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Preneed Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Preneed Counselor information

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$6

$14

$22

How much do preneed counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 14% Physical, and 86% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $31,158 per year, or $15 per hour.

PrePlanning Counselor - Holy Cross Mortuary (Culver City)

Archdiocese of LA

Culver City, CA

$22.25 - $29.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Location: Holy Cross Mortuary - Culver City

Status: Non - Exempt, Full Time

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the general supervision of the Preplanning Team Manager, the Preplanning Counselor provides preneed information and assistance to cemetery and mortuary patrons. In addition to the sales duties, this position may perform various services and client relations activities, while establishing and maintaining effective communication of efforts with CCM management, CCM office administrative staff and parish priests.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Because all Archdiocesan employees represent the Roman Catholic Church, they are expected to conduct themselves according to the goals and mission of the Church in performing their work.

  • Achieve sales goals and objectives in relation to preneed transactions to be conducted at the Archdiocesan Catholic Cemeteries and Mortuaries.
  • Sells cemetery and mortuary products and services in accordance with established sales objectives and procedures. Transactions are preneed only.
  • Completes contracts and other documents as required to provide sales and customer service in accordance with the policies of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and based on the funding mechanism utilized (cash or installment sales).
  • Provides the patron services in support of the primary sales responsibility. Answers questions, escorts visitors, research client family files and records and assist client families as needed.
  • Developing sales leads through personal contacts, telephone solicitation activity and group marketing activities such as parish outreach programs. Enters, records, and updates, all sales leads and the progress of their relationships with patrons in the CRM.
  • Sets appointments and make presentations at Archdiocesan cemetery and mortuary locations and occasionally in prospective patron family homes in accordance with the goals established by executive management.
  • Whenever practical, attend visitation or interment services of client families. Expresses personal interest and concern for the family and strengthens relationships for follow-up calls and appointments with extended family, friends and associates directed to preneed sales presentations.
  • Participation in meetings and group activities as directed. When necessary, adhere to the Performance Review Program and its requirements when performing below minimum production levels.
  • Maintains records of personal sales activities and performance results in the manner prescribed by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
  • Refers to the next level of management, any deviation from prescribed policies or procedures including, but not limited to prices, credits, discounts, contract terms and conditions of sale.
  • Addresses and resolve customer service issues in a timely manner.
  • In addition to the sales duties, this position may perform various services and client relations activities.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.