

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Familiar with the basic operation of industrial equipment to include basic trouble-shooting skills

  • Basic computer skills

  • Ability to maintain effective relationships with all affiliates and/or third parties

  • Good communication skills

  • High level of compassion and integrity

  • Problem solving skills

  • Ability to multi task and set priorities

  • Detail oriented

Postal Code: 22042Category (Portal Searching): OperationsJob Location: US-VA - Falls Church

Company Description

We are proud to be North America's leading provider of funeral, cremation and cemetery services.

Our nearly 25,000 associates are driven by our guiding purpose to compassionately support families during their most difficult times, celebrate the significance of life and preserve memories that transcend generations.

We’ve created a culture of Service Excellence to our families and to each other. It’s the reason more than 600,000 families turn to us each year to care for their loved ones.

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