It’s no secret that the death care industry is booming. It’s one of the few industries expected to grow in the next decade. This has led to an increased demand for funeral directors. But what do they do? And how much do they make?
This article will explore the role and responsibilities of a funeral director and their average salary.
How Much Do Funeral Directors Make?
The median salary for a funeral director is $50,000. However, salaries can range from $30,000 to $100,000, depending on experience and location. Funeral directors in large metropolitan cities, for example, tend to make more than those in rural areas.
How to Become a Funeral Director
Becoming a funeral director requires both education and certification. Most funeral directors have at least an associate’s degree, although some have a bachelor’s degree. You’ll study subjects like psychology, sociology, and business and focus on mortuary science. Once you’ve completed your education, you’ll need to obtain a license from your state.
You’ll also need to be certified by the state where you plan to work. Certification requirements vary by state, but most states require you to pass an exam. Fill out the necessary paperwork and pay the fee.
Role and Responsibilities of a Funeral Director
A funeral director’s primary responsibility is to help families plan funerals. This includes everything from choosing a casket to selecting music for the service. Funeral directors also help families fill out paperwork, such as the death certificate and obituary.
In addition to planning funerals, funeral directors must also prepare the remains. This includes embalming and dressing the body. Funeral directors may also be responsible for transporting the body to the funeral home and cemetery.
Let’s look at the role and responsibilities in more detail.
Plan Funerals
A funeral director’s first and most important responsibility is to help families plan funerals. Funeral directors will often meet with families to discuss their needs and preferences. Then, they develop a plan that meets the family’s budget and needs.
From there, they coordinate with third parties as necessary. For example, they will arrange transportation for the body and flowers for the service.
Prepare the Remains
Once the family has selected a funeral plan, the funeral director will begin preparations. This includes embalming and dressing the body. Embalming is the process of preserving the body. It is often required by law if the body is transported out of state.
Dressing the body involves selecting and putting on clothing. This is usually done in consultation with the family.
Consult with Families of Deceased
The funeral director will consult with the deceased’s family throughout the planning process. They must provide support and guidance during this difficult time. Plus, they’ll help them make decisions during an uncomfortable time.
Fill out Legal Paperwork
In addition to funeral planning, the funeral director is also responsible for paperwork. This includes the death certificate and obituary. The funeral director will usually work with the family to gather the necessary information.
Train Staff
If the funeral home has staff, the funeral director will be responsible for training them. This includes teaching them how to perform tasks like embalming and dressing the body. The funeral director will also train staff on how to interact with families.
Conclusion
Funeral directors play an essential role in our society. They help families during difficult times and ensure that their loved ones are properly cared for. If you’re interested in becoming a funeral director, research the steps necessary to do so in your state or province.
You may also want to shadow someone already working in the death care industry. This will give you a better understanding of what the job entails. With the right education and certification, you can start a rewarding career helping others during their time of need.