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Embalmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bliley's

Embalmer/Funeral Director

Richmond, VA · On-site

$49K - $64K/yr

Description Working for Bliley's For more than a century, Bliley's Funeral Homes & Cremation Center has stood for service, trust, and professionalism. Joining our team means being part of a legacy of ...

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$5

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How much do embalmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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.

What is an embalmer?

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 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.

What does an embalmer 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.

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 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.

More about Embalmer jobs

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The most popular types of Embalmer jobs in Virginia are:

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For Embalmer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Cities in Virginia with the most Embalmer job openings:

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Embalmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embalmer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,447 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Embalmer

Service Corporation International

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Service Corporation International rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 96 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: 23462Category (Portal Searching): OperationsJob Location: US-VA - Virginia Beach

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