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Embalmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Service Corporation International

Embalmer

Richmond, VA

$49K - $63K/yr

Embalmer, Apprentice experience as required by state/provincial law * 2 years of experience in a 200-call minimum/year funeral firm embalming facility preferred Licenses * Must meet all licensing ...

Service Corporation International

Embalmer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$49K - $63K/yr

Embalmer, Apprentice experience as required by state/provincial law * 2 years of experience in a 200-call minimum/year funeral firm embalming facility preferred Licenses * Must meet all licensing ...

U.S. Navy

Mortician

Virginia Beach, VA

Must hold a license as a funeral director and embalmer in one of the 50 states WORK ENVIRONMENT Navy Morticians are shore-based and assigned to Navy Casualty. While most all Navy Mortician positions ...

U.S. Navy

Mortician

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

Must hold a license as a funeral director and embalmer in one of the 50 states WORK ENVIRONMENT Navy Morticians are shore-based and assigned to Navy Casualty. While most all Navy Mortician positions ...

U.S. Navy

Mortician

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

Must hold a license as a funeral director and embalmer in one of the 50 states WORK ENVIRONMENT Navy Morticians are shore-based and assigned to Navy Casualty. While most all Navy Mortician positions ...

U.S. Navy

Mortician

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

Must hold a license as a funeral director and embalmer in one of the 50 states WORK ENVIRONMENT Navy Morticians are shore-based and assigned to Navy Casualty. While most all Navy Mortician positions ...

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Embalmer information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$23

$27

How much do embalmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for embalmer in Virginia is $23.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.52 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I work at a morgue with no experience?

Embalmers typically require specialized training and certification, which often includes an apprenticeship or formal education. While some entry-level positions may be available to those without experience, most employers prefer candidates with relevant training or background in mortuary science. Certification from a recognized body is usually necessary to perform embalming duties independently.

What are embalmers?

Embalmers are professionals who prepare deceased bodies for burial or cremation by preserving them using chemical solutions and specialized techniques. Their work involves disinfecting, restoring, and cosmetically enhancing the body to ensure it is presentable for viewing and funeral services. Embalmers often work in funeral homes, mortuaries, or medical facilities, and they must follow specific legal and health regulations. In addition to technical skills, embalmers need compassion and sensitivity when interacting with grieving families.

What is the difference between Embalmer vs Mortician?

AspectEmbalmerMortician
CredentialsState license, embalming certificationState license, funeral director certification
Work EnvironmentPreparation rooms, funeral homesFuneral homes, administrative offices
ResponsibilitiesEmbalming, body preservationArranging funerals, client services

Embalmers focus primarily on body preservation through embalming, while morticians handle both embalming and funeral arrangements. In many cases, morticians are also licensed funeral directors, overseeing the entire funeral process. Both roles require similar certifications and work in funeral homes, but their core duties differ, with embalming being the primary task for embalmers and client service for morticians.

What do embalmers get paid?

Embalmers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Salaries can vary based on certifications, the complexity of cases handled, and the funeral home's size and location.

What are some common challenges embalmers face in their daily work, and how can they be managed?

Embalmers often encounter challenges such as working with grieving families, handling bodies in various conditions, and adhering to strict health and safety regulations. Managing these challenges requires strong emotional resilience, meticulous attention to detail, and thorough knowledge of sanitation procedures. Effective communication skills and empathy are also essential when interacting with families and colleagues. Many embalmers find that ongoing professional development and support from experienced team members help them navigate these aspects successfully.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Embalmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embalmer, you need in-depth knowledge of human anatomy, chemistry, and mortuary science, typically supported by a degree in mortuary science and required state licensure. Familiarity with embalming instruments, restorative art techniques, and compliance with health and safety regulations is essential. Strong attention to detail, compassion, and discretion are vital soft skills for handling sensitive situations with grieving families. These skills and qualities ensure that embalmers provide respectful, safe, and high-quality care for the deceased and their loved ones.

Is becoming a mortician embalmer worth it?

Embalmers, as part of funeral service careers, perform tasks such as preparing bodies for burial and require certification and strong attention to detail. The profession offers stable employment opportunities, but it involves emotionally demanding work and irregular hours. Salary and job satisfaction vary based on location and experience.

Is it hard to become an embalmer?

Becoming an embalmer requires completing a state-approved mortuary science program, obtaining licensure which often involves passing a written and practical exam, and gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships or internships. The process can take several years and demands attention to detail, technical skills, and emotional resilience.

What Do Embalmers Do?

An embalmer prepares deceased bodies for funerals and public viewings through the use of chemicals and cosmetics. The process begins with a thorough cleansing of the deceased with an aseptic soap. The embalmer must then remove waste material and drain the body. The blood that is drained is replaced with an embalming fluid that acts as a preservative. The embalmer will then stitch the incisions and apply make-up to make the body appear as normal as possible.

More about Embalmer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Embalmer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Embalmer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Embalmer jobs in Virginia? For Embalmer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embalmer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Embalmer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Embalmer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Embalmer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Embalmer jobs in VA? For Embalmer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Embalmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embalmer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,447 per year, or $23.8 per hour.
Embalmer

Embalmer

Service Corporation International

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 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.

Performs all embalming activities of the deceased correctly and respectfully.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Cares for deceased in a respectful manner while performing a variety of tasks which include: verifying identification and embalming authorization; performing restorations; completing removals and transfers; dressing, styling hair and or applying cosmetics, and; any other preparation required for human remains
  • Adheres to all applicable professional, municipal, state/provincial and federal licensing authority regulations
  • Assists with maintenance of preparation room and the facility
  • Cleans soiled equipment and hazardous material spills
  • Ensures hazardous materials and spills are handled in accordance with the Material Data Safety Sheets
  • Assists with chemical and supply inventory
  • Receives caskets and other funeral home supplies
  • Promotes a safe work environment by being aware of and practicing universal precautions and adopting general principles of safe conduct

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Graduation from accredited mortuary college or other degree as required by state/province law

Experience

  • Embalmer, Apprentice experience as required by state/provincial law
  • 2 years of experience in a 200-call minimum/year funeral firm embalming facility preferred

Licenses

  • Must meet all licensing requirements in applicable state/province as required by law and as prescribed by each state board
  • Current state/province issued driver's license

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Acceptable driving record
  • Ability to lift over 75 pounds
  • Knowledge of computers and some software including MS Office products required
  • High level of compassion and integrity
  • Good communication skills
  • Problem solving skills
Postal Code: 22042Category (Portal Searching): OperationsJob Location: US-VA - Falls Church

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