What does an Embalmer do?

An Embalmer plays an important role in the success of a funeral home. By correctly preparing bodies, they ensure that the facility complies with local and state laws while lowering the likelihood of spreading infections and other communicable diseases. Their job duties also aid people grieving the loss of a loved one and make the deceased appear suitable for visitation. As a result, Embalmers directly affects both customer satisfaction rates and business reputation.

Embalmer skills and qualifications

To perform well as an Embalmer, candidates must meet certain qualifications. The following are some skills that you may wish to mention when creating an Embalmer job description:

• Ability to operate embalming equipment and use embalming tools

• Knowledge of standard embalming procedures as well as state and local laws and regulations

• Ability to remain upright for long periods

• Understanding of human anatomy, biology and chemistry

• Ability to move bodies and equipment from location to location

• Written communication skills to maintain accurate records

• Attentiveness to detail to ensure that bodies are prepared correctly

• Multitasking skills to attend to multiple bodies at one time

Embalmer experience requirements

Generally, prospective Embalmers need some hands-on experience before they are ready to work independently. The minimum experience requirement is usually a one-year apprenticeship, during which new Embalmers work under the direct supervision of a licensed Embalmer. However, you may wish to specify more work experience being required or preferred in your Embalmer job description. For example, if you run a busy funeral home, an Embalmer who has worked in the field for two to three years may be better able to keep up with the pace. 

Embalmer education and training requirements

Embalmer education requirements vary from state to state. However, a professional license is usually necessary to work in the field. Typically, this requires completing an approved mortuary science training program. After completing the program, Embalmers generally move onto an apprenticeship that can last between one and three years and then pass a written exam to earn their licenses.

At some funeral homes, Embalmers assist with funeral planning. If this job duty will be listed on your Embalmer job description, you may wish to prioritize candidates who hold a relevant voluntary certification. The National Funeral Directors Association awards a Certified Pre-Planning Consultant certification for individuals who sell pre-planned funerals. Another common certification is the Funeral Services Associate credential awarded by the American Institute of Funeral Service Associates.

Embalmer salary expectations

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for an Embalmer is $54,210 per year. Actual salaries vary based on candidates’ geographic location, experience, education and certification status.

Embalmer job description FAQs

What’s the difference between an Embalmer and a Mortician?

A Mortician is responsible for working with the surviving loved ones of a deceased person. They help families choose burial methods, select urns and caskets and arrange funerals. An Embalmer focuses on preparing the body of a deceased individual for either cremation or burial. Some Morticians are also Embalmers.

What’s the difference between an Embalmer and a Funeral Director?

A Funeral Director helps plan visitations and funerals and then ensures that these plans get executed smoothly on the day of the event. They make arrangements with houses of worship, cemeteries and mausoleums on behalf of the bereaved and may coordinate with service providers like caterers and florists. Some Funeral Directors are also Embalmers.

What makes for a good Embalmer job description?

To write an Embalmer job description that attracts candidates, lead with a bulleted list of the key benefits of working for your organization. You may want to call attention to things like employee benefits, retirement plans, covering continuing education costs and flexible scheduling. A good job description for an Embalmer position will also be specific when describing job duties. Since some Embalmers are also Funeral Directors and/or Morticians, candidates need to know what your open position involves to decide if they are a good fit.

What qualities make a good Embalmer?

There are a few qualities that you can look for in candidates that indicate they may make good Embalmers. A passion for science can help drive an Embalmer and lower the likelihood of burnout. Embalmers must be emotionally resilient, as they often see bodies in poor condition. Because Embalmers often work alone, candidates also benefit from being confident in their decision-making skills and having an independent spirit.