11 Embalmer Skills: Definition and Examples

By ResumeCat Editorial Team
Updated June 7, 2023

An embalmer is a professional who prepares the dead for burial. Embalmers are trained in the art of preserving the human body and use a variety of chemicals and techniques to do so. There are 12 skills that every embalmer must master in order to be successful in their field.

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Embalmer Skills

• Restorative art
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Anatomy
• Embalming fluid preparation
• Injection and drainage of embalming fluids
• Cavity treatment
• Facial reconstruction 9. Dressing and cosmetology
• Restoring lividity
• Sanitary care
• Use of chemicals

Restorative art

The Restorative Art skill is used to create and maintain lifelike appearances in corpses and other dead tissue. This can be used to prepare a body for burial, to create a memorial for someone who has died, or to help identify a body that has been damaged beyond recognition. This skill requires a steady hand, patience, and an eye for detail.

Chemistry

Embalmers need a strong understanding of chemistry in order to properly prepare bodies for burial. They must be able to mix the right chemicals in order to preserve the body and prevent decomposition.

Biology

Biology is the study of living organisms and their structure, function, growth, evolution, and distribution. As an embalmer, you will need to have a basic understanding of biology in order to properly prepare a body for burial.

Anatomy

Anatomy is the study of the structure and function of the human body. As an embalmer, you need to have a good understanding of anatomy in order to properly prepare a body for burial.

Embalming fluid preparation

Embalming fluid is a mixture of chemicals used to preserve human remains. It is injected into the body through the arteries, and works by preventing decomposition and bacteria growth.

Injection and drainage of embalming fluids

The injection and drainage of embalming fluids is a necessary part of the embalming process. Embalming fluid must be injected into the body in order to preserve it, and then the excess fluid must be drained away. This skill is necessary in order to ensure that the body is properly preserved and that the embalming process is carried out correctly.

Cavity treatment

Cavity treatment is a process in which the body cavity is treated with chemicals and then sealed. This is done to prevent decomposition and to preserve the body.

Facial reconstruction 9. Dressing and cosmetology

Facial reconstruction is the process of rebuilding or restoring the face to its original appearance. This can be done for medical reasons, such as after a car accident or other injury, or for cosmetic reasons. It requires a high level of skill and training to be able to create a natural-looking result.

Restoring lividity

Lividity is the pooling of blood in the lowest parts of the body after death. It is caused by gravity and is usually permanent. Embalmers need to be able to restore lividity in order to create a more natural appearance for the deceased.

Sanitary care

Sanitary care is the practice of keeping things clean and free of germs. This is important for embalmers because they need to ensure that the bodies they are working with are clean and free of disease.

Use of chemicals

The use of chemicals is an important skill for embalmers, as it allows them to preserve the body and prevent decomposition. Chemicals are also used to mask the odor of decomposition and make the body more presentable for viewing.

How to improve embalmer skills

As an embalmer, your job is to prepare the dead for burial or cremation. This involves cleaning and disinfecting the body, as well as applying any necessary cosmetics. Embalming is both an art and a science, and it takes a great deal of skill to do it properly. If you're looking to improve your embalming skills, here are a few tips:

1. Read up on the latest techniques. There are always new ways to embalm a body, and it's important to stay up-to-date on the latest developments. Read books, attend seminars, and talk to other embalmers to learn about new methods and products.

2. Practice, practice, practice. The more you embalm bodies, the better you'll become at it. Make sure you have plenty of practice before taking on paying customers.

3. Be detail-oriented. When embalming a body, every detail matters. Pay close attention to what you're doing and don't take shortcuts.

4. Use high-quality products. Cheap products will only result in poor results. Use only the best products available to ensure that your work is of the highest quality.

5. Stay calm under pressure. Embalming can be a stressful job, especially when working with difficult cases. It's important to remain calm and focused no matter what the situation is.

By following these tips, you can improve your embalming skills and provide better service for your clients.

How to highlight embalmer skills

If you're looking to highlight your skills as an embalmer, there are a few things you can do. For one, be sure to emphasize your experience with the process of embalming. This includes everything from preparing the body to working with chemicals and fluids. You should also highlight your ability to work with families during this difficult time. This means being able to answer their questions and provide support. Finally, emphasize your attention to detail. This is important in ensuring that the body is prepared correctly and that the funeral service runs smoothly.

On a resume

As an embalmer, you are responsible for the preparation of human remains for burial. In order to highlight your skills as an embalmer on a resume, you should list your experience in the field, as well as any relevant education or training. You should also highlight your ability to work with grieving families, as this is an important aspect of the job.

In a cover letter

In your cover letter, be sure to highlight your skills as an embalmer. Mention your experience working with different chemicals and how you are able to safely and effectively use them. Describe how you are able to prepare bodies for burial or cremation, including dressing them and applying makeup. Also mention your ability to work with grieving families and provide them with support during the funeral planning process.

During an interview

When you are interviewing for an Embalmer position, be sure to highlight your skills in the area. You should be able to discuss the process of embalming in detail, as well as your experience in the field. Be sure to emphasize your ability to work with families during this difficult time, and your knowledge of the funeral industry.