Funeral Director/Embalmer Apprentice

Service Corporation International•Williamsburg, VA

About The Position

Under the guidance of a licensed funeral director, the Funeral Director/Embalmer Apprentice implements choices made by families’ legal representatives regarding funeral arrangements, final disposition, and memorialization. The role provides customer service for funeral arrangements, cremation ceremonies, and interment, assisting families after the loss of a loved one with personalized, professional service. The position includes on-call responsibilities and care of the deceased, including transfers, embalming, dressing, styling, and preparing cremated remains. The apprentice arranges and conducts funeral and memorial ceremonies, handles contracts and related documents and payments, and coordinates interment or cremation. The role also assists with funeral services and aftercare, completes service-related records, follows applicable licensing rules and regulations, and participates in community organizations to retain heritage and grow market share.

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 board requirements.
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 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 or 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, and handle contracts, legal documents, and payment collection in accordance with company policies.
Inform client families about available veteran recognition and services and ensure selected services are delivered.
Arrange for interment or cremation of human remains.
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 compliance with applicable professional, municipal, provincial or state, and federal licensing 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.