Funeral Attendant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of end-of-life services, the role of funeral attendants is indispensable.

As we navigate the journey of life, the need for compassionate individuals who can sensitively manage funeral proceedings grows more significant.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a funeral attendant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the funeral service industry,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable funeral attendant job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Funeral Attendant Duties and Responsibilities

Funeral Attendants provide support during funeral services, viewings, and interments to ensure that each step runs as smoothly and respectfully as possible.

Their duties often require a high level of professionalism and sensitivity.

They often have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Greet and direct attendees during funeral services and visitations
• Assist with the setup and breakdown of the viewing, funeral service, or interment
• Prepare the deceased for viewings, including dressing and placing them in the casket
• Move the casket to the funeral parlor, chapel, or graveside
• Assist the family with any special requests during the service
• Ensure the funeral home and chapel are clean and presentable
• Help with paperwork and administrative tasks related to the funeral services
• Transport family members and flowers to and from the service
• Maintain a professional and empathetic demeanor at all times
• Assist in the maintenance of the funeral home vehicles and equipment

 

Funeral Attendant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Funeral Attendant to assist in the organization and execution of funeral services.

Funeral Attendant responsibilities include greeting and directing visitors, setting up the location for services, preparing the remains, and providing comfort and support to bereaved family members.

Our ideal candidate has excellent interpersonal skills, a respectful and caring demeanor, and the ability to handle the logistical aspects of funeral services with tact and precision.

 

Responsibilities

• Greet and direct visitors in a polite and professional manner
• Set up and clean up before and after services
• Assist with the preparation and presentation of the remains
• Transport the deceased to the funeral home and/or cemetery
• Provide emotional support and comfort to bereaved family members
• Carry out administrative tasks such as answering phones and completing paperwork
• Collaborate with funeral directors to ensure services run smoothly
• Ensure all health and safety regulations are adhered to at all times

 

Qualifications

• Previous work experience as a Funeral Attendant or in a similar role is desirable
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to handle stressful and emotional situations with sensitivity
• Understanding of funeral customs and procedures
• Physical stamina and ability to lift heavy items
• Excellent time management and organization skills
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Funeral Attendant
• Work Environment: Primarily in a funeral home setting. Physical demands include lifting and transporting remains, and standing for extended periods of time.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Funeral Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $23,660 minimum to $34,320 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What does a Funeral Attendant do?

Funeral Attendants are integral to the operation of funeral homes and crematories.

They assist in the preparation of the deceased for visitations, funerals, and cremation or burial.

Their duties often include receiving and ushering mourners, providing them with service details, and answering their queries.

They may also help in transporting the deceased from homes or hospitals to the funeral home.

Funeral Attendants are also responsible for preparing the viewing area, setting up the casket, arranging flowers, and ensuring that all necessary supplies are available.

During the funeral or memorial service, they may assist in directing the procession to gravesites, handing out programs, and maintaining order.

Additionally, they might be involved in the cleaning and maintenance of funeral home facilities and vehicles, ensuring that these are always ready for use.

Overall, Funeral Attendants offer compassionate support to grieving families while meticulously performing their duties in a respectful and professional manner.

 

Funeral Attendant Qualifications and Skills

A proficient funeral attendant should possess the skills and qualifications that align with the sensitive and respectful nature of their role, such as:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with grieving family members and comfort them during a difficult time.
• Time management skills to ensure funerals and memorial services start and end on schedule, as well as manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Knowledge of funeral service practices and procedures, along with understanding the customs of various religions and ethnic groups.
• Detail-oriented to correctly handle arrangements such as transporting bodies, setting up caskets, and managing floral arrangements.
• Physical strength and stamina to lift and carry heavy items such as caskets and other funeral equipment.
• Display compassion, empathy and a caring attitude when dealing with grieving families.
• Ability to work well under pressure and manage potentially stressful and emotionally charged situations.
• Professionalism and proper etiquette, always respecting the solemnity and dignity of the occasion.
• Flexibility to work odd hours, including evenings and weekends, as funeral services can occur at any time.

