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Funeral Apprenticeship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Burns Funeral Home in Elko, NV is seeking an Apprentice funeral director/embalmer/arranger to assist with all aspects of funeral services including planning, arranging, embalming, directing and ...

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Burns Funeral Home in Elko, NV is seeking an Apprentice funeral director/embalmer/arranger to assist with all aspects of funeral services including planning, arranging, embalming, directing and ...

Embalmer, Apprentice, Mortuary Practioner or Funeral Director, Apprentice as required by state/provincial law * 2 years directly related experience preferred Certification/Licenses * Must meet all ...

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We are looking to add to our staff an Illinoice licensed funeral director/embalmer or a recent graduated apprentice. We are located in Northern Illinois and have facilities in seven locations.

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Funeral Apprenticeship information

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$5

$19

$25

How much do funeral apprenticeship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for funeral apprenticeship in the United States is $19.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a funeral apprentice make?

Funeral apprentices typically earn between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Apprentices often work under supervision while learning funeral service skills and may receive additional benefits or stipends during their training period.

Can I work at a morgue with no experience?

Funeral apprenticeships typically require some background in healthcare or related fields, but entry-level positions at a morgue may be available to individuals without prior experience. Training is usually provided on the job, and relevant skills include attention to detail and the ability to handle sensitive situations. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the jurisdiction.

What is the difference between Funeral Apprenticeship vs Funeral Director?

AspectFuneral ApprenticeshipFuneral Director
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and on-the-job trainingRequires licensing, certification, and often an associate or bachelor's degree in mortuary science
Work EnvironmentHands-on training alongside licensed professionals in funeral homesSupervises funeral services, manages operations, and interacts with families
Industry UsageEntry-level role for learning funeral service proceduresLicensed professional responsible for funeral arrangements and management

In summary, a Funeral Apprenticeship is an entry-level training position focusing on learning funeral service skills, while a Funeral Director is a licensed professional who manages funeral arrangements and oversees services.

What are some common challenges faced during a funeral apprenticeship, and how can they be managed?

During a funeral apprenticeship, apprentices often encounter emotionally challenging situations, such as supporting grieving families and handling sensitive arrangements. Balancing hands-on responsibilities—like preparing services and assisting with administrative tasks—while learning industry regulations and ethical standards can also be demanding. Managing these challenges involves maintaining professionalism, seeking guidance from experienced mentors, and practicing self-care to handle emotional stress. Open communication within the team and ongoing feedback are crucial for personal and professional growth throughout the apprenticeship.

What is a funeral apprenticeship?

A funeral apprenticeship is a supervised training program where individuals learn the skills necessary to become a licensed funeral director or embalmer. During the apprenticeship, trainees work under the guidance of experienced funeral professionals to gain hands-on experience in preparing bodies, planning services, and supporting grieving families. This period is typically required by state licensing boards and can last from one to three years, depending on local regulations. Completing a funeral apprenticeship is an essential step toward a career in funeral services, providing practical knowledge and exposure to all aspects of the profession.

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 coursework in mortuary science. Apprentices work under licensed morticians to gain hands-on experience with funeral services, embalming, and preparation of bodies, often while pursuing relevant certifications or licenses. The process involves applying to funeral homes or apprenticeship programs and meeting state-specific licensing requirements.

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

To thrive as a Funeral Apprentice, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn about funeral service procedures and regulations. Familiarity with embalming equipment, funeral management software, and compliance training or state licensure requirements is often necessary. Compassion, professionalism, and strong communication skills help apprentices provide support to grieving families and work effectively with colleagues. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering respectful, efficient service and upholding the dignity of the funeral profession.

What does an apprentice do at a funeral home?

A funeral apprenticeship involves assisting funeral directors with tasks such as preparing bodies, arranging transportation, setting up funeral services, and maintaining the funeral home environment. Apprentices learn skills like embalming, casketing, and customer service while working under supervision to gain industry experience.
More about Funeral Apprenticeship jobs
What cities are hiring for Funeral Apprenticeship jobs? Cities with the most Funeral Apprenticeship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Funeral Apprenticeship jobs? The most popular types of Funeral Apprenticeship jobs are:
What states have the most Funeral Apprenticeship jobs? States with the most job openings for Funeral Apprenticeship jobs include:
Infographic showing various Funeral Apprenticeship job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,333 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Funeral Apprentice

Milestone Funeral Partner

Montpelier, VT • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Funeral Apprentice


Under the guidance of a licensed funeral director, implements choices made by the families’ legal representatives regarding the funeral, final disposition of the body and memorialization of the individual. Provides customer service in all areas of funeral arrangements, cremation ceremonies and internment to assist families following the loss of a loved one. Provides exemplary personalized and professional service.


JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

  • May perform 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
  • 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 or currently enrolled in 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

  • Typically requires a minimum of 6 months experience in a funeral home, crematory or cemetery

Certification/Licenses

  • Must meet all licensing requirements in applicable state/province as required by law 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 Suite required
  • High level of compassion and integrity
  • Good communication skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Ability to multi task and set priorities
  • Detail oriented