Funeral Director/Embalmer Apprentice

SCI Shared Resources•Springfield, IL

11d

About The Position

Under the guidance of a licensed funeral director, the Funeral Director/Embalmer Apprentice implements choices made by families’ legal representatives regarding funerals, final disposition of the body, and memorialization. The role provides customer service for funeral arrangements, cremation ceremonies, and interment, supporting families after the loss of a loved one with personalized and professional service. The apprentice cares for the deceased respectfully, arranges and assists with funeral and memorial services, handles contracts and related documentation, and helps ensure compliance with applicable licensing requirements and regulations. The role also supports aftercare, community involvement, and the sharing of potential pre-need referrals with Family Service Counselors.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Completion of, or current enrollment in, a dual-degree training program at an accredited mortuary college or technical school specializing in funeral and mortuary science, as required by applicable state or provincial law and the relevant state board.
Typically, at least 6 months of experience in a funeral home, crematory, or cemetery.
Meet all licensing requirements in the applicable state or province as required by law and the relevant state board.
Current state- or province-issued driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Basic knowledge of customs of religious and fraternal organizations.
Knowledge of computers and some software, including MS Office Suite.
High level of compassion and integrity.
Good communication skills.
Problem-solving skills.
Ability to multitask and set priorities.
Attention to detail.

Responsibilities

Perform on-call duties, including taking first calls, speaking with families, answering questions, providing initial details, and conducting transfers.
Supervise and care for the deceased respectfully, including verifying identification, obtaining embalming authorization, embalming, dressing, styling hair, applying cosmetics, and preparing cremated remains.
Arrange and conduct funeral and memorial ceremonies in a professional, organized, and caring manner consistent with company policies and procedures.
Negotiate and enter into funeral contracts, handle contracts and legal documents, and collect payments in accordance with company policies.
Inform client families about special recognition and services available for veterans and ensure selected services are delivered.
Arrange interment or cremation of human remains and confirm authorization to proceed with service arrangements.
Supervise or assist with funeral services, including parking, ushering, driving funeral vehicles, assisting at chapel, church, and cemetery services, delivering flowers and other items, setting up and removing chairs, and participating in special functions.
Ensure adherence to applicable professional, municipal, state or provincial, and federal licensing authority requirements, regulations, and rules.
Provide aftercare when a Family Service Counselor is absent.
Share potential pre-need referrals with Family Service Counselors.
Prepare and accurately complete documents and online entries related to services, cremations, and maintenance.
Participate actively in community, religious, and other organizations to retain heritage and grow market share.