ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Mortuary Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMortuary JobsMortuary Assistant Jobs

Mortuary Assistant information

See salary details

$9

$19

$25

How much do mortuary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for mortuary assistant in the United States is $19.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Mortuary Assistant job?

A Mortuary Assistant helps with the preparation and care of deceased individuals before burial or cremation. Their duties may include cleaning and dressing bodies, assisting with autopsies, maintaining mortuary facilities, and comforting grieving families. They work under the supervision of funeral directors or pathologists, ensuring that bodies are handled with dignity and respect. This role requires attention to detail, discretion, and a compassionate demeanor.

What disqualifies you from being a mortician?

Disqualifications for becoming a mortuary assistant or mortician typically include a criminal record, especially involving crimes of moral turpitude, lack of necessary education or certification, and physical or mental health issues that impair the ability to perform job duties. Additionally, a lack of attention to detail, poor communication skills, or inability to handle the emotional aspects of the job can be disqualifying factors.

How much do funeral assistants get paid?

Funeral 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. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

Can you work in a morgue with no experience?

Mortuary assistants can often start with little or no experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills in sanitation, handling bodies, and understanding safety protocols are important, and some employers may require or prefer a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification or training programs can improve job prospects and prepare individuals for the responsibilities involved.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Mortuary Assistant?

As a Mortuary Assistant, your typical daily responsibilities include preparing the deceased for viewings, assisting with embalming procedures under supervision, maintaining cleanliness and organization in the mortuary, and supporting funeral directors with setup for services. You may also be responsible for transporting bodies, stocking supplies, and completing necessary administrative tasks such as record keeping. The job often involves working closely with small teams and families, requiring a respectful and discreet demeanor. Understanding these responsibilities will help you determine if this meaningful and detail-oriented role is right for you.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Mortuary Assistant position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mortuary Assistant, you generally need attention to detail, basic anatomical knowledge, and the ability to follow established sanitary and safety procedures; most positions require a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with mortuary instruments, embalming support equipment, and documentation systems is often necessary. Strong interpersonal skills, discretion, and a compassionate approach are important soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure proper care and dignity for the deceased while supporting grieving families and maintaining a respectful environment.

What qualifications do you need to be a mortuary assistant?

To become a mortuary assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers prefer prior experience in healthcare or funeral services, and training is often provided on the job. Basic skills in sanitation, attention to detail, and the ability to handle sensitive situations are important.
More about Mortuary Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Mortuary Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Mortuary Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Mortuary jobs? The most popular types of Mortuary jobs are:
What states have the most Mortuary Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Mortuary Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mortuary Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mortuary Assistant jobs are:
Mortuary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mortuary Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,039 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Lead Service Director (Full-Time)

Lead Service Director (Full-Time)

O'Connor Mortuary

Laguna Hills, CA • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Role: Lead Service Director (Full Time)
Location: Laguna Hills, CA
Reports To: Service Director Manager; General Manager / Operations
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Overview
The Lead Service Director serves as the primary on-site leader and ambassador of O'Connor Mortuary, responsible for delivering exceptional, seamless, and deeply meaningful funeral and memorial services. This role requires a high level of emotional intelligence, professionalism, and operational excellence.
The Lead Service Director ensures that every service reflects the wishes of the family with precision, dignity, and care while coordinating all event logistics, staff, clergy, and external partners. This individual sets the standard for service excellence and leads by example in all interactions with families, guests, and team members.
We seek candidates who are drawn to meaningful work and committed to serving others with empathy, integrity, and professionalism. At O'Connor Mortuary, our core purpose is to Heal Hearts, Inspire Trust, and Comfort Souls, and we value individuals who naturally embody compassion, clear communication, and respect in every interaction. The ideal candidate approaches each responsibility with care and accountability, contributes positively to a supportive team environment, and upholds the highest standards of service for the families and communities we serve.
Compensation and Benefits
  • Starting Rate:$25.00/hour (approx. $52,000 annually)
  • Benefits:
    • Medical and dental plans available after 60 days
    • Company contributes a flat rate toward selected plans
    • Dependent coverage available (employee-paid)
    • Safe Harbor 401(k)
    • Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrues after 90 days
  • Eligible for participation in a quarterly incentive program tied to family satisfaction evaluations and individual performance metrics, recognizing excellence in service delivery, professionalism, and overall contribution to organizational success.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Ability to operate fleet vehicles (hearse, van, etc.)
  • Basic computer proficiency (CRM systems, scheduling tools)
  • Ability to multitask and manage competing priorities
  • Ability to lift 20-30 lbs and navigate stairs

