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Crematory Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crematory Operator

Aurora, CO · On-site

$18 - $24.25/hr

Valid Crematory Operators license. * Valid state issued driver's license in good standing and acceptable driving record. Additional Eligibility Qualifications * Ability to read, write, and speak ...

Crematory Operator

Commerce City, CO · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

The Crematory Operator will have the responsibility to see that the remains are properly received and processed at the crematory, and that the cremated remains are returned to the authorized person(s)

Crematory Operator

Commerce City, CO

$18.75 - $25/hr

The Crematory Operator will have the responsibility to see that the remains are properly received and processed at the crematory, and that the cremated remains are returned to the authorized person(s)

If you don't yet hold your crematory operator license, we'll help you get there. What You'll Do * Perform cremation services with the highest standards of care, accuracy, and respect * Transfer ...

Crematory Technician

Fridley, MN · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

If you don't yet hold your crematory operator license, we'll help you get there. What You'll Do * Perform cremation services with the highest standards of care, accuracy, and respect * Transfer ...

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Crematory Operator information

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How much do crematory operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for crematory operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.84 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.
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Crematory Operator

$18 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Park Lawn Corporation rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 8 rated funeral services


Job description

Why Work for Horan & McConaty?
Service
  • At every level, our dedicated team members display a strong work ethic and commitment to our core values, respect for the family, the profession, and the individual.
  • Work with leading experts in the funeral and cemetery profession.

Benefits
  • Financial assistant programs encouraging employees through education and development in industry related subjects.
  • Robust Health and Welfare Plans, and savings account options, designed to support your personal needs, enhance well-being and help navigate life's challenges.
  • Rich 401k and Roth Retirement Plan options available for both Full Time and Part Time employees along with a Company Match.
  • Variety of Vacation, Personal Days and Sick Days based on your role emphasizing the importance of physical and emotional replenishment for our team.
  • Employee Discounts on services, merchandise, and property to help our team members in their time of need.

Culture
  • We value honesty, courage, integrity, ethical behavior and the development of personal growth.
  • We are rooted in the communities to provide a personal touch to every family we serve.
  • We believe in the value of funeral and cemetery service, drawing on decades of experience to create the best experience for our families.

Essential Functions
  • Operates cremation equipment and chamber/retort and ensures that cremation procedures are followed.
  • Receives decedent(s) and ensures proper paperwork and protocol is followed.
  • Performs verification of the deceased and reviews required documentation prior to performing cremation.
  • Fully cleans crematory equipment (e.g., retort) after each cremation to prevent commingling of cremated remains.
  • Maintains log of all cremations in accordance with state and/or local requirements.
  • Provides cremated remains to the Funeral Director for interment or delivery to the client family.
  • Performs general maintenance and care of crematory equipment.
  • Facilitates annual retort inspection, general repairs and maintains service records.
  • Maintains inventory supplies and orders items needed to run crematory.
  • Attends all required safety training meetings as scheduled.
  • Ensures that all required safety equipment requirements and procedures are followed when performing all tasks.
  • Operates crematory in compliance with local laws and guidelines concerning retort operation and storage/use of chemical substances.
  • Assists in loading and unloading of supplies, equipment, and/or merchandise.
  • Maintains crematory building and adjacent areas by cleaning, sweeping, etc.
  • Identifies and remedies all hazards in crematory area and on surrounding grounds.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Competencies
  • Self-Management.
  • Communication Proficiency.
  • Detail Orientation.
  • Thoroughness.
  • Customer Service Orientation.
  • Quality Orientation.

Required Education, Experience, Certifications and Licensure
Four-year degree or equivalent combination of education and experience preferred.
  • At least 1 year of experience as a Crematory Operator preferred.
  • Valid Crematory Operators license.
  • Valid state issued driver's license in good standing and acceptable driving record.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications
  • Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently. Bilingual is a plus.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external customers.
  • Ability to show respect and sensitivity toward client families while working in a physically demanding environment.
  • Attention to detail and follow-through.

Supervisory Responsibility
This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • The duties associated with this position are generally performed in an outdoor setting with extreme temperatures.
  • Outdoor duties may subject the employee to natural elements, such as inclement weather, extreme temperatures, uneven ground, dust, gas, and/or fumes.
  • Duties require work around heavy equipment and excessive noise frequently.
  • Equipment used to perform the essential function of this position includes, but is not limited to; computer, body lift, casket handling/transport devices, crematory retort, personal or company owned vehicle.
  • Employees in this role must have sufficient strength and manual dexterity to operate power equipment and must be willing to work safely and comply with the Company's safety procedures, including wearing any personal protective equipment that may be required.
  • Employees in this role are regularly required to climb, sit, stand, bend, kneel, and frequently lift up to 75 pounds, and may be required to lift up to 100 pounds.
  • Performance of this position's duties also requires power reaching, pushing, and pulling.
  • This position may also require reaching, pushing, and pulling.
  • This position may also be exposed to chemicals and/ or blood borne pathogens. Exposure risk is considered: High
  • Overtime is sometimes necessary or required.

Travel
  • This position may require up to 10 percent out of area and overnight travel.
  • Travel is primarily local occurring during the business day only.

Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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