Funeral Attendant

Your Fit

Income

$35K

Preparation

Some

Growth

2.8%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Funeral Attendant?

A Funeral Attendant assists with the activities at a funeral home, providing support in the preparation and execution of funeral services. This role involves a range of duties, from preparing viewing rooms to assisting during the funeral ceremony.

Sample job titles:

Funeral Assistant, Funeral Attendant, Funeral Director, Funeral Home Assistant

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Funeral Attendant.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Funeral Attendant earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$27K per year	$29K per year	$35K per year	$39K per year	$47K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $15K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Funeral Attendant do?

Work environment

Funeral Attendants work in funeral homes, cemeteries, and occasionally in places of worship. The environment requires a respectful and somber demeanor, often working under emotionally challenging circumstances. Work hours may vary, including weekends and evenings, to accommodate funeral services.

Quick task list

Prepares the viewing or funeral service areas, including setting up chairs and placing flowers.
Assists in moving the deceased to the funeral home and preparing them for the service.
Provides information and assistance to mourners.
Drives the hearse or other funeral vehicles.
Ensures the smooth operation of funeral processes and adherence to protocols.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Mortuary Assistance: Assisting with the preparation of the body, including embalming and dressing.
Funeral Service Coordination: Focusing on the planning and execution of funeral services.
Grief Support: Providing emotional support and resources to grieving families.
Cemetery Operations: Specializing in burial and cemetery maintenance tasks.
Crematory Operations: Handling aspects of cremation and related services.

Description

Funeral Attendants play a crucial role in ensuring that funeral services run smoothly and respectfully. The job requires a unique combination of customer service skills and the ability to handle sensitive situations with compassion and dignity. Attendees need to be comfortable working around deceased individuals and providing support to grieving families.

The occupation demands strong interpersonal skills, as funeral attendants often interact with people who are experiencing significant emotional distress. Being able to offer comfort and guidance during these times is a key aspect of the job. The role also involves a variety of practical tasks, from moving the deceased to setting up for services, requiring physical stamina and attention to detail.

Working as a Funeral Attendant can be emotionally taxing but also deeply rewarding. It provides an opportunity to help people during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. The role is best suited for those who are empathetic, respectful, and capable of maintaining their composure in solemn environments.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Providing comfort and support to grieving families during difficult times.
Contributing to a respectful and dignified final tribute for the deceased.
Working in a role that emphasizes compassion, care, and the importance of memorial traditions.

You might make a good Funeral Attendant if you are...

Comfortable and respectful in working around deceased individuals.
Compassionate, empathetic, and able to provide support to those in grief.
Detail-oriented, ensuring that funeral services are carried out smoothly.
Able to maintain composure and professionalism in emotionally challenging situations.
Interested in the traditions and customs surrounding funerals and memorial services.

Pros:

Rewarding work that makes a meaningful impact on individuals during a difficult time.
Opportunities for personal growth and development of strong interpersonal skills.
A stable career path with opportunities in various funeral service areas.

Cons:

Emotionally challenging and potentially stressful work environment.
Irregular hours, including the possibility of working on weekends and evenings.
Physical demands, including moving the deceased and preparation of service areas.

How to become a Funeral Attendant

Typical education

Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Some funeral homes may provide on-the-job training, and additional courses in mortuary science can be beneficial.

High school preparation

Courses:

Psychology to understand grief and coping mechanisms.
Health or Biology to gain a basic understanding of human anatomy.
Business Studies to learn about the administrative aspects of funeral services.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Volunteering in community support roles, such as at hospices or elderly care facilities.
Participating in clubs or groups that focus on community service and support.
Engaging in public speaking or drama activities to develop composure and presentation skills.

Preparation after high school

Pursuing additional courses or certification in mortuary science or funeral service education.
Gaining experience through internships or apprenticeships in funeral homes.
Attending workshops or seminars on grief counseling or support.

More resources

National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) - Offers resources and education for funeral service professionals.
American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE) - Provides information on accredited mortuary science programs.
International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) - Offers training and resources for all aspects of funeral service.
Funeral Service Foundation - Provides resources and support for funeral service professionals and those in training.

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