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Funeral Service Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Embalmer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$49K - $63K/yr

Embalmer, Apprentice experience as required by state/provincial law * 2 years of experience in a 200-call minimum/year funeral firm embalming facility preferred Licenses * Must meet all licensing ...

Funeral Service Apprentice information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$19

$25

How much do funeral service apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for funeral service apprentice in Virginia is $19.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $20.96 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.

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.

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.

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Funeral Service jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Funeral Service jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Funeral Service Apprentice jobs in Virginia? For Funeral Service Apprentice jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Funeral Service Apprentice jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Funeral Service Apprentice jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Funeral Service Apprentice jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Funeral Service Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Funeral Service Apprentice job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,987 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Funeral Services Lab Coordinator

Brightpoint Community College

Richmond, VA • On-site

$25/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Working Title
Funeral Services Lab Coordinator
Role Title
Lab & Research Specialist II
Role Code
59074-SW
FLSA
Nonexempt
Pay Band
04
Position Number
290W0324
Agency
Brightpoint Community College
Division
Brightpoint Community College (Div)
Work Location
Chesterfield - 041
Hiring Range
$25.00 Hourly
Emergency/Essential Personnel
No
EEO Category
3-Technicians
Full Time or Part Time
Part Time
Does this position have telework options? -Telework options are subject to change based on business needs-
Does this position have a bilingual or multilingual skill requirement or preference?
Work Schedule
The person in this position should have the ability to work a flexible schedule, which may include days, evenings, and/or weekends. This part-time position will not exceed 29 hours a week.
Sensitive Position
No
Job Description
Brightpoint Community College is a two-year public institution of higher education and is one of the largest of Virginia's 23 community colleges. The college is located within the Greater Richmond metropolitan area. It serves students and the community at its two campuses, in Chester and Midlothian; online; and in locations throughout its service area. Brightpoint Community College's mission is to provide quality educational opportunities that inspire student success and community vitality. It envisions a success story for every student.
Brightpoint Community College invites applications for a part-time lab coordinator position in the Funeral Services Department. This is a restricted part-time position funded though the Perkins grant. Employment is contingent upon continued grant funding, which is currently secured through June 30, 2027. Renewal beyond this period is dependent on future funding availability. At a rate of $25 per hour, this funding will support up to 460 hours of work through June 30, 2027.
The successful applicant will work with the Program Director and Full-time faculty in coordinating and managing off-campus educational activities for the Funeral Services Program, ensuring compliance with institutional, accreditation, and regulatory requirements. Responsibilities include developing, maintaining, and monitoring affiliation agreements with funeral homes and other approved off-campus sites; conducting virtual and on-site visits for prospective and existing affiliation locations; verifying establishment permits and maintaining required documentation, including formaldehyde testing records and General Price Lists; maintaining comprehensive records and tracking systems related to affiliated sites; coordinating preceptor recruitment, training, documentation, and ongoing support; verifying preceptor licensure and maintaining compliance records; facilitating communication with preceptors regarding student progress and program requirements; assisting with coordinating student placements at approved off-campus sites; ensuring affiliated sites meet current program requirements prior to student assignment; collecting and maintaining student evaluation documentation; and serving as the primary liaison between the College, students, preceptors, and affiliated funeral service organizations. The position requires occasional travel to affiliated sites and the ability to work independently while maintaining accurate records and meeting established deadlines.
Special Assignments
May be required to perform other duties as assigned. May be required to assist the agency or state government generally in the event of an emergency declaration by the Governor.
KSA's/Required Qualifications
Must possess a current Funeral Director or Funeral Service License and have a minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in funeral service practice. Must hold an associate's degree from a regionally accredited institution.
Demonstrated knowledge of funeral service operations, embalming and preparation room procedures, funeral establishment regulations, and professional standards governing funeral service education and practice. Strong organizational, communication, record-keeping, and relationship management skills. Ability to develop and maintain professional partnerships with funeral homes, preceptors, students, faculty, and regulatory agencies. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines, maintain detailed records and documentation, exercise independent judgment, and work effectively with minimal supervision. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and electronic record management systems. Ability to travel to affiliated sites as needed for visits, compliance monitoring, and program support.
• The selected candidate must pass a required background check
Additional Considerations
A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution is preferred. Experience coordinating clinical, practicum, internship, apprenticeship, or other experiential learning activities within a funeral service, healthcare, or higher education environment. Experience developing and managing affiliation agreements or partnerships with external organizations. Demonstrated experience providing training, mentoring, or supervision to funeral service professionals, students, or preceptors. Familiarity with American Board of Funeral Service Educators (ABFSE) accreditation standards, including documentation and compliance requirements. Experience maintaining regulatory records, establishment permits, licensing documentation, and compliance reports. Proven ability to establish and maintain collaborative working relationships with community partners and stakeholders. Experience using Peoplesoft/Student Information Systems, learning management systems, databases, or other technology platforms to manage student placements and program documentation. Strong attention to detail and a demonstrated commitment to professionalism, customer service, confidentiality, and continuous improvement.
Operation of a State Vehicle
No
Supervises Employees
No
Required Travel
Travel may be required between campuses.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
WGE_3313P
Recruitment Type
General Public - G
Number of Vacancies
1
Position End Date (if temporary)
Job Open Date
07/27/2026
Job Close Date
08/10/2026
Open Until Filled
Agency Website
https://www.brightpoint.edu/
Contact Name
Cassandra Davidson
Email
cdavidson@brightpoint.edu
Phone Number
Special Instructions to Applicants
In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth's Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly called a Certificate of Disability) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans may also apply via the AHP if they also provide an AHP Letter. To request an AHP Letter, use this link: https://www.dars.virginia.gov/drs/cpid/PWContact.aspx or call DARS at 800-552-5019, or DBVI at 800-622-2155
Additional Information
Background Check Statement Disclaimer
The selected candidate's offer is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background investigation, which may include: fingerprint checks, local agency checks, employment verification, verification of education, credit checks (relevant to employment). Additionally, selected candidates may be required to complete the Commonwealth's Statement of Economic Interest. For more information, please follow this link: http://ethics.dls.virginia.gov/
EEO Statement
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, political affiliation, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or other non-merit factors.
ADA Statement
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Acts (ADA and ADAAA), to provide, reasonable accommodation to applicants in need of access to the application, interviewing, and selection processes when requested.
E-Verify Statement
VCCS uses E-Verify to check employee eligibility to work in the United States. You will be required to complete an I-9 form and provide documentation of your identity for employment purposes.
Quicklink for Posting
https://jobs.vccs.edu/postings/99025