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Cremation Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Cairn Partners

Sales Professional

Ames, IA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care has been serving the members of the Ames, Iowa community since 2008. We are proud to be Ames' only locally owned and represented funeral care center. Helping ...

Cairn Partners

Sales Professional

Ames, IA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care has been serving the members of the Ames, Iowa community since 2008. We are proud to be Ames' only locally owned and represented funeral care center. Helping ...

Cairn Partners

Sales Professional

Ames, IA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care has been serving the members of the Ames, Iowa community since 2008. We are proud to be Ames' only locally owned and represented funeral care center. Helping ...

All JobsCremation JobsCremation Jobs in Iowa

Cremation information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$16

$30

How much do cremation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for cremation in Iowa is $16.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.59 and $19.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are cremation services?

Cremation services involve the process of reducing a deceased person's body to ashes using high heat and flame. This process is typically carried out in a specialized furnace called a cremator at a crematorium. Cremation is an alternative to traditional burial and may include additional services such as memorial ceremonies, viewings, or the handling of remains. The cremated ashes, also known as cremains, are then returned to the family in an urn or container of their choice. Families can choose to keep the ashes, scatter them, or inter them in a cemetery or special location.

What is a cremation job?

Cremation jobs include a cremation technician, crematorium operator, or director of a crematorium. As a cremation technician or operator, your duties are to ensure that the crematorium equipment is working properly, prepare the remains for the process, load bodies into the crematory, operate the machine, and ensure that the remains are completely cremated before preparing the ashes for the bereaved. You must keep careful logs of your work. In addition to cremating bodies, your responsibilities include helping families fill out paperwork, preparing funerals at a crematory, and arranging transport. In a director role, you oversee and manage staff and perform a wide range of administrative tasks, although at smaller facilities, you may also handle similar duties as a technician.

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

To thrive as a Cremation Technician, you need a solid understanding of crematory operations, safety protocols, and compliance with legal and ethical standards, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certification. Familiarity with cremation equipment, record-keeping systems, and environmental controls is typically required. Attention to detail, integrity, and sensitivity when interacting with grieving families are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure respectful, safe, and legally compliant handling of remains, supporting families during a difficult time.

What are some unique challenges faced by cremation technicians in their day-to-day work?

Cremation technicians often work in environments that require attention to detail, respect for grieving families, and adherence to strict regulatory standards. One common challenge is managing multiple cremation schedules while ensuring that all documentation and identification protocols are meticulously followed to prevent errors. Additionally, technicians must handle specialized equipment safely and perform routine maintenance, all while maintaining a compassionate approach when interacting with clients or family members. This role also requires emotional resilience, as technicians may encounter sensitive situations frequently.

What is the difference between Cremation vs Embalming Technician?

AspectCremationEmbalming Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a state license or certification, training in cremation proceduresRequires mortuary science license, embalming certification, and state licensing
Work EnvironmentFacilities with cremation equipment, crematories, or funeral homesFuneral homes, mortuaries, embalming rooms
Industry UsagePart of funeral services, focusing on cremation processPart of funeral services, focusing on embalming and body preparation

While both cremation and embalming technicians work in funeral services, cremation involves operating cremation equipment to reduce remains to ashes, whereas embalming technicians prepare bodies for viewings through embalming and restorative techniques. Each role requires specific certifications and work environments but shares the common goal of providing respectful body care in the funeral industry.

How long does it take to become a certified cremation operator?

Becoming a certified cremation operator typically requires completing a training program that lasts from a few days to several weeks, depending on the state or organization. Certification often involves passing a written exam and gaining practical experience in cremation procedures and safety protocols.

Is being a cremation operator a good job?

Cremation operators perform the process of cremating human remains using specialized equipment, often working in funeral homes or crematories. The job requires attention to safety protocols, technical skills, and sometimes certification, with typical schedules including day shifts. It can be a stable career for those interested in the funeral services industry, but it involves handling sensitive situations and exposure to high-temperature equipment.
More about Cremation jobs

What are popular job titles related to Cremation jobs in Iowa?

For Cremation jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cremation jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Cremation jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Cremation jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Cremation job openings:

Cremation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cremation job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,244 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Sales Professional

Cairn Partners

Ames, IA • On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Immediate need for an enthusiastic and driven Sales Professional looking to join a dedicated team at a trusted funeral service provider. We are seeking an individual who possesses the ability to build lasting relationships with individuals and families to provide them with comprehensive guidance regarding preneed funeral and memorial planning.

 Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care has been serving the members of the Ames, Iowa community since 2008.  We are proud to be Ames' only locally owned and represented funeral care center.

 Helping families create lasting legacies is more than a job - it's our calling.  Join us to embark on a meaningful career where you can make a positive impact on others' lives while achieving your professional goals.

Requirements

Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to connect and empathize with clients

Strong communication abilities, both verbal and written

2+ years in sales is preferred, with appointment setting and consulting experience

Other professional career backgrounds will also be considered

Must be organized, self-motivated, and able to work independently

Use of a reliable vehicle for transportation

Current IA Life License or the ability to obtain one

Benefits

First-year Income Potential: $60k - $80k

Yearly Sales Incentives

Lead Generation Programs

Customer Relationship Management Tools provided

We offer a competitive performance-based compensation package, state-of-the-art technology, 1-year formal training and comprehensive sales support. Please submit your resume for consideration.

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