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Embalming Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Funeral Director

Seatac, WA · On-site

$29 - $37/hr

Coordinate removal of body to mortuary for preparation including refrigeration, embalming, dressing, casketing, cosmetics, and any other related technical duties. * Interviews family or other ...

Oversee the care and preparation of the remains of fallen Sailors, including embalming duties and final presentation * Prepare for and direct the transportation of remains * Liaison with families and ...

Oversee the care and preparation of the remains of fallen Sailors, including embalming duties and final presentation * Prepare for and direct the transportation of remains * Liaison with families and ...

Oversee the care and preparation of the remains of fallen Sailors, including embalming duties and final presentation * Prepare for and direct the transportation of remains * Liaison with families and ...

Oversee the care and preparation of the remains of fallen Sailors, including embalming duties and final presentation * Prepare for and direct the transportation of remains * Liaison with families and ...

Oversee the care and preparation of the remains of fallen Sailors, including embalming duties and final presentation * Prepare for and direct the transportation of remains * Liaison with families and ...

Oversee the care and preparation of the remains of fallen Sailors, including embalming duties and final presentation * Prepare for and direct the transportation of remains * Liaison with families and ...

Embalming information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$35.8K

$65.2K

$89.3K

How much do embalming jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for embalming in Seattle, WA is $65,233.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,300.00 and $73,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is embalming?

Embalming is the process of preserving a deceased person's body to delay decomposition, typically through the use of chemicals. This process helps maintain the appearance and integrity of the body for viewing at funerals or for transportation over long distances. Embalming can involve arterial injection, cavity treatment, and surface embalming to ensure thorough preservation. The practice is often performed by licensed professionals known as embalmers, who follow specific health and safety regulations.

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 embalming procedures, typically supported by a degree in mortuary science and state licensure. Familiarity with embalming instruments, restorative art techniques, and compliance with legal and health regulations is essential. Strong attention to detail, compassion, and discretion are crucial soft skills in handling sensitive situations and interacting with grieving families. These skills ensure respectful care of the deceased, adherence to safety standards, and the ability to provide comfort and professionalism during difficult times.

What are some common challenges embalmers face when working with families and funeral directors?

Embalmers often work closely with both grieving families and funeral directors to ensure the deceased is presented with dignity and respect. One common challenge is balancing the technical aspects of embalming with the specific wishes of families, which can vary based on cultural or religious practices. Additionally, embalmers must communicate effectively with funeral directors to coordinate timelines and service requirements, all while maintaining sensitivity and professionalism in emotionally charged situations. Developing strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills is crucial for success in this role.

What is the difference between Embalming vs Mortuary Assistant?

AspectEmbalmingMortuary Assistant
Required CertificationsState license, embalming certificationBasic funeral service training, sometimes certification
Work EnvironmentPreparation rooms, funeral homesFuneral homes, preparation rooms
Job ResponsibilitiesPreserving and disinfecting bodies, cosmetic workAssisting with body preparation, cleaning, and setup

Embalming involves specialized skills in preserving bodies through chemical processes and requires specific certifications. Mortuary assistants support embalming and other funeral services, often with less technical training. Both roles work in funeral homes and contribute to body preparation, but embalming is more technical and certification-intensive, while mortuary assisting focuses on support tasks.

Is embalming a good career?

Embalming is a specialized profession that involves preparing deceased bodies for funerals, requiring knowledge of anatomy, chemistry, and attention to detail. It offers stable employment opportunities, often with a need for licensing and certification, and can involve irregular hours and emotional challenges. Whether it is a good career depends on personal interest in the field and comfort with the job's demands.

Is it hard to become an embalming?

Becoming an embalmer requires completing a state-approved mortuary science program, obtaining licensure, and gaining practical experience. The process involves studying anatomy, chemistry, and embalming techniques, and it can take several years to become fully qualified. The job demands attention to detail, physical stamina, and adherence to health and safety regulations.

What qualifications do you need for embalming?

Embalmers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete an accredited embalming program or apprenticeship. Licensing or certification is often required, which involves passing a state exam and demonstrating knowledge of anatomy, chemistry, and sanitation practices.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embalming jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Embalming jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Embalming jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Embalming jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Embalming jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Embalming jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Embalming jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Embalming job openings:

Infographic showing various Embalming job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, and 48% Part Time. Highlights an 59% Physical, and 41% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,233 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Funeral Director and Embalmer

Service Corporation International

Bremerton, WA • On-site

$53K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Service Corporation International rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 9 rated funeral services


Job description

Our associates celebrate lives. We celebrate our associates.

Compassionately facilitates funeral arrangement discussions with deceased next of kin and presides over visitation, funeral, and graveside services in accordance with family's wishes; company expectations; and local, state, or federal laws. May perform Embalming responsibilities. As the licensed Funeral Director, responsible for the compliance with all mortuary, health, and vital statistics regulation compliance within the funeral establishment(s).

