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Funeral Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Funeral Arranger & Service Director Habing Family Funeral Home -- Gilroy, CA Job Type: Full-Time | ... Valid California driver's license with a clean driving record * Fluency in Spanish preferred

Funeral Arranger

Concord, CA ยท On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Funeral Arranger At Carriage Services , we are united by our purpose of creating premier ... Valid state issued driver's license in good standing and acceptable driving record. Job Duties

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Funeral Driver information

See California salary details

$25.7K

$52.5K

$104.1K

How much do funeral driver jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for funeral driver in California is $52,474.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,500.00 and $57,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a funeral driver?

Funeral drivers are professionals responsible for transporting the deceased, family members, and funeral staff during funeral services. They typically drive specialized vehicles such as hearses or limousines to and from funeral homes, cemeteries, or places of worship. Funeral drivers ensure that the processions are conducted respectfully, safely, and on schedule. They also assist with the proper handling and placement of caskets or urns, providing support to grieving families throughout the service. This role requires sensitivity, reliability, and adherence to protocols around funeral transportation.

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

To thrive as a Funeral Driver, you generally need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and familiarity with local routes and traffic laws. Experience with professional vehicles like hearses or limousines and understanding funeral procession protocols are often required. Compassion, discretion, and strong communication skills help create a respectful and supportive environment for grieving families. These skills ensure dignified service delivery and help uphold the reputation and reliability of the funeral home.

What are some common challenges faced by funeral drivers, and how can they prepare for them?

Funeral drivers often encounter emotional situations, traffic delays, and the need for precise timing during services. To prepare, it's important to develop strong interpersonal skills, maintain professionalism, and be adaptable to changes in scheduling or routes. Familiarity with the local area, attention to detail, and sensitivity to grieving families are also key to overcoming these challenges and providing a respectful service.

What is the difference between Funeral Driver vs Funeral Embalmer?

AspectFuneral DriverFuneral Embalmer
Required CredentialsDriver's license, clean driving recordState license, embalming certification
Work EnvironmentFuneral homes, cemeteries, transportation vehiclesFuneral homes, embalming rooms, preparation areas
Employer & Industry UsageTransporting bodies, funeral procession supportPreparing bodies, restorative work, embalming

Funeral Drivers primarily focus on transporting the deceased and supporting funeral processions, requiring valid driver's licenses and clean records. Funeral Embalmers prepare bodies for viewings and funerals, needing specialized certifications. Both roles are essential in the funeral industry but differ significantly in skills and daily tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Funeral Driver jobs in California?

For Funeral Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Funeral Driver jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Funeral Driver jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Funeral Driver jobs?

Cities in California with the most Funeral Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Funeral Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,474 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Event Coordinator - Funeral

Catholic Funeral & Cemetery Services

Oakland, CA โ€ข On-site

$26/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Hiring Immediately!
Funeral Director

Location: St. Mary Cemetery & Funeral Center - Oakland, CA
Experience: Must have Event Planning experience OR Funeral Director license
The Funeral Director serves the families by guiding them through the process of making informed decisions when arranging a loved one's funeral with care and compassion. You will be the primary point of contact to families, parish staff, vendors, and CFCS staff for the funeral services. As our Funeral Director, you will communicate, coordinate, and follow-through on all aspects of the funeral service case.
Benefits
  • Funeral Director Hourly: $26 to start
  • Structured increase schedule based on years of service and education
  • Full benefits package including insurance options
  • Retirement benefits
  • Paid time off
  • Sponsored Funeral Director Licensing program onsite

Qualifications
  • Must have Event Planning experience
  • Must have an Associate's Degree or 60 hours towards an Associate's Degree
  • Must have a Valid Driver's License
  • Funeral Director license a plus
  • Interest in obtaining a funeral license a plus
  • Interest in working in a Catholic environment, all backgrounds welcome to apply
  • Passion for people
  • Ability to coordinate with many internal departments and external stakeholders
  • Great organizational skills and ability to multi-task

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift or move objects weighing between 75-100 lbs.
  • Ability to push and pull up to 300 lbs. with a wheeled cart
  • Ability to stand for long periods on a hard surface

Get to know us...
Catholic Funeral & Cemetery Services (CFCS) partners with Dioceses across the U.S. in the operation of their cemeteries. Founded in faith, we provide a vibrant community for the employees and families we serve. We've been doing this for 20+ years and have developed tools to help each person grow in their role, in the industry, and in service to families.
The work we do is founded in our Core Values-Share the Journey, Serve with Care, and Make It Happen www.cfcsmission.org https://www.ncregister.com/blog/finding-solace-in-a-cemetery
St. Mary Cemetery FD1955 - Catholic Funeral & Cemetery Services