Apprentice Funeral Director/Embalmer

About the Role

This position works under the direct supervision of a licensed Funeral Director and/or licensed Embalmer in performing a variety of tasks during the preparation, planning, and execution of the funeral and memorialization process. The role also involves preparation and presentation of the deceased while gaining on-the-job experience to exceed the expectations of client families and their guests.

Responsibilities

• Observes and assists the Funeral Director/Embalmer in consulting with client families or legal representatives to create services designed to meet their memorialization expectations.
• Ensures client families are presented with all merchandising and service options available.
• Obtains information needed to complete required documents such as obituaries, death certificates, burial permits, and insurance.
• Participates in all service arrangements and details with clergy, presiding persons, fraternal or military organizations, and others involved in conducting the funeral service.
• Utilizes systems to record merchandise selections, enter contracts, and complete necessary forms.
• Observes and assists the Funeral Director/Embalmer with preparation and embalming of the deceased for interment, cremation, or other disposition in conformity with legal requirements and with respect and dignity.
• Ensures proper paperwork, including permits, logs, identification tags, and certificates, are completed accurately and timely in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.
• Properly and safely utilizes embalming instruments and machinery in accordance with company guidelines.
• Under the direction of a licensed Funeral Director/Embalmer, participates in the preparation of the deceased (dressing, applying makeup, and casketing).
• Assists with planning and scheduling of visitations and services.
• Assists with placing caskets or remains in the visitation area, setting up the room to comply with family wishes, including adjusting light fixtures and arranging flowers or plants.
• Directs and ushers families and service attendees to and from the location of the funeral service.
• Assists in the transportation of client families to ensure timely departure and arrival.
• Assists with the preparation of the deceased for transportation as needed.
• Arranges and coordinates the shipment of remains to and from other cities and locations.
• Utilizes personal protective equipment and adheres to relevant operational and safety procedures.
• Stocks and cleans the preparation room, refrigeration unit, and other facilities as needed.
• Works removals/first-call as needed.
• Identifies and remedies all hazards on the grounds.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Active attendance or enrollment in a Mortuary School/Program required.
• Ability to pass applicable Board exams (National/State).
• Valid state-issued driver's license in good standing and acceptable driving record.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently. Bilingual is a plus.
• High degree of overall computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to effectively present information to client families, co-workers, and leadership.
• Demonstrated willingness to participate in growing market share through active, personal involvement in community-based organizations.
• Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external customers, community leaders, and grieving client families.
• Ability to empathize with client families and their guests, demonstrating tact and patience in emotionally charged situations.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude and working environment through organization and communication.
• Strong active listening skills to understand the needs of client families.
• Attention to detail, follow-through, and ability to work in a team setting.
• Tactful and professional behavior when dealing with complaints or dissatisfaction with services or merchandise.

Skills

• Communication Proficiency
• Teamwork Orientation
• Detail Orientation
• Thoroughness
• Customer Service Orientation
• Social Perceptiveness
• Time Management

Benefits

• Financial assistance programs encouraging education and development in industry-related subjects.
• Robust Health and Welfare Plans, and savings account options designed to support personal needs and enhance well-being.
• Rich 401k and Roth Retirement Plan options available for both Full-Time and Part-Time employees, along with a Company Match.
• Variety of Vacation, Personal Days, and Sick Days based on role, emphasizing physical and emotional replenishment.
• Employee Discounts on services, merchandise, and property.

Culture

We value honesty, courage, integrity, ethical behavior, and personal growth. Rooted in the communities we serve, we provide a personal touch to every family. We believe in the value of funeral and cemetery service, drawing on decades of experience to create the best experience for our families.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Duties are generally performed in an indoor office setting but may also occur outdoors, exposing employees to natural elements such as inclement weather, extreme temperatures, uneven ground, dust, gas, and fumes.
• Equipment used includes computers, fax machines, copiers, multi-line phone systems, AV systems, body lifts, casket handling/transport devices, and personal or company-owned vehicles.
• Must have sufficient strength and manual dexterity and comply with safety procedures, including wearing personal protective equipment.
• Regularly required to climb, sit, stand, bend, kneel, and frequently lift up to 75 pounds (may be required to lift up to 100 pounds).
• Requires power reaching, pushing, and pulling.
• Must be able to perform job duties when awakened from a sound sleep.
• Routine exposure to chemicals and/or bloodborne pathogens: High.
• Must be able to drive a company vehicle, maintain a good driving record, and be insurable under company vehicle insurance.
• Overtime may be necessary or required.

Travel

This position may require up to 10 percent out-of-area or overnight travel, primarily local and occurring during the business day.