Apprentice Funeral Director

Park Lawn Corporation • Oklahoma City, OK

4d

About The Position

Under the direct supervision of a licensed individual, the Apprentice Funeral Director works with client families to arrange and carry out services related to preparation, memorialization, and burial or cremation of the deceased. While gaining on-the-job experience, the apprentice helps ensure that client families’ expectations are exceeded. The role’s duties are generally performed in an indoor office setting, with some outdoor work and up to 10 percent out-of-area and overnight travel. Travel is primarily local and during the business day. Overtime is sometimes necessary or required. This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Requirements

• Active attendance at or enrollment in a Mortuary School/Program.
• Ability to pass applicable National and State Board exams.
• Valid state-issued driver’s license in good standing and an acceptable driving record; must be able to drive a company vehicle and be insurable under company vehicle insurance.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently.
• High degree of overall computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Ability to effectively present information to client families, coworkers, and leadership.
• Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external customers, community leaders, and grieving client families.
• Ability to empathize with client families and guests and demonstrate tact and patience in emotionally charged situations.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude and working environment through organization and communication.
• Ability to actively listen to client families’ needs.
• Attention to detail and follow-through.
• Tactful and professional conduct when addressing complaints or dissatisfaction with services or merchandise.
• Ability and willingness to work safely and comply with company safety procedures, including wearing required personal protective equipment.
• Ability to perform job duties when awakened from a sound sleep.
• Ability to meet physical demands, including climbing, sitting, standing, bending, kneeling, power reaching, pushing and pulling, and frequent lifting of up to 75 pounds, with lifting up to 100 pounds potentially required.
• Routine exposure to chemicals and/or blood-borne pathogens; exposure risk is classified as high.

Nice To Haves

• Four-year degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience preferred.
• Bilingual ability is a plus.
• Willingness to participate in growing market share through active, personal participation in complimentary, community-based organizations.

Responsibilities

• Observe and assist the Funeral Director in consulting with client families or the deceased’s legal representative to create services that meet their memorialization expectations.
• Ensure client families are presented with available merchandise and service options.
• Obtain information needed to complete documents such as obituaries, death certificates, burial permits, and insurance forms.
• Participate in service arrangements and coordinate details with clergy, presiding persons, fraternal or military organizations, and other participants.
• Use systems to record merchandise selections, enter contracts, and complete necessary forms.
• Assist with planning and scheduling visitations and services.
• Under the direction of a licensed Funeral Director and/or Embalmer, participate in preparing the deceased, including dressing and casketing.
• Assist with placing caskets in visitation areas, adjusting light fixtures, and arranging flowers or plants.
• Help direct and usher families and service attendees to and from funeral service locations.
• Assist with transporting client families to support timely departures and arrivals.
• Assist with arranging and coordinating shipment of remains to and from other cities and locations.
• Work removals/first-calls as needed.
• Identify and remedy hazards on the grounds.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Financial assistance programs encouraging education and development in industry-related subjects.
• Health and welfare plans and savings account options.
• 401(k) and Roth retirement plan options with a company match, available to full-time and part-time employees.
• Vacation, personal days, and sick days based on role.
• Employee discounts on services, merchandise, and property.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level