Mortuary Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s world, the role of a Mortuary Manager has never been more pivotal.

Society moves forward, and with each progression, the demand for competent individuals who can manage, coordinate, and ensure the smooth functioning of our mortuary operations heightens.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Mortuary Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager delineating the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the inner workings of mortuary management,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s delve right into it.

Mortuary Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Mortuary Managers oversee the daily operations of a funeral home, cemetery, or crematory.

They ensure that the establishment adheres to laws and regulations, while providing compassionate assistance to the bereaved.

Their duties and responsibilities often include:

• Overseeing the embalming, cremation, or interment of bodies
• Managing the day-to-day operations of the mortuary facility
• Ensuring all activities comply with health and safety regulations, as well as legal requirements
• Assisting bereaved families by explaining the process and helping them make necessary decisions
• Coordinating funeral services or memorials, including arranging for clergy, flowers, transportation, etc.
• Maintaining accurate records of deceased persons, including death certificates and burial permits
• Working with families to plan and arrange funerals according to their religious or personal preferences
• Managing staff, including hiring, training, and supervising mortuary employees
• Maintaining the facility and equipment, ensuring all are clean and in good condition
• Ordering and managing inventory of supplies such as caskets, urns, and embalming fluid

 

Mortuary Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a highly professional and compassionate Mortuary Manager to oversee all aspects of funeral home operations.

Mortuary Manager responsibilities include supervising staff, planning funeral services, arranging for removal of the deceased, and conducting business management tasks such as compliance with regulations and maintaining records.

The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal and administrative skills, a deep understanding of grief counselling, and the ability to manage the logistical aspects of funeral preparations.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the funeral home
• Supervise funeral services and ensure all arrangements are as per the families’ wishes
• Manage and train mortuary staff
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and professional standards
• Manage financial aspects such as budgeting, pricing, and contracts
• Coordinate and arrange for removal or transportation of the deceased
• Maintain accurate records
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with vendors and community
• Provide grief counseling and support to bereaved families

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a managerial role in a funeral home setting
• Knowledge of mortuary science and understanding of funeral services
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong leadership and business management skills
• Ability to handle emotional situations with sensitivity and professionalism
• A degree in Mortuary Science or a related field
• State Funeral Director License or the ability to obtain one

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Mortuary Manager
• Work Environment: Funeral home. Some travel may be required for removals or services.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Operations or Funeral Home Owner.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $85,000 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 Mortuary Manager Do?

Mortuary Managers oversee the daily operations of a funeral home or mortuary.

They are responsible for managing staff, maintaining facilities and ensuring compliance with local health and safety regulations.

They may also be responsible for training new employees or arranging for their ongoing professional development.

Mortuary Managers work closely with grieving families, helping them to plan and prepare for funerals or other memorial services.

They provide advice and guidance on issues such as choosing a casket or urn, planning the service, and dealing with administrative matters such as death certificates and insurance claims.

They also oversee the embalming and preparation of bodies for burial or cremation, ensuring that this is done in a respectful and professional manner.

Mortuary Managers are also responsible for the business side of the operation, which may include budgeting, maintaining financial records, advertising and marketing, and developing relationships with suppliers and other business partners.

Furthermore, they are also expected to keep up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the funeral service industry, and to ensure that their mortuary is providing a high standard of service to its clients.

 

Mortuary Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Mortuary Manager should have skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Experience in mortuary science and understanding of applicable laws, regulations, and guidelines.
• Excellent organizational and administrative skills to manage operational aspects of a mortuary, such as staffing, inventory management, and budgeting.
• Strong communication skills to coordinate with families, doctors, coroners, and other professionals in sensitive situations.
• Compassion and empathy to provide comfort and support to grieving families and loved ones.
• Detail-oriented and ability to maintain and manage meticulous records related to the deceased and their next of kin.
• Leadership skills to supervise and guide a team of morticians and other mortuary staff.
• Problem-solving abilities to handle any unexpected issues or emergencies that may arise.
• Physical stamina for being on their feet for extended periods, and the ability to perform tasks such as lifting and moving bodies.