Preferred Experience
  • Prior experience in funeral service, mortuary, crematory, or a related field
  • Experience in customer service, hospitality, or event coordination
  • Familiarity with faith-based or cultural service traditions

Core Responsibilities
Service Leadership and Execution
  • Lead and oversee all aspects of funeral, memorial, visitation, and graveside services
  • Ensure flawless execution of services in accordance with family wishes and company standards
  • Act as the primary point of contact for families during services, providing guidance, reassurance, and support
  • Coordinate with clergy, celebrants, venue staff, and vendors to ensure alignment and timing

Event Planning and Coordination
  • Collaborate with arrangers to fully understand family preferences, cultural considerations, and service details
  • Review and execute all elements outlined in the Service Instruction Form
  • Manage event setup, flow, and breakdown with precision and attention to detail
  • Anticipate needs and proactively resolve issues in real time

Family and Guest Experience
  • Provide compassionate, professional, and attentive care to grieving families
  • Greet and assist guests, ensuring a welcoming and organized environment
  • Maintain composure and empathy in emotionally sensitive situations

Operational Duties
  • Transport decedents with dignity from hospitals, residences, or coroner's offices
  • Drive company vehicles to and from service locations
  • Assist with procurement of necessary legal documents when needed
  • Support flower deliveries and service-related logistics
  • Participate in general facility upkeep and maintenance

Team Collaboration
  • Work closely with Service Assistants and other staff to ensure smooth operations
  • Mentor and support team members, modeling professionalism and service excellence
  • Foster a collaborative, respectful, and proactive team environment

Training and Development
  • Structured, hands-on training through shadowing experienced directors
  • Gradual transition into lead responsibilities with ongoing mentorship
  • Performance evaluations conducted by leadership prior to independent assignment
  • Continuous development with opportunities for advancement

Schedule Expectations
  • Rotating schedule, including every other weekend
  • Flexibility required for evenings, weekends, and holidays based on service needs

Key Skills and Competencies
Leadership and Accountability
  • Takes ownership of service outcomes and team performance
  • Demonstrates sound judgment and decision-making under pressure
  • Leads with confidence, professionalism, and integrity

Compassion and Emotional Intelligence
  • Exhibits genuine empathy and sensitivity toward grieving families
  • Reads emotional cues and adapts approach accordingly
  • Maintains professionalism in highly emotional environments

Communication Excellence
  • Clear, calm, confident, compassionate and effective verbal communication
  • Strong active listening and ability to guide sensitive conversations
  • Ability to build trust quickly with diverse individuals
  • Strong listening skills and attention to detail

Organization and Execution
  • Exceptional time management and multitasking ability
  • Strong attention to detail in high-stakes environments
  • Ability to anticipate needs and prevent issues before they arise

Adaptability and Problem-Solving
  • Thrives in dynamic, fast-paced environments
  • Responds effectively to changing priorities and unexpected needs
  • Maintains composure under pressure

Teamwork and Professionalism
  • Adheres to strict grooming and dress standards
  • Demonstrates humility, accountability, and a team-first mindset
  • Works collaboratively and supports team success
  • Always represents the organization with dignity and respect

Performance and Growth
Employee performance is evaluated based on service execution, professionalism, leadership effectiveness, and overall contribution to the family experience and team operations.
  • A formal performance review will be conducted at the 6-month mark to assess progress, core competency development, and alignment with company standards and expectations. This review will include feedback on service quality, communication skills, leadership capabilities, and adherence to operational procedures.
  • Following the initial review, employees will transition to annual performance evaluations, which will assess continued growth, consistency in performance, and readiness for increased responsibility or advancement opportunities.
  • Ongoing feedback and coaching will be provided throughout employment to support development and ensure success in the role.
  • Opportunities for compensation adjustments and career advancement will be considered based on performance, demonstrated leadership, and organizational needs.
  • Opportunities for advancement based on performance, leadership, and demonstrated capability
  • O'Connor Mortuary prioritizes internal promotion and career development

Additional Information
  • This is an at-will position
  • O'Connor Mortuary is an equal opportunity employer

Apply