 

Funeral Attendant Experience Requirements

Entry-level funeral attendants typically have at least 1 to 2 years of experience in a customer service or healthcare role, providing them with the necessary interpersonal skills and ability to handle sensitive situations.

This experience may be gained through part-time roles or internships.

Funeral attendants may also gain relevant practical experience through formal education in mortuary science or a related field.

These programs often include a hands-on practicum or internship component in a funeral home setting.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience often have worked in funeral homes or in similar settings where they have developed their understanding of funeral services and operations, including the transportation of bodies, preparation for services, and maintenance of facilities.

Those with more than 5 years of experience have likely held roles with more responsibility such as Funeral Director or Mortician.

These experienced professionals may have overseen all aspects of funeral services, from embalming and cosmetic preparation of bodies, to managing the logistics of the service, and providing emotional support to grieving families.

Such candidates are well-equipped for leadership roles within funeral homes or other related establishments.

 

Funeral Attendant Education and Training Requirements

Funeral Attendants generally require a high school diploma or equivalent for entry-level positions.

Some employers may prefer candidates with an associate degree or certificate in funeral service education.

Programs in funeral service education cover topics such as embalming, restorative arts, funeral service psychology, and funeral service law.

These programs usually include both classroom instruction and hands-on training, preparing students for the practical aspects of the job.

In addition to formal education, funeral attendants often receive on-the-job training to learn about company policies and procedures.

This training may cover subjects such as religious customs, handling of remains, and customer service.

Most states require funeral attendants to hold a state-issued license.

Licensing requirements vary by state, but they typically include a minimum age requirement, a specified amount of education or training, and passing a state-administered examination.

Continuing education is also important for funeral attendants, as it allows them to stay up-to-date with industry trends, legal requirements, and best practices.

This may involve attending workshops, seminars, or conferences.

While not always required, certification from a professional organization, such as the National Funeral Directors Association, can enhance a funeral attendant’s career prospects and demonstrate their commitment to professional standards.

 

Funeral Attendant Salary Expectations

A Funeral Attendant typically earns an average of $27,000 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can vary greatly based on experience, skills, geographic location, and the size of the funeral home they work for.

 

Funeral Attendant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Funeral Attendant need?

Funeral Attendants should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with grieving families and make them feel comfortable.

They need to be organized, as they are often responsible for arranging the details of a service.

Attendants should also be empathetic and able to provide emotional support to the bereaved.

 

Do Funeral Attendants need a degree?

While a degree is not required, a Funeral Attendant must have a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Some funeral homes might require their attendants to have completed a funeral service education program, and in certain states, Funeral Attendants might need to be licensed.

 

What should you look for in a Funeral Attendant resume?

A Funeral Attendant resume should show experience in a customer service role or a similar position that requires strong interpersonal skills.

Any experience in the funeral services industry is also a plus.

Look for indications of a supportive and empathetic demeanor, as well as the ability to handle stressful situations.

 

What qualities make a good Funeral Attendant?

A good Funeral Attendant is patient, considerate, and has a genuine desire to help others.

They should be able to provide support and comfort to grieving families.

Funeral Attendants should also have the ability to handle high-stress situations and work well under pressure.

 

What are the daily duties of a Funeral Attendant?

A Funeral Attendant’s daily duties may include preparing the body for viewing, arranging transportation for the body, setting up and cleaning the viewing area, providing support to grieving families, and assisting with paperwork.

They may also be responsible for driving the hearse and other vehicles in the funeral procession.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Funeral Attendant?

Hiring a Funeral Attendant can be challenging as it requires finding someone with the right mix of interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to handle potentially distressing situations.

They also need to be comfortable working in an environment that constantly deals with death and bereavement.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the veil on what it genuinely means to be a funeral attendant.

You know what?

It’s not just about conducting services.

It’s about providing comfort and support in times of grief, one kind gesture at a time.

With our essential funeral attendant job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to step forward.

But why limit yourself there?

Plunge deeper with our job description generator. It’s your subsequent step to crafting precise job postings or refining your resume to perfection.

How to Become a Funeral Attendant (Complete Guide)
Always remember:

Every act of compassion is a piece of the broader mosaic.

Let’s navigate this journey. Together.

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