Embalmers are involved in preparing bodies for internment so that they conform to laws of health and sanitation, ensuring that legal requirements related to embalming are met. They may apply cosmetics to the bodies of the deceased and are responsible for incising the abdominal walls and the stomach as well as probing internal organs to withdraw blood and waste matter. They reconstruct or reshape maimed or disfigured bodies if necessary, dress bodies and put them in caskets. During the process, they may also remove blood from the body by inserting tubes and replacing it with embalming fluid.
Those who work in smaller funeral homes may perform tasks such as assisting with funeral services. They may also be involved in conducting interviews to arrange for obituary notices, to select caskets and to determine time and location of burials or cremations. Embalmers, who work in healthcare facilities, hospitals, morgues or medical schools, assist with preparing bodies for autopsies or for dissections for research.
Summary
- Most embalmers hold an associate’s degree.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that embalmers held approximately 8,190 jobs in May 2009.
- Embalmers can expand their careers by becoming directors of funeral homes.
- These jobs were mainly in death care services and some were for colleges, universities and professional schools.
- The average annual wage for embalmers in May 2009 was $41,180 according to the BLS.
Work Environment for Embalmers
Work is generally done in well-lighted, clean rooms. Embalmers may need to carry and lift bodies and heavy equipment needed for embalming. Since they may need to meet with family and friends of deceased individuals, they need to be able to deal with people suffering from grief. Embalmers may also come in contact with bodies that have a contagious disease. When following the proper health and safety regulations, the risk of infections is remote.
Education, Training and Licensing
Most embalmers possess an associate’s degree. Some states have licenses for embalmers. Licensing requirements vary across states. This usually includes passing a written and oral examination as well as the demonstration of required skills. Those who desire to stay within the field of embalming can advance to chief embalmer in larger funeral homes, hospitals, morgues or medical schools. Some decide to expand their careers and become directors of funeral homes. Embalmers working in medical schools and hospitals can join professional associations and teach.
Employment Figures, Projections, Outlook and Earnings for Embalmers
According to research published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), embalmers held approximately 8,190 jobs in May 2009. Most of these jobs were for death care services. Others were for colleges, universities and professional schools.
BLS records for May 2009 indicate that the average annual wage for embalmers was $41,180. The middle 50% earned between $30,860 and $50,720. While the lowest 10% had a yearly salary of $21,830 or less, the highest 10% earned upwards of $60,890 annually.