Crematory Operators
A subset of this occupation's profile is available. Data collection is currently underway to populate other parts of the profile.
Operate crematory equipment to reduce human or animal remains to bone fragments in accordance with state and local regulations. Duties may include preparing the body for cremation and performing general maintenance on crematory equipment. May use traditional flame-based cremation, calcination, or alkaline hydrolysis.
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Tasks
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Clean the crematorium, including tables, floors, and equipment.
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Document divided remains to ensure parts are not misplaced.
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Embalm, dress, or otherwise prepare the deceased for viewing.
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Explain the cremation process to family or friends of the deceased.
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Offer counsel and comfort to bereaved families or friends.
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Pick up and handle human or pet remains in a respectful manner.
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Place corpses into crematory machines to reduce remains to bone fragments using flame, heat, or alkaline hydrolysis.
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Pulverize remaining bone fragments into smaller pieces, using specialized equipment, such as a cremulator or grinder.
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Read documentation to confirm the identity of the deceased.
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Remove jewelry, watches, or other personal items from the deceased prior to cremation.
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Sweep or vacuum the cremation chamber to retrieve remains for storage in an urn or other container.
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Transport the deceased to a funeral home or crematory using a van, hearse, or other vehicle.
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Technology Skills
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Data base user interface and query software — Belmar & Associates Mortware; HMIS Advantage
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Office suite software — Microsoft Office software
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Spreadsheet software — Microsoft Excel
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Word processing software — Microsoft Word
Hot Technologies are requirements most frequently included across all employer job postings.
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Detailed Work Activities
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Adjust temperature controls of ovens or other heating equipment.
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Apply cleansing or conditioning agents to client hair, scalp, or skin.
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Apply makeup to alter or enhance appearance.
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Clean facilities or equipment.
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Clean facilities or work areas.
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Discuss goods or services information with customers or patrons.
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Drive vehicles to transport individuals or equipment.
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Explain use of products or services.
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Load materials into equipment for processing.
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Maintain records, documents, or other files.
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Operate grinding equipment.
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Provide counsel, comfort, or encouragement to individuals or families.
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Transport biological or other medical materials.
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Verify information or specifications.
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Job Zone
- Title
- Job Zone Two: Some Preparation Needed
- Education
- These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
- Related Experience
- Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
- Job Training
- Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
- Job Zone Examples
- These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include orderlies, counter and rental clerks, customer service representatives, security guards, upholsterers, tellers, and dental laboratory technicians.
- SVP Range
- (4.0 to < 6.0)
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Training & Credentials
- State training
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- Local training
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- Certifications
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- State licenses
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Apprenticeship Opportunities
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Interests
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Realistic — Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional — Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
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Wages & Employment Trends
- Median wages (2023)
- $20.03 hourly, $41,670 annual
- State wages
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- Local wages
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- Employment (2023)
- 3,200 employees
- Projected growth (2023-2033)
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Average (3% to 5%)
- Projected job openings (2023-2033)
- 500
- State trends
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- Top industries (2023)
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Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2023 wage data
external site and 2023-2033 employment projections
external site.
“Projected growth” represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2023-2033). “Projected job openings” represent openings due to growth and replacement.
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Job Openings on the Web
- State job openings
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- Local job openings
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Professional Associations
Disclaimer:
Sources are listed to provide additional information on related jobs, specialties, and/or industries.
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National Associations
Accreditation, Certification, & Unions
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