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Crematory Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Crematory Operator

Oakland, CA · On-site

$27 - $29/hr

Crematory Professionals at NorthStar are part of a compassionate community dedicated to upholding the highest standards of care and respect for the deceased and their families. A Crematory Operator ...

$18/hr

Delivers ashes from Crematory to Funeral Home * Assists with removals * May be required to ensure company vehicles are clean and fueled, prior to and after services * Adheres to all Company and ...

Superintendent

Oakland, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Overseeing general facility maintenance of mausoleum, columbarium, crematory, and funeral home, includes: * Exterior/interior lighting maintenance. * Inspection of roof drains regularly. * Minor ...

Superintendent

Oakland, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Overseeing general facility maintenance of mausoleum, columbarium, crematory, and funeral home, includes: * Exterior/interior lighting maintenance. * Inspection of roof drains regularly. * Minor ...

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Crematory information

See California salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do crematory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for crematory in California is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a crematory operator?

Crematory operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the cremation process in funeral homes or dedicated crematories. They operate cremation equipment, handle the remains with care, and ensure all procedures comply with legal and safety regulations. Their duties also include maintaining equipment, keeping detailed records, and sometimes interacting with families to answer questions about the process. Proper training and certification are typically required to work as a crematory operator.

What jobs are there at a crematory?

Jobs at a crematory include crematory technician, crematory operator, and crematory director. Crematory technicians and operators have similar duties, which include helping to prepare the remains, loading bodies into the crematory, operating cremating equipment and machinery, and collecting the remains for burial. Crematory workers’ responsibilities also include helping families fill out paperwork and preparing funerals at a crematory or arranging transport of remains. Crematory directors manage technicians, operators, and other staff as well as perform administrative tasks, such as preparing schedules and budgets.

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 attention to detail, knowledge of cremation procedures, and compliance with legal and safety regulations, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certification. Familiarity with crematory equipment, maintenance protocols, and record-keeping systems is typically required. Compassion, professionalism, and discretion are crucial soft skills for interacting with grieving families and handling sensitive tasks. These skills and qualities ensure respectful, safe, and efficient operation of cremation services while maintaining trust and dignity for clients.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a crematory, and how can they be managed?

Professionals working in a crematory often face emotional challenges due to the sensitive nature of handling human remains and interacting with grieving families. Additionally, the role requires strict adherence to safety protocols and regulatory compliance, which can be demanding. Managing these challenges involves maintaining professionalism, practicing self-care, participating in ongoing training, and relying on a supportive team environment to ensure both emotional well-being and operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Crematory vs Funeral Director?

AspectCrematoryFuneral Director
CertificationsTypically requires crematory operator certification or licenseRequires funeral service license or certification
Work EnvironmentOperates in cremation facilities, handling cremation equipmentWorks in funeral homes, coordinating services and arrangements
Industry UsageSpecializes in cremation processes within funeral servicesProvides comprehensive funeral planning and services

While both roles are part of the funeral industry, a crematory focuses on the cremation process itself, operating specialized equipment, whereas a funeral director manages the overall funeral arrangements, including services, transportation, and client support. Understanding these differences helps families choose the appropriate professional for their needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Crematory jobs in California?

The most popular types of Crematory jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Crematory jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Crematory jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Crematory jobs?

Cities in California with the most Crematory job openings:

Infographic showing various Crematory job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,752 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Crematory Operator

Angelus Rosedale Cemetery- Mortuary - Crematory

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Crematory Operator

Location: Angelus Rosedale Cemetery

Reports to: Crematory Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt-Full-Time 40 Hrs.

Rate: TBD

 

JOB OVERVIEW

The Crematory Operator/Technician plays a crucial role in the funeral industry by upholding

the highest standards of precision, respect, legal compliance, and compassion towards the

families that we are privileged to serve.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES

• Receives remains making certain all documentation is complete and identification of the

  deceased is accurate

• Ensures handling of the deceased is with the utmost respect and dignity from the time the

  remains are received until completion of the cremation process

• Maintains chain-of-custody documentation and issuance of a numbered stainless steel

  disc which accompanies the body through every step of the cremation process

• Maintains crematory logs, company reports, and state-specific reports

• Documents divided remains to ensure proper placement in multiple containers

• Performs setup of witnessing area and appropriately answers questions regarding the

 cremation process for family and friends of the deceased

• Maintains the crematory equipment, crematory office, and adjacent facilities which include

  the entry area, witnessing area, and restroom

• Promptly reports any/all crematory equipment anomalies and/or repairs

• Coordinates cremations with the cemetery office, cemetery staff, and funeral homes

• Delivers cremated remains and all corresponding documents from the crematory to the

  main office placement in the safe

 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Valid driver's license

• Minimum of one year experience as a crematory apprentice or crematory

  operator/technician

• Ability to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work

• Ability to maintain effective professional relationships and communication with staff,

  vendors, and/or third parties

• Self-starter with strong initiative and ability to work independently

 

REQUIRED PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Lift, push, or pull caskets or cremation containers containing human remains with or

without assistance from vehicles, carts, church trucks, various rooms, and viewing areas

• Exposure to high temperatures, mechanical equipment, and industrial noise

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and work for long periods in a high heat environment

• May require overtime

 

EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

• Medical

•  Life Insurance

• Supplemental Dental Insurance

• 401k Plan with company match

• Paid Time Off