1

Funeral Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Funeral Director/Embalmer

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Associate's Degree in Mortuary Science required * Dual Licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer required * Must meet Michigan licensing requirements * Several years of industry experience preferred ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Funeral Associate information

See salary details

$27K

$141.2K

$310.5K

How much do funeral associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for funeral associate in the United States is $141,209.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $212,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be a mortuary assistant?

To become a funeral associate, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Relevant skills include attention to detail, compassion, and physical stamina; some employers may prefer or require certification in funeral service or related fields. On-the-job training is common, and a clean background check is often necessary.

What are some common challenges faced by Funeral Associates, and how can they be managed effectively?

Funeral Associates often encounter emotionally charged situations, as they support grieving families during difficult times. Balancing empathy with professionalism is essential, as the role requires careful attention to detail in arranging services while maintaining compassion. Time management is also important, since coordinating multiple services and logistics can be demanding. Effective communication with families and colleagues helps ensure that all details are handled smoothly, making teamwork and emotional resilience valuable assets in this role.

What is the difference between Funeral Associate vs Funeral Director?

AspectFuneral AssociateFuneral Director
CertificationsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingFuneral Service License, apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentFuneral homes, assisting with arrangementsOverseeing funeral services, client consultations
ResponsibilitiesPreparing bodies, setting up servicesPlanning funerals, coordinating logistics

Funeral Associates typically assist with preparations and support tasks within funeral homes, requiring basic certifications and on-the-job training. Funeral Directors hold licensure, manage funeral arrangements, and oversee services. While Funeral Associates focus on operational support, Funeral Directors handle client interactions and planning. Both roles are essential in the funeral industry, but they differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

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

To thrive as a Funeral Associate, you need a solid understanding of funeral service protocols, customer service, and attention to detail, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant training. Familiarity with scheduling software, case management systems, and basic embalming or preparation tools is typically beneficial. Compassion, discretion, and strong interpersonal skills help you support grieving families and coordinate smoothly with team members. These skills ensure respectful, efficient service and meaningful experiences for clients during emotionally challenging times.

How much do funeral assistants get paid?

Funeral assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What does a funeral associate do?

A funeral associate assists with funeral service preparations, including handling arrangements, preparing the deceased, and supporting families. They may also help with administrative tasks, coordinate logistics, and ensure the smooth operation of funeral services, often working in a funeral home environment and following industry standards.

What are Funeral Associates and what do they do?

Funeral Associates are professionals who assist with planning, organizing, and carrying out funeral services. They support families during the grieving process by helping with arrangements, handling paperwork, and coordinating logistics such as transportation and scheduling. Their duties may also include preparing the venue, assisting during ceremonies, and providing information about available services. Funeral Associates play a compassionate role, ensuring that all aspects of the funeral proceed smoothly and respectfully.

Can I work at a morgue with no experience?

Funeral associates typically do not need prior experience, as training is usually provided on the job. Basic skills in communication, compassion, and attention to detail are important, and some employers may require a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification or training in handling body procedures can be beneficial but is often obtained after employment.
More about Funeral Associate jobs
What cities are hiring for Funeral Associate jobs? Cities with the most Funeral Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Funeral jobs? The most popular types of Funeral jobs are:
What states have the most Funeral Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Funeral Associate jobs include:

Are you a Funeral Home Manager, who is an active practicing Catholic? Join a culture of compassion!

Catholic Cemeteries and Funeral Homes

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

General Job Brief
Under the direct supervision of the COO, the Funeral Home Manager is responsible for day-to-day operations of the funeral home. The Funeral Home Manager supervises the Funeral Associates and Funeral Director/Embalmers; oversees the scheduling of burials and funerals, monitors all funeral home at-need contracts, and works with leadership to develop on-going training for staff.
Typical Duties (The following duties are those typically required to do the job but are not intended to include all duties that comprise the job content. Typical duties are intended to illustrate the diverse and various levels of difficulty of the job.)
  • Service and Attitude: It is expected that each employee of DOPCCFH will provide a professional approach and decorum with customers and fellow staff members.
  • Oversee day-to-day operation of the funeral home.
  • Set goals and work effectively toward them.
  • Assist with recruiting, hiring and training of facility employees with input from appropriate Executive Team members.
  • Evaluate employees' performance and goals.
  • Communicate all existing and new policies of DOPCCFH.
  • Maintains compliance with all local, state and federal laws relating to the handling of human remains.
  • Maintain all on-going and monthly mortuary reports as required.
  • Compliment corporate promotions and community relation efforts by visiting funeral homes, hospitals, hospice facilities, and parishes in service area. Maintain a written log of these contacts.
  • Participate in Management Team meetings when required.
  • Provide and present a General Price List to inquiring parties as well as all service options.
  • Responsible for OSHA compliance of the funeral home staff and facilities.
  • Monitors all at-need funeral contracts and folders to assure compliance with the Arizona State Board of Funeral Directors & Embalmers and the Federal Trade Commission.
  • Take first calls, make transfers and work in the preparation room.
  • Prepare funeral service arrangements including completing all required documents.
  • Maintains highest standards of ethics, morality, and confidentiality at all times.

Other Duties and Responsibilities
Collaboration, confidentiality, and integrity are critical to success in this role. Effectively communicate any concerns or suggestions to the appropriate Executive Team member. Completing other duties and tasks with utmost integrity and professionalism, as directed by the COO, or their representative and not necessarily mentioned in this description, will be expected.
Minimum Qualifications ( Classification is typically expected to possess.)
Possess required state education and license requirements for Arizona licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer or Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution with five years of funeral industry experience. Practicing Roman Catholic desired.
Ability and Skills (Classification is typically expected to possess or show potential of satisfactory development when placed in the job.)
  • Demonstrated leadership skills.
  • Must be emotionally able to deal with death, grief, and stress.
  • Must exhibit excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Thorough understanding of funeral regulations and laws.
  • Ability to dress professionally (in suits / dresses or other appropriate attire).
  • Ability to work under pressure, take initiative, be creative and anticipate solutions to problems; exercise good judgment in emergency situations and when working with varied personalities and cultures; must be able to work with frequent interruptions.
  • Ability to wear protective gear as required by OSHA.
  • Ability to work with toxic chemicals including formaldehyde, solvents, and bodily fluids.
  • Ability to embalm and prepare the body for presentation.
  • Ability to make funeral arrangements with families and follow through with funeral services.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to stand up to two hours at a time, drive up to four hours straight, lift up to 50 pounds from ground level to hip, lift overhead up to 10 pounds, and push and pull up to 190lbs.
  • Must have a valid Arizona driver's license with an insurable driving record.