Apprentice Funeral Director

Horan • Lakewood, CO

2d

About The Position

Under the direct supervision of a licensed individual, the Apprentice Funeral Director assists client families with arranging and carrying out services related to preparation, memorialization, and burial or cremation. The apprentice gains on-the-job experience while helping ensure that the expectations of client families and their guests are exceeded.

The role involves assisting with arrangements and documentation, coordinating service details, helping prepare and present the deceased, supporting families and attendees during services, and assisting with transportation and shipment of remains. Duties are generally performed in an indoor office setting, though some work may be outdoors and involve exposure to natural elements, chemicals, and blood-borne pathogens. The role has no direct supervisory responsibilities. Overtime may sometimes be necessary or required, and travel may include up to 10% out of area and overnight travel.

Requirements

• Active attendance 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.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently.
• High degree of overall computer proficiency, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Ability to effectively present information to client families, co-workers, 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 behavior when handling complaints or dissatisfaction with services or merchandise.
• Willingness to participate in growing market share through active, personal participation in complimentary, community-based organizations.
• Ability to work safely and comply with company safety procedures, including wearing required personal protective equipment.
• Ability to drive a company vehicle, maintain a good driving record, and qualify for coverage under company vehicle insurance.
• Ability to perform job duties when awakened from a sound sleep.
• Ability to climb, sit, stand, bend, kneel, reach with power, push, and pull; frequently lift up to 75 pounds and potentially lift up to 100 pounds.
• Ability to work with routine exposure to chemicals and/or blood-borne pathogens.

Nice To Haves

• Four-year degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Bilingual ability.

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 all 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, other 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 preparation of 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 ensure timely departure and arrival.
• Assist with arranging and coordinating shipment of remains to and from other cities and locations.
• Work removals and first calls as needed.
• Identify and remedy hazards on the grounds.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Financial assistance programs supporting 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 for 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