 

Mortuary Manager Experience Requirements

Entry-level mortuary managers are expected to have at least 2 to 3 years of experience, typically gained through internships or part-time roles in funeral services or a related field.

This would provide them with practical knowledge and experience in funeral planning, embalming, and cremation services.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience have likely spent considerable time working as funeral directors or embalmers.

They might have developed their skills in areas such as managing funeral operations, coordinating with third-party service providers, maintaining inventory, and complying with legal regulations.

Those with over 7 to 10 years of experience in the field are typically considered for senior management positions.

They are expected to have substantial leadership experience, with a proven track record of managing teams and handling complex logistics related to funeral services.

In addition to this, candidates aiming to become mortuary managers must have completed a program in mortuary science and must hold licensure as a Funeral Director and/or Embalmer, depending on the requirements of the state they are operating in.

 

Mortuary Manager Education and Training Requirements

Mortuary Managers typically need at least an associate’s degree in mortuary science or funeral service education, though a bachelor’s degree can enhance job prospects.

This education involves courses in pathology, anatomy, embalming techniques, business management, funeral services, and legal regulations in the field.

In addition to formal education, all states require Mortuary Managers to be licensed.

The licensing requirements generally include being at least 21 years old, having completed an approved education program, serving an apprenticeship ranging from one to three years, and passing a state and/or national board examination.

Apprenticeships provide practical experience in embalming and restorative techniques, as well as in funeral arrangements and services.

Continuing education is also important for Mortuary Managers, as they must stay informed about changes in laws and regulations, and advancements in embalming and restoration techniques.

Some Mortuary Managers may also choose to earn certifications from professional organizations, such as the National Funeral Directors Association or the International Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards, to demonstrate a higher level of competence and commitment in the field.

 

Mortuary Manager Salary Expectations

A Mortuary Manager typically earns an average salary of $56,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary significantly based on factors such as the number of years of experience, the size and location of the funeral home, and the specific responsibilities of the role.

 

Mortuary Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Mortuary Manager need?

Mortuary Managers need strong organizational and management skills to oversee the daily operations of a funeral home or mortuary.

They should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with bereaved families compassionately and professionally.

They should also have a sound understanding of embalming procedures, cremation protocols, and funeral planning.

 

Do Mortuary Managers need a degree?

Typically, Mortuary Managers need a degree in Mortuary Science or a related field.

They must also be licensed by the state they are working in.

Some states may also require a certain number of years of experience in the field, typically served as an apprentice or intern.

 

What should you look for in a Mortuary Manager resume?

A Mortuary Manager’s resume should highlight their education, licensing, and experience in the funeral service industry.

It should also show leadership experience and skills.

They should have knowledge about different religious and cultural funeral customs.

Any additional training in grief counseling or bereavement services can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Mortuary Manager?

A good Mortuary Manager is empathetic, compassionate, and respectful, as they are working with people who are grieving.

They must also be professional and possess strong leadership skills to manage the mortuary staff effectively.

In addition, they should have good decision-making skills and the ability to work under pressure.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Mortuary Manager?

Hiring a Mortuary Manager can be challenging due to the specific skills, experience, and licensing required for the role.

It’s important to find a candidate who not only has the technical skills but also possesses the empathy and compassion necessary to interact with grieving families.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve opened the doors to the world of being a mortuary manager.

Surprised?

It’s not just about managing a mortuary.

It’s about providing compassionate care and a meticulously organized environment during one of the most challenging times in a person’s life.

With our reliable mortuary manager job description template and real-life examples, you’re well-equipped to make your next career move.

But why stop here?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to creating laser-precise job listings or refining your resume to immaculate standards.

Remember:

Every service you render, every interaction, is a part of a larger story.

Let’s create those stories. Together.

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