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Funeral Director Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bliley's

Funeral Service Apprentice

Richmond, VA

The Funeral Service Apprentice at Bliley's supports licensed funeral professionals across the ... Serve as a Funeral Director Assistant when needed, assisting licensed funeral directors with ...

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Funeral Director Apprentice information

What is the difference between Funeral Director Apprentice vs Funeral Director?

AspectFuneral Director ApprenticeFuneral Director
CredentialsOn-the-job training, apprenticeship programs, state licensing requirementsLicensed after completing apprenticeship, certification, and licensing exams
Work EnvironmentAssisting licensed directors, preparing funeral arrangements, learning industry practicesManaging funeral services, coordinating arrangements, client interactions
Industry UsageEntry-level role in funeral homes, training positionFull professional role with responsibilities and licensing

The main difference between a Funeral Director Apprentice and a Funeral Director is that the apprentice is in training, gaining experience and working under supervision, while the funeral director is fully licensed and responsible for managing funeral services independently. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for the licensing process and future career as a licensed funeral director.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a funeral director apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Funeral Director Apprentice, you need foundational knowledge of mortuary science, legal regulations, and funeral service protocols, typically supported by enrollment in an accredited mortuary science program. Familiarity with case management software, embalming tools, and compliance systems is often required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong interpersonal skills help build trust with grieving families and ensure sensitive service delivery. These skills and qualities are crucial for providing respectful, organized, and professional care to clients during emotionally challenging times.

What is a funeral director apprentice?

Funeral Director Apprentices are individuals who are training under the supervision of a licensed funeral director to learn the skills and knowledge necessary to become a funeral director themselves. Their responsibilities typically include assisting with funeral arrangements, preparing bodies, handling paperwork, and supporting grieving families. The apprenticeship is a required step in many states before taking a licensing exam and becoming a fully licensed funeral director. Apprenticeships provide hands-on experience in the funeral industry, allowing apprentices to develop professional competence and understanding of funeral service laws and ethics.

How much do funeral director apprentices make?

Funeral director apprentices typically earn between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Apprenticeship programs often include on-the-job training and may lead to higher wages as skills and certifications develop.

How to become a funeral director apprentice?

To become a funeral director apprentice, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete a state-approved apprenticeship program, which involves working under the supervision of a licensed funeral director. Some states require passing licensing exams and obtaining certification before practicing independently.

How long is a funeral director apprentice apprenticeship?

A funeral director apprentice apprenticeship typically lasts between one to three years, depending on state requirements and the apprentice's prior experience. During this period, apprentices gain hands-on training in funeral service operations, embalming, and customer service, often working under the supervision of licensed funeral directors. Completion usually requires meeting specific hours and passing licensing exams to become a licensed funeral director.

Are funeral director apprenticeships paid?

Yes, funeral director apprenticeships are typically paid positions, providing a wage while gaining hands-on experience in funeral service operations. Apprentices often work under supervision to develop skills in embalming, arrangements, and client communication, and may receive benefits depending on the employer.

What are some typical challenges a funeral director apprentice may face during their apprenticeship?

As a Funeral Director Apprentice, you may encounter challenges such as managing emotional interactions with grieving families, handling a variety of administrative tasks, and adapting to unpredictable work hours, including evenings and weekends. Balancing the technical aspects of embalming and restorative work with compassionate client service is essential. Apprentices often need to quickly learn industry regulations, documentation processes, and how to coordinate with cemeteries, clergy, and other service providers, all while maintaining professionalism in sensitive environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Funeral Director jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Funeral Director jobs in Virginia are:
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Infographic showing various Funeral Director Apprentice job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Funeral Service Apprentice

Bliley's Funeral Homes & Cremation Center

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description:

For more than a century, Bliley’s Funeral Homes & Cremation Center has stood for service, trust, and professionalism. As we continue to grow, joining our team means being part of a legacy of care and a culture where every associate contributes to the experience families remember. We seek individuals who hold themselves to a high standard and find meaning in helping others.


Summary of Job Function:

At Bliley's, our mission is to "guide our community through grief with ritual, education, and compassion" - and training the next generation of licensed funeral directors is a key component of that philosophy. The Funeral Service Apprentice at Bliley’s supports licensed funeral professionals across the organization while gaining hands-on experience in all aspects of funeral service. This role includes opportunities to assist with embalming, funeral arranging, and funeral direction, as well as the transportation of deceased persons, maintenance of fleet and facilities, running errands, and actively promoting Bliley’s in the community. Apprentices work under supervision of licensed funeral professionals to fulfill state licensure requirements and develop the skills necessary to become a licensed Funeral Director.


Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Assist the Central Services Manager as needed, including transporting deceased persons, answering phone calls, and running company errands.
  • Serve as a Funeral Director Assistant when needed, assisting licensed funeral directors with conducting ceremonies, transporting flowers, directing parking and processions, and driving hearses.
  • Assist licensed funeral directors in the Care Center to provide all aspects of decedent care, including embalming, dressing, presentation, and maintaining a clean environment.
  • Assist licensed funeral directors with all aspects of funeral arranging, including conferences, death certificates, obituaries, receptions, celebrants, venues, escorts, military honors, ceremony planning, etc.
  • Assist licensed funeral directors with all aspects of funeral services, including visitations, church ceremonies, funeral home ceremonies, cemetery ceremonies, processions, etc.
  • Assist Fleet & Facilities Manager with maintenance of fleet and facilities.
  • Complete all necessary licensing requirements, including 2000 hours, 25 embalmings, and 25 family interactions.
  • Actively promote Bliley’s Funeral Homes and Cremation Center in the community.
Requirements:
  • Must have a mortuary science degree or be in the final semester of completing one.
  • Must have career ambitions for becoming a licensed funeral director.
  • Must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to work compassionately with families and associates of diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures.
  • Significant carrying, pushing and/or pulling and frequent lifting of objects weighing 25-75 pounds along with the ability for job related lifting of 75-125 pounds.
  • Significant ability to work independently.
  • Ability to multitask within job requirements.
  • Must be detail-oriented.