The first job of funeral directors and embalmers is to make arrangements with the family of the deceased so that they can lay their loved one to rest in a dignified manner.
This involves coordinating with them to pick out appropriate clothing and caskets, as well as offering guidance during the funeral service itself.
The second responsibility that most funeral directors and embalmers have is preparing the body so that it will be presented at the service.
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So How Much Does a Funeral Director and Embalmer Make?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that the average salary for this profession range from $27,000 to $142,750, although top earners bring home more.
What’s more, employment for funeral directors and embalmers is expected to increase by 10% from 2021 to 2026, which means that your earnings potential will also continue to grow.
The Job Description
A funeral director and embalmer are responsible for caring for the dead and preparing their bodies for burial.
This includes washing, dressing, and cosmetics. They also often lead funeral services and help grieving families with arrangements.
Funeral directors must have a license in most states.
Most funeral directors work full time, although some work part-time. Many are on call 24 hours a day to respond to deaths.
Some funeral homes offer evening and weekend hours to accommodate family working during the day.
Skills Needed to Become a Mortician
To become a mortician, you will need to have excellent people skills. After all, you will be working with grieving families regularly.
You will also need to be comfortable with the physical aspects of the job, as you will be responsible for preparing bodies for burial.
In addition, you should have a strong stomach, as you will be dealing with blood and other bodily fluids daily.
Finally, you must be detail-oriented and organized, as this job requires precision and care.
To become a mortician, you will need to have excellent communication skills. You will also need to be able to handle delicate situations with tact and sensitivity.
In addition, you must be able to work well under pressure and have strong organizational skills.
As a mortician, you will also need to understand the grieving process well.
Finally, you must maintain a professional demeanor at all times.
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Embalmer Salary (See What You Will Make and Why)
Many people are interested in becoming an embalmer, but they are not sure what the job entails or how much they will make.
An embalmer’s salary can vary depending on experience, location, and employer.
The average salary for an embalmer is $40,000 per year. However, those with more experience can make up to $60,000 annually.
The job of an embalmer is to prepare the deceased’s body for burial or cremation.
This includes sanitizing the body, draining the blood, and replacing it with fluids that preserve it.
Embalmers must have a mortuary science degree and be licensed to practice.
For this reason, most funeral directors take four years of college before entering into their apprenticeship period.
In addition to these qualifications, funeral directors must also have excellent interpersonal skills and knowledge about religions, cultures, and customs to provide proper services for families from different backgrounds.
Where Do Funeral Directors Work?
Funeral directors work in funeral homes, often in or near cemeteries.
Some funeral directors own their own funeral homes, while others work for large corporations that operate multiple funeral homes.
Funeral directors typically work regular business hours, but they may be on call 24 hours a day to respond to deaths outside of regular business hours.
What State Pays Embalmers Most?
California is the top-paying state for embalmers, with a mean annual salary of $94,110.
This is followed by Texas, where embalmers earn a mean annual salary of $79,280.
The lowest-paying state for this occupation is Florida, where embalmers earn a mean annual salary of $39,560.
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Conclusion
Though the job of a funeral director and embalmer is not easy, it is a rewarding profession.
You get to help people during one of the most challenging times in their lives, and you also get to play an essential role in ensuring that their loved ones are taken care of after they pass away.
In terms of mortician salary, funeral directors and embalmers make a good living. The median annual wage for funeral directors is $51,000, while the median yearly salary for embalmers is $48,000.
So if you’re considering a career in this field, rest assured that you will be compensated well for your work.