ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Funeral Service Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Milestone Funeral Partner

Funeral Apprentice

Montpelier, VT · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Funeral Apprentice Under the guidance of a licensed funeral director, implements choices made by ... Provides customer service in all areas of funeral arrangements, cremation ceremonies and internment ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFuneral Service Apprentice Jobs

Funeral Service Apprentice information

See salary details

$5

$19

$25

How much do funeral service apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for funeral service apprentice 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.

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

AspectFuneral Service ApprenticeFuneral Director
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and enrollment in a funeral service education programRequires licensure, which includes completing an accredited program and passing state exams
Work EnvironmentAssists with funeral preparations, embalming, and administrative tasks under supervisionOversees funeral arrangements, client consultations, and manages funeral home operations
Industry UsageEntry-level role in funeral homes, often a stepping stone to becoming a funeral directorLicensed professional responsible for funeral planning and client service

The Funeral Service Apprentice is an entry-level position focused on learning and assisting with funeral preparations, while the Funeral Director is a licensed professional who manages funeral services and client relations. The apprentice role is essential for gaining experience before becoming a licensed funeral director.

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

To thrive as a Funeral Service Apprentice, you need a solid understanding of mortuary science, embalming techniques, and funeral service laws, usually supported by enrollment in an accredited funeral service program. Familiarity with funeral management software, embalming tools, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong interpersonal skills help apprentices provide sensitive support to grieving families and maintain professionalism. These skills ensure respectful care of the deceased, legal compliance, and exemplary service to clients during emotionally challenging times.

Do funeral homes take apprentices?

Funeral homes often hire apprentices to train in funeral service, embalming, and mortuary science. Apprentices typically work under licensed funeral directors and may need to complete specific training programs or certifications before becoming licensed professionals.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Funeral Service Apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages, and 27 is not considered too old to start. Many apprenticeships value maturity, life experience, and a strong commitment to the profession, making age less of a barrier than in other career paths.

What are Funeral Service Apprentices?

Funeral Service Apprentices are individuals who are training under the supervision of licensed funeral directors or embalmers to learn the skills necessary for a career in funeral service. Their duties typically include assisting with the preparation of bodies, arranging funerals, interacting with grieving families, and learning about legal and ethical responsibilities. The apprenticeship is a required step before becoming a fully licensed funeral director or embalmer and usually lasts one to two years, depending on state requirements. This hands-on experience is essential for understanding the sensitive nature of the profession and providing compassionate service to families.

How much do apprentice morticians make?

Apprentice morticians typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on location and experience. As they gain skills and complete required certifications, their wages generally increase, and they may transition to higher-paying roles within funeral service establishments.

What Does a Funeral Service Apprentice Do?

A funeral service apprentice works for a funeral service and learns the skills necessary to become a funeral director, embalmer, or mortician. In some states, you must be a funeral director apprentice or mortician’s apprentice before you can earn a license to run your funeral service operation. An apprentice gets on-the-job training along with direct instruction. A funeral service apprentice performs many of the same duties as their superiors but under the supervision of a licensed professional. After completing the apprenticeship program, the apprentice may have the necessary qualifications to work in funeral services.

How to become a mortician's apprentice?

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

What are the most common challenges faced by Funeral Service Apprentices during their training period?

Funeral Service Apprentices often encounter challenges such as managing emotional stress when working closely with grieving families and learning to balance compassion with professionalism. Adapting to irregular hours and being on-call can also be demanding, as funeral services often require flexibility. Additionally, apprentices must quickly become familiar with legal and ethical regulations, while developing technical skills in embalming and service planning. Support from experienced mentors and a structured apprenticeship program can help ease these challenges.
More about Funeral Service Apprentice jobs
What cities are hiring for Funeral Service Apprentice jobs? Cities with the most Funeral Service Apprentice job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Funeral Service jobs? The most popular types of Funeral Service jobs are:
What states have the most Funeral Service Apprentice jobs? States with the most job openings for Funeral Service Apprentice jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Funeral Service Apprentice jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Funeral Service Apprentice jobs are:
Funeral Service Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Funeral Service Apprentice job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Locum Tenens, 6% Internship, 66% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% 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

Posted 17 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