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Funeral Service Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Navy

Mortician

Rochester, NY

In your job, you may expect to: * Assist in recovery, identification and inspection of remains ... Conduct funeral services and direct pallbearers, clergy, mourners and flowers as needed * Offer ...

U.S. Navy

Mortician

Geneseo, NY

In your job, you may expect to: * Assist in recovery, identification and inspection of remains ... Conduct funeral services and direct pallbearers, clergy, mourners and flowers as needed * Offer ...

All JobsFuneral Service JobsFuneral Service Assistant JobsFuneral Service Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY

Funeral Service Assistant information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$7

$16

$24

How much do funeral service assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for funeral service assistant in Rochester, NY is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be a mortuary assistant?

To become a funeral service assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers prefer prior experience in healthcare or customer service, and on-the-job training is common; certification is not usually required but can enhance job prospects.

What are Funeral Service Assistants?

Funeral Service Assistants are professionals who support funeral directors in the planning and execution of funeral services. Their duties often include preparing the venue, transporting flowers and remains, assisting mourners, and ensuring that services run smoothly. They may also help with administrative tasks, such as maintaining records and completing paperwork. Funeral Service Assistants play a crucial role in providing compassionate support to grieving families and ensuring that all aspects of the service are handled with dignity and respect.

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

AspectFuneral Service AssistantFuneral Director
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingLicensing, funeral service education
Work EnvironmentAssist with funeral arrangements, setup, and support staffManage funeral services, client consultations, and administrative tasks
Industry UsageSupport role in funeral homesLeadership role overseeing funeral operations

Funeral Service Assistants typically support funeral homes by helping with setup, transportation, and client support, often requiring minimal formal education. Funeral Directors hold licensing and manage entire funeral services, including client consultations and administrative duties. While both roles work closely within the funeral industry, Funeral Service Assistants focus on operational support, whereas Funeral Directors lead and coordinate funeral arrangements.

What are some common challenges Funeral Service Assistants face when supporting grieving families?

Funeral Service Assistants often encounter the challenge of providing compassionate support to grieving families while maintaining professionalism and composure. Balancing empathy with the practical responsibilities of setting up services, assisting with ceremonial arrangements, and coordinating logistics can be emotionally demanding. Additionally, adapting to last-minute changes and managing sensitive situations with discretion requires strong interpersonal skills. This role is well-suited to individuals who are emotionally resilient and able to offer comfort in difficult moments.

What is a funeral service assistant?

A funeral service assistant supports funeral directors by preparing arrangements, assisting with transportation, and managing administrative tasks. The role often requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle sensitive situations with compassion.

Is it hard to become a mortuary assistant?

Becoming a funeral service assistant typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, and some states or employers may prefer or require formal training or certification. The job involves handling sensitive tasks and working in a funeral home environment, but it generally does not require extensive prior experience, making entry-level positions accessible with proper training and a compassionate attitude.

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

To thrive as a Funeral Service Assistant, you need knowledge of funeral service procedures, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with scheduling software, basic office equipment, and sometimes state-specific certifications is useful. Strong interpersonal skills, compassion, and professionalism are essential for supporting grieving families and working with funeral directors. These abilities ensure respectful service, smooth operations, and emotional support during sensitive situations.

How much do you get paid as a mortuary assistant?

Funeral service assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Overtime and on-call hours are common in this role, which can also affect total compensation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Funeral Service jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Funeral Service jobs in Rochester, NY are:
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What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Funeral Service Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Funeral Service Assistant job openings:
Funeral Service Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Funeral Service Assistant job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 4% As Needed, 18% Full Time, 69% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,755 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Funeral Director/Embalmer

AKRE & Associates

Rochester, NY

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Funeral Director & Embalmer

A privately owned funeral home is seeking a licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer to join its team. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys both the technical side of embalming and the family-facing side of funeral service.

This is a balanced position with an expected 50/50 split between embalming and funeral directing. The right candidate will be comfortable preparing and caring for decedents while also meeting with families and providing a high level of service.

Responsibilities

  • Meet with families and assist with funeral arrangements
  • Perform embalming and body preparation
  • Support funeral services and daily operations
  • Work closely with other licensed funeral directors
  • Manage assigned families from arrangement through service
  • Participate in a shared on-call rotation
  • Handle after-hours transfers only when trade services are unavailable
  • Maintain a professional, compassionate, and service-focused approach

Qualifications

  • Licensed Funeral Director
  • Embalming experience required
  • Comfortable working directly with families
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to serve high-expectation clientele
  • Flexible, team-oriented, and reliable
  • Open to a non-traditional rolling schedule
  • Willingness to perform both embalming and funeral director duties

Schedule

This role follows a rolling schedule rather than a traditional Monday-Friday structure. The standard workday is approximately 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with every other weekend off. There are no calling hours, and after-hours calls are handled by an answering service.

Team members participate in a shared on-call rotation of approximately two nights per week.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Base salary: $80,000–$90,000
  • Quarterly incentive bonus opportunity
  • 401(k) with company contribution
  • Paid time off
  • Cell phone allowance
  • Dry cleaning service
  • After-hours transfer pay
  • Housing options may be available

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer who is equally comfortable in the prep room and in front of families. This person should be flexible, trustworthy, professional, and able to adapt to a modern, family-owned funeral home environment.

This is a strong opportunity for someone who wants a balanced role, a fair schedule, and a team culture that values work-life balance.