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Embalming Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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$12

$22

$38

How much do embalming apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for embalming apprentice in Chicago, IL is $22.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Embalming Apprentice, you need a foundational understanding of human anatomy, sanitation procedures, and compliance with health and safety regulations, typically acquired through formal mortuary science education or on-the-job training. Familiarity with embalming instruments, chemical handling, and documentation systems is essential. Attention to detail, discretion, and strong interpersonal skills help maintain professionalism and support grieving families. These skills ensure dignified care of the deceased, adherence to legal standards, and compassionate service during sensitive times.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by an Embalming Apprentice during their training period?

As an Embalming Apprentice, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to the emotional aspects of working with grieving families and the deceased, mastering technical skills like proper chemical handling and anatomical restoration, and maintaining strict adherence to health and safety regulations. Apprentices often work irregular hours, and the learning curve can be steep due to the sensitive and precise nature of the work. Support from experienced mentors and a willingness to learn are essential for overcoming these challenges and developing confidence in your role.

What are embalming apprentices?

Embalming apprentices are individuals who are training under the supervision of licensed embalmers to learn the skills and techniques necessary for the embalming process. They assist with preparing bodies for funerals by cleaning, preserving, and restoring them, as well as learning about health, safety, and legal regulations. This apprenticeship is a crucial step toward becoming a licensed embalmer, providing hands-on experience and knowledge of funeral service practices.

What is the difference between Embalming Apprentice vs Embalmer?

AspectEmbalming ApprenticeEmbalmer
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and enrollment in embalming training programsRequires state licensure, completion of apprenticeship, and passing licensing exams
Work EnvironmentAssists in embalming under supervision, working in funeral homes or mortuariesPerforms embalming independently, managing preparation of bodies in funeral homes
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning embalming techniques, assisting with procedures, gaining hands-on experienceExecuting embalming procedures, ensuring proper preservation and presentation of bodies

The Embalming Apprentice is in training, gaining practical experience under supervision, while the Embalmer is a licensed professional responsible for embalming bodies independently. Both roles are essential in the funeral industry, with apprentices progressing toward becoming fully licensed embalmers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embalming jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Embalming jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Embalming Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL? For Embalming Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embalming Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Embalming Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Embalming Apprentice jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Embalming Apprentice job openings:
Embalming Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embalming Apprentice job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,187 per year, or $22.7 per hour.
Funeral Director/Embalmer

Funeral Director/Embalmer

Service Corporation International

Forest Park, IL • On-site

$27 - $49/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

Service Corporation International rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 8 rated funeral services

Job description

Our associates celebrate lives. We celebrate our associates.

Provides customer service in all areas of funeral arrangements, cremation ceremonies and interment to assist families following the loss of a loved one. Implements choices made by the families or legal representative regarding the funeral, final disposition of the body and memorialization of the individual. Interacts with the family to fulfill death care needs.

Job Responsibilities

  • Performs on-call responsibilities including taking first calls, talking with families, answering questions, providing initial details, and; conducting transfers
  • Supervises and cares for the deceased in a respectful manner while performing a variety of tasks such as: verifying identification; obtaining authorization for embalming; embalming; dressing, styling hair and/or applying cosmetics; preparing cremated remains
  • Arranges and conducts funeral and memorial ceremonies in a professional, organized and caring manner consistent with company policies and procedures
  • Negotiates and enters into funeral contracts.
  • Handles contracts, legal documents, and collection of payment in accordance with company policies
  • Ensures client families are informed of special recognition/services available for veterans and ensures the delivery of selected recognition/services
  • Arranges for the interment or cremation of human remains
  • Confirms authorization to proceed with the service arrangements
  • Supervises/assists in funeral services by: supervising the parking of cars; ushering; driving funeral vehicles; assisting at chapel and church services; assisting at the cemetery; delivering of flowers, caskets, urn, photos and other personal keepsakes or mementos of client families; setting up and removal of chairs, and; participating at special functions
  • Ensures adherence to all applicable professional, municipal, provincial/state and federal licensing authority, regulations and rules
  • Provides aftercare in absence of Family Service Counselor
  • Ensures potential pre-need referrals are shared with Family Service Counselors
  • Prepares and accurately completes documents and online entries related to services, cremations, maintenance
  • Retains heritage and grows market share through active involvement with community, religious and other organizations

Minimum Requirements

Education

  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Completion of a dual degree training program at an accredited mortuary college or technical school specializing in funeral and mortuary science as required by state/province law and as prescribed by each state board

Experience

  • Embalmer, Apprentice or Funeral Director, Apprentice as required by state/provincial law
  • 2 years directly related experience preferred

Certification/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 with an acceptable driving record

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Basic knowledge of religious and fraternal organizations customs.
  • Knowledge of computers and some software including MS Office products required
  • High level of compassion and integrity
  • Good communication skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Ability to multi task and set priorities
  • Detail oriented

Pay: $27.00-49.00 an hour

Benefits: Medical*Dental*Vision*Flexible Spending Accounts (health care and dependent care)*Health Savings Account with Company Contribution*Sick Leave*Short-Term Disability*Long-Term Disability*Life Insurance*Voluntary Accidental Death or Dismemberment Insurance*Dependent Life Insurance*SCI 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Company match*Employee Assistance Program

Postal Code: 60130Category (Portal Searching): OperationsJob Location: US-IL - Forest Park

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