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Preneed Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... and preneed/at-need related arrangements; build scalable contract templates, playbooks, and ... General Counsel, Deputy GC, or AGC experience strongly preferred. * Substantial, hands-on real ...

Preneed Counselor information

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$6

$14

$22

How much do preneed counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for preneed counselor in the United States is $14.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Preneed Counselors, and how can they be overcome?

Preneed Counselors often encounter challenges such as addressing sensitive topics like end-of-life planning and building trust with clients during emotional conversations. Overcoming these challenges requires strong communication skills, empathy, and the ability to listen and respond thoughtfully to clients’ concerns. Counselors benefit from ongoing training in grief support and sales techniques, as well as collaborating closely with funeral directors and administrative staff to ensure clients receive comprehensive guidance and care. Proactively educating families about the benefits of preplanning can also help ease discomfort and foster positive client relationships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Preneed Counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Preneed Counselor, you need a solid understanding of funeral planning, sales techniques, and relevant state licensing or certifications. Familiarity with customer relationship management (CRM) software and funeral home management systems is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to handle sensitive conversations help counselors build trust with clients during emotional times. These competencies are crucial for guiding families through pre-arrangement decisions and ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.

What are preneed counselors?

Preneed counselors are professionals who assist individuals and families in planning and arranging funeral services and related products in advance of need. Their main role is to provide information about prearranged funeral plans, help clients make informed decisions, and complete necessary documentation. Preneed counselors often work for funeral homes or cemetery organizations and are skilled in discussing sensitive topics with compassion and care. By planning ahead, clients can ease the emotional and financial burden on their loved ones when the time comes.

What is the difference between Preneed Counselor vs Funeral Director?

AspectPreneed CounselorFuneral Director
CredentialsLicensing, certification in preplanningLicensing, funeral service license
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, client consultationsFuneral homes, on-site arrangements
Employer & IndustryFuneral homes, preplanning servicesFuneral homes, mortuaries
Common Search IntentPreplanning, end-of-life arrangementsFuneral arrangements, service coordination

While both roles are involved in funeral services, a Preneed Counselor primarily focuses on preplanning and selling prearranged funeral plans, often working in an office setting. A Funeral Director manages the entire funeral process, including arrangements, coordination, and on-site services. Understanding these differences helps clients find the right professional for their needs.

More about Preneed Counselor jobs
Infographic showing various Preneed Counselor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,158 per year, or $15 per hour.

Inside Sales Professional, Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery & Funeral Home, Avondale, Arizona

Diocese of Phoenix Catholic Cemeteries & Funeral H

Avondale, AZ

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description

As an Inside Sales Professional (also referred to as a Family Service Counselor), you will be the face of Catholic Cemeteries and Funeral Homes to the community. In this position you will be accountable for serving the immediate (at need) and preneed cemetery arrangements of families that contact us in person or by phone to arrange services for their deceased loved ones. This position also has the opportunity to offer our funeral preneed insurance program to families.


A Family Service Counselor is primarily responsible for serving the immediate (at need) and preneed arrangements of families that come to the office or call to arrange for services. The Family Service Counselor is required to make follow-up calls to provide assistance to families and generate referrals. This individual must possess a servant's heart and truly want to help do what is right for the family.


Specific Job Duties

  • Assist families in making cemetery at need arrangements including, but not limited to assisting in the selection of the burial space, designing of the memorial, and selecting other burial products based on families' needs.
  • Follow up with at need families, verifying their satisfaction with the services they received and offering preneed services to them.
  • Field incoming calls and internet inquiries from preneed and at need families as well as general cemetery inquiries.
  • Respond to complaints in a thoughtful and attentive manner, following existing policies and procedures.
  • Refer families needing bereavement services to our Bereavement Ministry partners, the Crosier Fathers and Brothers.
  • Attend graveside services for families you have served.
  • Serve as primary liaison between the family and funeral home, ensuring seamless service at the time of burial
  • Educating and evangelizing families on the importance of preneed Catholic services for funeral and cemetery.


Education and Experience (Classification is typically expected to possess.

Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution preferred or three years cemetery or funeral industry experience. Licensed for funeral insurance sales in the state of Arizona required. Practicing Roman Catholic desired.


Skills

  • Comply with Catholic Cemeteries & Funeral Homes policies, rules, regulations, and procedures.
  • Work well with others and being a true "team player," willing to assist even when something falls outside your scope of duty.
  • Be an effective communicator both to your coworkers as well as to your families.
  • Be detail oriented, thorough, and ensure that a family's burial requests are honored.
  • Maintain a strong work ethic.
  • Exude a positive attitude.
  • Be approachable and flexible.
  • Must be able to perform basic computer skills, data input, and various applications.
  • Must have a valid Arizona driver's license with an insurable driving record.
  • Ability to work under minimal supervision.
  • High attention to detail and accuracy; highly organized
  • Ability to effectively communicate with others and to work harmoniously with related personnel.
  • Ability to organize and prioritize work.
  • Highly proficient in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Google mail.
  • Bilingual preferred.