Embalmer Apprentice

Northstar-Memorial-Group; San Mateo (CA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Disability Coverage

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

401(k) Retirement Savings Plan

Job summary

Skylawn Funeral Home in Half Moon Bay, CA is seeking an Embalmer Apprentice to join our compassionate team. You will learn the art and science of embalming while serving families with dignity, under supervision of licensed professionals.

This role provides hands-on experience in caring for the deceased, including embalming, removals and transfers, cosmetology, dressing, hairstyling, and other preparation duties.

Qualifications

• Recently completed or currently enrolled in an accredited mortuary program.
• Maintains a team player mindset.
• Comfortable using various computer applications and equipment.
• Experience handling sensitive situations professionally.
• Understanding of the services and products available.
• Knowledge of current federal, state, and local regulations related to the funeral industry.

Responsibilities

• Perform embalming, disinfecting, dressing, preparing, and casketing of the deceased under supervision.
• Maintain a sterile and safe work environment per regulations.
• Communicate pertinent decedent information to the funeral team.
• Complete and enforce all log-in, identification, and casketing procedures.
• Show reverence and respect for the deceased.
• Prepare accurate documents related to services provided.
• Engage in personal development and training opportunities.

Skills

Team player mindset

Computer applications

Handling sensitive situations

Funeral industry regulations

Knowledge of services and products

Education

Mortuary program (accredited)

Job description

Skylawn Funeral Home is looking for an Embalmer Apprentice to join our team in Half Moon Bay, CA where we offer a passionate and purpose-filled work environment. The Embalmer Apprentice is an aspiring funeral service professional who is passionate about learning the art and science of embalming while serving families with compassion and respect. Working under the guidance of licensed professionals, this role develops the technical skills, industry knowledge, and attention to detail necessary to provide exceptional care for the deceased. This position will be responsible for caring for the deceased in a respectful manner while performing a variety of tasks including, embalming, removals and transfers, cosmetology, dressing, hairstyling, and any other preparation required for the deceased and collaborating with the entire funeral home team on delivering service excellence. The ideal candidate is committed to continuous learning, upholding the highest standards of professionalism, and building a rewarding career dedicated to supporting families during their time of need.

Responsibilities

• Perform embalming, disinfecting, dressing, preparing, and casketing of the deceased using appropriate precautions and OSHA standards in a manner that honors the deceased, under the guidance of a Funeral Director or Licensed Embalmer.
• Maintains a sterile and safe work environment consistent with company, government, and industry rules and regulations
• Communicate to the funeral team, in a timely and effective manner, all pertinent information regarding decedent condition
• Complete and enforce all log-in, identification, and casketing procedures
• Always maintain reverence and respect for the deceased
• Preparing complete and accurate documents related to services provided
• Commit to personal development and growth by participating in personal training opportunities

Qualifications

• Recently completed or currently enrolled in an accredited mortuary program
• Maintaining a team player mindset
• Comfortable using various computer applications and equipment
• Experience handling sensitive situations in a professional manner
• Understanding of the services and products available
• Knowledge of current federal, state, and local regulations related to the funeral industry

Compensation $26 - $28/hr.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Disability Coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan

Skylawn Funeral Home has been a trusted source of care and support for Bay Area families since 1957. Known for its commitment to compassionate service and personalized memorial experiences, our team helps families honor loved ones in meaningful ways while providing comfort, guidance, and peace of mind during life's most important moments. With a deep dedication to dignity, respect, and excellence, we take pride in serving a diverse community and helping families create lasting tributes that celebrate life and legacy. Joining our location means becoming part of a respected tradition of service and a team committed to making a meaningful difference every day.

Skylawn is part of the NorthStar Memorial Group family of properties. Voted one of 2026’s USA Today Top Workplaces, NorthStar Memorial Group is a privately held company that offers opportunities for growth with a broad network of support, while keeping the intimacy and personal impact you have at an independently owned property.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.