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Funeral Service Apprentice Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

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 Raleigh, NC salary details

$5

$18

$24

How much do funeral service apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for funeral service apprentice in Raleigh, NC is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $20.58 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.
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What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Funeral Service Apprentice jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Funeral Service Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Funeral Service Apprentice job openings in Raleigh, NC 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 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,207 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
Embalmer (part-time)

Part-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Service Corporation International rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 8 rated funeral services


Job description

Our associates celebrate lives. We celebrate our associates.
Performs all embalming activities of the deceased correctly and respectfully.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Cares for deceased in a respectful manner while performing a variety of tasks which include: verifying identification and embalming authorization; performing restorations; completing removals and transfers; dressing, styling hair and or applying cosmetics, and; any other preparation required for human remains
  • Adheres to all applicable professional, municipal, state/provincial and federal licensing authority regulations
  • Assists with maintenance of preparation room and the facility
  • Cleans soiled equipment and hazardous material spills
  • Ensures hazardous materials and spills are handled in accordance with the Material Data Safety Sheets
  • Assists with chemical and supply inventory
  • Receives caskets and other funeral home supplies
  • Promotes a safe work environment by being aware of and practicing universal precautions and adopting general principles of safe conduct

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Graduation from accredited mortuary college or other degree as required by state/province law

Experience
  • 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 requirements in applicable state/province as required by law and as prescribed by each state board
  • Current state/province issued driver's license

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Acceptable driving record
  • Ability to lift over 75 pounds
  • Knowledge of computers and some software including MS Office products required
  • High level of compassion and integrity
  • Good communication skills
  • Problem solving skills

Postal Code: 27605
Category (Portal Searching): Operations
Job Location: US-NC - Raleigh

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