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Funeral Apprenticeship Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Funeral Apprenticeship information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$5

$20

$26

How much do funeral apprenticeship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for funeral apprenticeship in Riverside, CA is $20.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a funeral apprentice?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Funeral Apprenticeship jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Funeral Apprenticeship jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Funeral Apprenticeship jobs in Riverside, CA? For Funeral Apprenticeship jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Funeral Apprenticeship jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Funeral Apprenticeship jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Funeral Apprenticeship jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Funeral Apprenticeship job openings:
Infographic showing various Funeral Apprenticeship job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,078 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Service Corporation International rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 94 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 9 rated funeral services


Job description

Our associates celebrate lives. We celebrate our associates.

Properly receive and process human remains and ensures that the cremated remains are returned to the authorized person(s) according to company procedures and applicable Federal, State and Municipal regulations. Duties must be performed consistent with company mission and values and adherence to company policies and procedures.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Cares for deceased in a respectful manner while performing all the tasks involved in the cremation process
  • Receives remains and ensures all documentation is complete and visual identification of the deceased is complete and accurate.
  • Completes all required documentation with respect to cremation process and equipment maintenance
  • Adheres to all professional, municipal, state/provincial and federal licensing authority regulations applicable to the cremation of human remains
  • Adheres to all applicable policies and procedures
  • Maintains all Company logs/reports and required state-specific reports
  • Maintains all chain of custody paperwork
  • Promotes a safe work environment by being aware of and practicing universal precautions and adopting general principles of safe conduct
  • Maintains the crematorium, equipment and adjacent facilities
  • May deliver/release cremated remains to appropriate funeral home or proper authority
  • Other duties as directed by management

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education

  • High school diploma or equivalent. Completion of a formal program at a college or technical school specializing in funeral service or mortuary science where required by state law.

Experience

  • Minimum one to three months experience as an apprentice

Certification/Licenses

  • Certified Crematory Operator as required by state law; valid driver's license required if performing removals and transfers of bodies and delivering cremated remains

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Familiar with the basic operation of industrial equipment to include basic trouble-shooting skills
  • Basic computer skills
  • Ability to maintain effective relationships with all affiliates and/or third parties
  • Good communication skills
  • High level of compassion and integrity
  • Problem solving skills
  • Ability to multi task and set priorities
  • Detail oriented

Compensation:
Salary: $21.00 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: 92404Category (Portal Searching): OperationsJob Location: US-CA - San Bernardino

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