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Cremation Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Matthews International is a world wide leader in casket manufacturing, providing the highest quality wood, metal and cremation caskets, as well as urns, memorial jewelry and other products to our ...

Matthews International is a world wide leader in casket manufacturing, providing the highest quality wood, metal and cremation caskets, as well as urns, memorial jewelry and other products to our ...

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Cremation information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$18

$33

How much do cremation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cremation in Riverside, CA is $18.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.86 and $21.83 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 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.

How to get a job in cremation?

To work in cremation services, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue certifications such as a crematory operator license. Relevant skills include attention to detail, respect for the process, and familiarity with safety protocols; some roles require experience in funeral services or mortuary science. Job opportunities are often found through funeral homes, crematories, or industry-specific job boards.

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.

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.

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.

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 popular job titles related to Cremation jobs in Riverside, CA? For Cremation jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Cremation jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Cremation job openings:
Infographic showing various Cremation job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,978 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


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

Compensation:
Salary: $21.00 an hour
Benefits:
Medical*Dental*Vision*Flexible Spending Accounts (health care and dependent care) *Health Savings Account with Company Contribution*Sick Leave*Short-Term Disability*Long-Term Disability*Life Insurance*Voluntary Accidental Death or Dismemberment Insurance*Dependent Life Insurance*SCI 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Company match*Employee Assistance Program

Postal Code: 92404
Category (Portal Searching): Operations
Job Location: US-CA - San Bernardino

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