Career Profile

Embalmers

What they do:

Prepare bodies for interment in conformity with legal requirements.

Also Called:

Embalmer, Licensed Embalmer, Trade Embalmer, Embalmer, Licensed Embalmer, Trade Embalmer
$50,550
Starting Salary (2025)
$71,550
Median Salary (2025)
1.3%
Projected Job Growth
80
OH Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Clean and disinfect areas in which bodies are prepared and embalmed.
Close incisions, using needles and sutures.
Conform to laws of health and sanitation and ensure that legal requirements concerning embalming are met.
Maintain records, such as itemized lists of clothing or valuables delivered with body and names of persons embalmed.
Perform special procedures necessary for remains that are to be transported to other states or overseas, or where death was caused by infectious disease.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Social
Working with people

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Integrity
Dependability
Self-Control
Attention to Detail
Concern for Others
Stress Tolerance

What key skills are needed for this job?

Speaking
Active Listening
Time Management
Service Orientation
Social Perceptiveness
Writing

Expected Knowledge

Customer and Personal Service

Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

Chemistry

Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

Psychology

Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.

Common Activities

Assisting and Caring for Others

Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.

Documenting/Recording Information

Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.

Making Decisions and Solving Problems

Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 3

Medium Preparation Needed

Education

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • Associate's degree 86%
  • Bachelor's degree 14%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

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