... crematory, as permitted by law and in keeping with company regulations * Performs office duties such as answering phones and operating fax machine, computer, multiline phone system, debit card ...
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... crematory, as permitted by law and in keeping with company regulations * Performs office duties such as answering phones and operating fax machine, computer, multiline phone system, debit card ...
Crematory Operator information
See Alabama salary details
$11.11 - $12.56
3% of jobs
$12.56 - $14
4% of jobs
$15.33 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14 - $15.45
19% of jobs
$15.45 - $16.90
22% of jobs
The median wage is $16.99 / hr.
$16.90 - $18.34
17% of jobs
$19.71 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.34 - $19.79
10% of jobs
$19.79 - $21.23
10% of jobs
$21.23 - $22.68
7% of jobs
$22.68 - $24.13
4% of jobs
$24.13 - $25.57
2% of jobs
$25.57 - $27.02
1% of jobs
$11
$18
$27
How much do crematory operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for crematory operator in Alabama is $18.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $20.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
How long does it take to become a crematory operator?
Becoming a crematory operator typically requires completing a training program that can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on state regulations and employer requirements. Some states also require certification or licensing, which may involve additional coursework and exams, and gaining experience in related roles can be beneficial before starting as an operator.
What does a crematory operator do?
A crematory operator provides cremation services for a funeral home or crematorium. The duties of a crematory operator are to ensure the body is treated with respect, correctly labeled and placed into the crematory machine. Some locations allow family members to witness the cremation, so a crematory operator must have the skills needed to perform their task with sensitivity and deference to the family.
What qualifications do you need to work as a crematory operator?
Crematory operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require specialized training in cremation procedures and safety protocols. Certification or licensing is often required by state or local regulations, and knowledge of operating cremation equipment and adherence to environmental and health standards are essential.
What is the difference between Crematory Operator vs Funeral Director?
| Aspect | Crematory Operator | Funeral Director |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Typically requires crematory operation training and certification | Requires funeral service license and embalming certification |
| Work Environment | Works primarily in crematories, handling cremation equipment | Works in funeral homes, managing funeral arrangements and services |
| Industry Usage | Specializes in cremation processes within funeral services | Provides comprehensive funeral planning and services |
While both roles are part of the funeral industry, a Crematory Operator focuses on operating cremation equipment and ensuring proper cremation procedures. A Funeral Director manages the overall funeral planning, arrangements, and client interactions. Understanding these differences helps families choose the right professional for their needs.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crematory operator, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Crematory Operator, you need knowledge of cremation procedures, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with crematory machinery, maintenance protocols, and adherence to state or local certification requirements are essential. Strong soft skills include respect for grieving families, reliability, and the ability to maintain discretion and professionalism. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring legal compliance, operational safety, and compassionate service during a sensitive time.
What is a crematory operator?
Crematory operators are professionals responsible for managing and operating cremation equipment used to cremate human or animal remains. Their duties include preparing the cremation chamber, ensuring proper identification of remains, operating the machinery, and adhering to safety and legal regulations. They may also handle record-keeping, maintenance of the crematory facility, and sometimes interact with grieving families in a respectful manner.
What are some common challenges faced by crematory operators, and how can they be managed?
Crematory operators often encounter challenges such as managing emotional situations with grieving families, maintaining strict adherence to safety and legal regulations, and handling multiple tasks under time constraints. Staying organized, following established protocols, and having strong attention to detail are essential for success in this role. Building communication skills and emotional resilience can also help operators support families while ensuring respectful and compliant operations.
How much do crematory operators make a year?
Crematory operators typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires knowledge of operating cremation equipment and adherence to safety and environmental regulations.
More about Crematory Operator jobs
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What job categories do people searching Crematory Operator jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Crematory Operator jobs in Alabama are:
What are popular job titles related to Crematory Operator jobs in AL? For Crematory Operator jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Part-time
Re-posted 9 days ago
Service Corporation International rating
6.7
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.
Provides clerical and administrative assistance supporting funeral operations. Other general duties include meeting the general public, answering questions and providing information on funeral and cremation information and other related topics, answering phones courteously and in a polite manner, assisting on funeral, memorial and other services or ceremonies as requested by funeral home clients and management. Attendance at monthly staff meeting is expected.The Funeral Services Assistant duties must be performed consistent with company mission and values and adherence to company policies and procedures.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
- Prepares for services to include delivering and setting up floral arrangements, chairs, caskets, urns, photos and other personal keepsakes or mementos of client families; ensures proper care and storage of any of these items
- Prepares documents related to services, cremations, maintenance, as directed by management
- Assists with respectful preparation of remains of deceased, including dressing and lifting deceased, or operation of crematory, as permitted by law and in keeping with company regulations
- Performs office duties such as answering phones and operating fax machine, computer, multiline phone system, debit card machine, typewriter, postage meter and scale and stereo/video system.
- Run errands such as for floral delivery, picking up of supplies, documents, etc
- Serves as an usher and may park cars or perform any transportation requirements.
- Drives Funeral Home vehicles for services and picking up families
- Ensures refreshments are available (where allowed by law)
- Assist with visitations, memorial and funeral services which may include; visitation and chapel set up, dressing and casketing remains, delivering family items and flowers.
- Prepares documents related to services, cremations, maintenance etc.,
- Greets and receives client families and / or other persons entering the office for information and assistance
- Accommodates the needs of the family during a service and/or visitation
- May wash and clean funeral home vehicles and other client vehicles as required from time to time
MINIMUM Requirements
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
Experience
- Previous customer service and/or sales experience preferred
- Proficient with MS Office suite and databases preferred; ability and willingness to learn required
Certification/Licenses
- Valid state driver’s license with an acceptable driving record required
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- High level of compassion and integrity
- Clear and concise verbal and written communication skills
- Professional behaviors and team player
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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