Job Responsibilities

Arrangements Conference

  • Receives or initiates call to deceased next of kin. Exhibiting concern and empathy, obtains or confirms deceased and family contact information, briefly discusses needs (including languages), schedules Arrangement appointment, and emails appointment confirmation.
  • May perform removals or transfers adhering to company standards and processes. Cares for deceased in a respectful manner. Updates removal status in proprietary software.
  • Greets next of kin and escorts to meeting space. Initiates and facilitates Arrangements Conference while assessing needs and summarizing desired outcomes. Discusses available life insurance and available benefits, such as Veteran. Promotes funeral, cemetery, and crematory services and merchandise such as catering, flowers, music, and Ever Lasting Memory products.
  • Transitions Arrangement Conference to Funeral Services Counselor/Advisor to present cemetery property and merchandise options, pricing, and contract completion. In absence of an FSA/FSC, may perform FSA/FSC responsibilities.
  • Responsible for reviewing and authorizing merchandise and service contract revisions.

Directing Services

  • Confirms authorization to proceed with service Arrangements. Presides as Master of Ceremonies (MC) for visitation, funeral, or graveside services in a professional, organized, and caring manner consistent with Company standards. Shall be present for graveside services included in the purchase agreement. Shall be present when the casket containing a human body is placed in a grave, crypt, or burial vault and verifies that any personal belongings are removed from the deceased prior to burial per the Arrangements.
  • Visually inspects deceased, adjusts casket dressing, deceased attire or makeup, or communicates concerns to preparation staff. Visually inspects Services Arrangements (visitation, funeral, or graveside) against contractual arrangements and the next of kin expectations; initiates corrective action as appropriate; may provide instruction or guidance to services team members.
  • Interacts with the family to fulfill the death care requests. While interacting with family and guests, obtains leads for pre-need services.

Event Planning

  • Perform a variety of event planning responsibilities including but not limited to resource planning and ordering of music, flowers, or catering to fulfill Arrangement requests. Produces MeM products that may include scanning photos, ordering of memorabilia or stationary, creating electronic presentations, writing obituaries, and creating on-line memorials. Prior to event, prepares event room including but not limited to set-up chairs, tables, flowers, guest books, and appropriate decor. Post event cleans chairs, tables, floors, proper storage of items, identifies property in need of repair, and courier/deliver family memorabilia to home.
  • May perform a variety of attendant duties including but not limited to parking lot attendant, driver, usher, pallbearer, or courier.
  • May attends community or charity events to represent and promote the location or market.

Embalming

  • Cares for deceased in a respectful manner. Following company processes and procedures, verifies identification, reviews embalming authorization. Following company processes and adhering to hazardous waste procedures cleans and embalms body; uses scalpels, pumps, tubes, and equipment to replace bodily fluids/waste with embalming fluids; performs restorations, styling hair, applying cosmetics, dressing body, and other preparation required for human remains.
  • Verifies appropriate casket and lining according to contract. Dresses casket and lays deceased. Updates status in propriety software.
  • Maintains preparation room, cleans soiled equipment, properly disposes of hazardous waste, and promotes a safe work environment.
  • Inventories and reorders supplies.

General

  • Works under general guidance. New associates are learning to apply licensure to business environment complying with regulations, policies, and procedures; work may be peer reviewed for accuracy, quality, and education; collaborates with peers or manager for assistance and guidance. Exhibits accountability for behaviors. Ensures compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Takes the initiative to discuss assignments, expectations, priorities and deadlines as well as seek guidance and coaching from manager. Notifies manager when workload is light and volunteers for additional work. Adjusts effectively to work within new work structures, processes, requirements or cultures. Additional responsibilities as requested or assigned.

Minimum Requirements

Education & Licenses

  • Graduated from an accredited school or college of mortuary science

Certification/License

  • Current Funeral Director and Embalmer dual license within the practicing state
  • Valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving record required to operate company owned vehicles

Experience

  • Industry experience is preferred

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Cognitive Ability including reason, plan, identify problems, learn quickly, learn from experience, and appropriately apply learning to new situations.
  • Process and results oriented, motivated to keep projects moving ahead by removing obstacles and exploring alternatives
  • Must have a positive attitude, a drive to continually advance your understanding of the industry and business, and is highly self-motivated
  • Ability to build professional and trusting business relations
  • Professional written and verbal communication skills
  • Public speaking skills with the ability to influence and gain consensus
  • Proficient using databases in automated processes
  • Proficient MS Office skills

Work Conditions

Work Environment
  • Work is both indoors and outdoors during all seasons and weather
  • Professional business attire required when in contact with families
Work Postures
  • Frequent, continuous periods of time sitting or standing, up 6 hours per day
  • Frequent climbing stairs to access buildings frequently
Physical Demands
  • Physical effort requiring manual dexterity is required, includes paperwork, calculators, computers and phone usage
  • Ability to push and pull up to 150 pounds on flat and inclined flooring or ramps
Work Hours
  • Flexibility of availability may be necessary as services may occur outside of normal business hours and working nights and weekends is frequently necessary.

Pay:

  • $28.00 - $35.00 an hour based on experience

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: 98312Category (Portal Searching): OperationsJob Location: US-WA - Bremerton

What Service Corporation International employees say

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