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Funeral Apprentice Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Northstar Memorial Group

Embalmer Apprentice

Oakland, CA

$25 - $27/hr

NorthStar Memorial Group is seeking an Embalmer Apprentice to join our team at Chapel of the Chimes ... United by a common desire to serve, Funeral Directors and Embalmers at NorthStar share a pride in ...

NorthStar Memorial Group

Embalmer Apprentice

Oakland, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

NorthStar Memorial Group is seeking an Embalmer Apprentice to join our team at Chapel of the Chimes ... United by a common desire to serve, Funeral Directors and Embalmers at NorthStar share a pride in ...

NorthStar Memorial Group

Embalmer Apprentice

Oakland, CA

$25 - $27/hr

NorthStar Memorial Group is seeking an Embalmer Apprentice to join our team at Chapel of the Chimes ... United by a common desire to serve, Funeral Directors and Embalmers at NorthStar share a pride in ...

All JobsFuneral Apprentice JobsFuneral Apprentice Jobs in California

Funeral Apprentice information

See California salary details

$5

$19

$24

How much do funeral apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for funeral apprentice in California is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be a mortuary assistant?

To become a funeral apprentice or mortuary assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to handle sensitive situations; some employers may require certification or training in funeral service practices. On-the-job training is common, and a background in healthcare or science can be beneficial.

What does a typical workday look like for a Funeral Apprentice?

A typical day for a Funeral Apprentice involves assisting licensed funeral directors with preparing the deceased, arranging service logistics, and supporting families throughout the funeral process. You may help with tasks such as documentation, coordinating visitations, embalming under supervision, and setting up ceremonies. The role often includes both office-based work with administrative duties and hands-on work in funeral homes or crematories. Funeral Apprentices work closely with a small team, gaining exposure to every aspect of funeral service, which helps build skills and knowledge for eventual licensure.

What is a Funeral Apprentice job?

A Funeral Apprentice is a trainee who works under the supervision of a licensed funeral director or embalmer to learn the skills and responsibilities of the funeral profession. Duties typically include preparing bodies, assisting with funeral services, meeting with families, and handling administrative tasks. This role provides hands-on experience and is often a step toward obtaining full licensure. Apprentices must follow state regulations and complete required training hours. It is a demanding yet rewarding career focused on providing compassionate care to grieving families.

How much does a funeral apprentice make?

A funeral apprentice typically earns between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Apprentices often work under supervision and may receive additional benefits or stipends during training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Funeral Apprentice position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Funeral Apprentice, you should possess a foundational knowledge of mortuary science, attention to detail, and the ability to follow legal and ethical guidelines, typically demonstrated by enrollment in a funeral service education program or relevant training. Familiarity with embalming equipment, funeral management software, and safety protocols is often required. Compassion, emotional resilience, and strong interpersonal communication skills are vital soft skills for supporting grieving families and working alongside licensed funeral directors. These abilities ensure respectful, organized, and compliant funeral services while maintaining sensitivity to the needs of those experiencing loss.

How to become a mortician's apprentice?

To become a mortician's apprentice, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some states require completion of a formal apprenticeship program or on-the-job training under a licensed funeral director. Gaining knowledge of embalming, casketing, and funeral service procedures, along with obtaining relevant certifications or licenses, is essential for advancement in the field.

Can I work at a morgue with no experience?

Funeral apprenticeships or entry-level positions at morgues typically do not require prior experience, but candidates should be willing to learn and may need to complete training or certifications related to handling human remains and safety procedures. Employers often provide on-the-job training to develop necessary skills in areas such as sanitation, embalming, and respectful handling of bodies.
What are the most commonly searched types of Funeral jobs in California? The most popular types of Funeral jobs in California are:
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What job categories do people searching Funeral Apprentice jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Funeral Apprentice jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Funeral Apprentice jobs? Cities in California with the most Funeral Apprentice job openings:
Funeral Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Funeral Apprentice job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,805 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Embalmer

Catholic Funeral and Cemetery Services of the Diocese of Sacramento, Inc.

Citrus Heights, CA

$19 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Position: Embalmer

Location: Calvary Cemetery and Funeral Center

Category: Non-Exempt

Position Status: Full Time

Schedule: Monday – Friday; Some Weekends and Evenings

Pay Range: $19 - $25 per hour

Supervisor: Reports to the Care Center Manager or other supervisor as may be assigned.

Job Summary: Perform all duties related to the care and preparation of human remains while maintaining the highest standard of customer care.

Essential Functions: The Embalmer will perform a variety of duties which require the exercise of judgment and discretion. This position may have little direct supervision and is expected to determine when and how tasks are accomplished.

  1. Exhibit the highest embalming, cosmetology and restorative skill.
  2. Performs embalming, dressing, cosmetics and casketing of decedents.
  3. Ensure decedents are treated with complete respect at all times.
  4. Be knowledgeable of all programs/services offered by the funeral home.
  5. Maintain designated inventory, materials and supplies as assigned, and report to supervisor.
  6. Use appropriate communication skills with family members, visitors, clergy, etc.
  7. Transfer deceased to and from funeral homes as directed.
  8. Follow proper use and application of appropriate universal precautions as required by all Federal, State and local agencies.
  9. Assure prep room is clean and disinfected at all times, equal to or exceeding state, federal and company standards.
  10. Set up viewing area as directed.
  11. Ensure timely, complete and accurate paperwork.
  12. Assure complete confidentiality is kept and maintained on all company related processes, techniques, services and family information.
  13. Respond cooperatively to requests for assistance from others.
  14. Assists with oversight of Apprentices.
  15. Perform other duties as assigned by Supervisor/Manager

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: Associates Degree in Mortuary Science

Experience: Two years of embalming experience is required.

Licensing: California State Embalmer's License, State of California Driver's License

Skills / Knowledge:

  • Practicing Catholic with general knowledge and understanding of the Catholic Church
  • Displays proficiency in Microsoft Office Products (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook)
  • Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form using correct spelling, grammar and punctuation
  • Demonstrates excellent written and verbal communication skills; excellent phone skills
  • Good organizational skills; handle multiple assignments consecutively and prioritize workload
  • Ability to maintain strict confidentiality
  • Demonstrates a professional temperament and appearance
  • Ability to work and relate to a variety of personalities and cultures with diplomacy, friendliness and poise; able to work in a team-oriented environment

This job requires a background check.

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