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Crematory Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Holder Construction

Operator (Hourly)

Richmond, VA

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

About the Role We are looking for an Operator to join our Operations team in Richmond, VA. This is a full-time position. Key Responsibilities * Moving materials in a safe and orderly way using ...

Quality LiveChat

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Webcam Operators Text Operators Phone Operators We Do Offer Training. We Do Offer Direct Deposit. Your must be computer savvy or be willing and open to learrn. Anyone interested in working for our ...

Penn Line Enterprises, Inc.

Bucket Truck Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Bucket Operator A Bucket Operator's primary responsibility is to assist with the clearing & removal of trees along electrical power lines and right-of-ways. A Bucket Operator operates an aerial lift ...

Nightwing

SIGINT Operator

Sterling, VA

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Nightwing has an immediate need for SIGINT Operators in the Washington Metropolitan Area. The Technical Specialists - SIGINT Operators will conduct technical SIGINT collection in support of customer ...

Ole Mexican Foods Inc

Independent Operator (IO)

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Independent Operator (IO) Opportunities in various States! This is a 1099 Contractor (Owner Operator) Opportunity: Be your OWN BOSS! At Ole, our mission is to produce the finest Authentic Mexican ...

Penn Line Tree Service, Inc.

Bucket Truck Operator

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

A Bucket Operator's primary responsibility is to assist with the clearing & removal of trees along electrical power lines and right-of-ways. A Bucket Operator operates an aerial lift device (bucket ...

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Crematory Operator information

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How much do crematory operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for crematory operator in Virginia is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $22.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How many hours do crematory operators work weekly?

Crematory operators typically work full-time hours, averaging around 40 hours per week. They may work irregular or on-call hours to accommodate funeral schedules and ensure proper operation of cremation equipment. Overtime can be required during busy periods or emergencies.

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.

How much does a crematory operator make per hour?

A crematory operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires knowledge of cremation equipment and adherence to safety and environmental regulations.

What is the difference between Crematory Operator vs Funeral Director?

AspectCrematory OperatorFuneral Director
CertificationsTypically requires crematory operation training and certificationRequires funeral service license and embalming certification
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in crematories, handling cremation equipmentWorks in funeral homes, managing funeral arrangements and services
Industry UsageSpecializes in cremation processes within funeral servicesProvides 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 are crematory operators?

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 to become a crematorium operator?

To become a crematory operator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require on-the-job training or certification in cremation procedures and safety protocols. Some states or employers may also require a license or certification, and familiarity with handling sensitive materials and operating specialized equipment is essential.

Is being a crematory operator hard?

Being a crematory operator involves handling sensitive tasks in a controlled environment, requiring attention to safety protocols, proper equipment operation, and adherence to regulations. The job can be physically and emotionally demanding, often involving shift work and strict procedural compliance.
More about Crematory Operator jobs
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Crematory Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Crematory Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 18% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 10% Temporary, 32% Contract, and 31% Nights. Highlights an 29% Physical, 15% Hybrid, and 56% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,944 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Crematory Operator

Service Corporation International

Falls Church, VA

$19 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 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

What Service Corporation International employees say

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