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What does a Funeral Director do?

Learn all about Funeral Director duties, skills and much more. Get expert advice on how to become a Funeral Director.

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Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A funeral director is responsible for the coordination and supervision of a funeral service. This includes making arrangements with the family of the deceased, preparing the body for burial, and overseeing the funeral ceremony.

Funeral Director job duties include:

  • Arrange transportation of the deceased
  • Embalm or preside over the preparation of the deceased for burial or cremation
  • Coordinate funeral services with cemetery, church, and/or cremation services
  • Select casket, urn, or other final resting place for the deceased
  • Obtain necessary permits and arrange for any required documentation
  • Notify relevant parties of the death, such as family members, employer, etc.
  • Arrange for pallbearers and coordinate their participation in the funeral service
  • Preside over the funeral service
  • Interact with grieving family members and friends to offer support and assistance
  • Manage the funeral home staff and facilities

Funeral Director Job Requirements

A funeral director is responsible for the coordination and supervision of a funeral service. They work with the family of the deceased to ensure that all arrangements are made according to the family’s wishes. A funeral director must have a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and must be licensed by the state in which they practice. Most funeral directors have several years of experience working in the funeral industry before becoming a funeral director.

Funeral Director Skills

  • Emotional stability
  • Compassion
  • Attention to detail
  • Communication skills
  • Organizational skills
  • Time management skills
  • Stress management skills
  • Ability to work independently
  • Physical stamina
  • Strength (physical)
  • Manual dexterity

Related: Top Funeral Director Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Funeral Director

A funeral director is a professional who helps families plan and carry out funerals. If you are interested in becoming a funeral director, there are a few things you need to know.

First, you will need to complete an accredited mortuary science program. This can be done at a community college or university. Once you have completed your program, you will need to pass the state licensing exam in order to become a licensed funeral director.

Once you are licensed, you will need to find a job with a funeral home. Many funeral directors start out working as apprentices before they become licensed. This allows them to learn the business and gain experience before they take on the responsibility of running their own funeral home.

As a funeral director, you will be responsible for helping families plan funerals, transport bodies, and arrange for burial or cremation services. You will also be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the funeral home, including hiring staff, ordering supplies, and keeping records.

If you are interested in helping people during one of the most difficult times in their lives, then becoming a funeral director may be the right career choice for you.

Related: Funeral Director Resume Example

Related: Funeral Director Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

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