Funeral Director

Job Description

Job Description

About the Role:

We are seeking a licensed Funeral Director to provide funeral directing services in Montpelier, VT Guare & Sons Funeral Home Funeral Home. You will be part of an existing team of Funeral Directors in these locations. You will play a vital role in providing compassionate and professional funeral services to families during their time of loss. Your primary objective will be to guide and support families through the planning and execution of funeral arrangements, ensuring that their wishes and cultural traditions are respected. You will coordinate all aspects of funeral services, including transportation, preparation of the deceased, and liaising with cemeteries, crematories, and clergy. This role requires a balance of empathy, organizational skills, and attention to detail to deliver dignified and personalized services. Ultimately, your work will help families find comfort and closure while upholding the highest standards of care and professionalism.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Valid Funeral Director license as required by state regulations, or ability to be fully licensed within 6 months of employment commencement.
• High school diploma or equivalent; completion of a mortuary science program is preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in funeral service or related field.
• Strong knowledge of funeral service laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Mortuary Science or related discipline.
• Experience with grief counseling or bereavement support.
• Familiarity with diverse cultural and religious funeral practices.
• Proficiency in funeral home management software.
• CPR and first aid certification.

Responsibilities:

• Consult with families to understand their needs and preferences for funeral services.
• Arrange and coordinate all logistical aspects of funerals, including transportation, embalming, and service scheduling.
• Prepare and file necessary legal documents such as death certificates and permits.
• Oversee the preparation and presentation of the deceased, ensuring respectful and appropriate care.
• Collaborate with cemeteries, crematories, clergy, and other service providers to facilitate seamless funeral services.
• Manage funeral home facilities and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Provide emotional support and guidance to grieving families throughout the funeral process.
• Maintain accurate records and manage administrative duties related to funeral arrangements.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to remain physically present and engaged for extended periods during services and visitations, which may involve standing, walking, or use of a mobility aid.
• Ability to transport, move, or assist with handling objects weighing up to 50 pounds (e.g., caskets, equipment, floral arrangements), with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Capacity to perform physical movements such as bending, kneeling, reaching, or positioning, as required for funeral service preparation, with or without assistance or adaptive tools.
• Sufficient manual dexterity to handle paperwork, operate standard office and mortuary equipment, and perform related tasks.
• Visual and auditory ability to interact professionally with families, team members, and members of the public, with or without assistive devices.
• Willingness to work in a variety of indoor and outdoor settings, potentially during evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Skills:

The role requires strong interpersonal skills to sensitively communicate with grieving families and provide compassionate support. Organizational skills are essential for managing multiple funeral arrangements simultaneously and ensuring all legal and logistical details are handled accurately. Knowledge of mortuary science and funeral regulations is applied daily to maintain compliance and uphold professional standards. Technical skills, including the use of funeral home management software, facilitate efficient scheduling and record-keeping. Additionally, cultural competence and emotional intelligence enable the Funeral Director to honor diverse traditions and provide meaningful, personalized services.