Funeral Assistant

Description

Job title: Funeral Assistant

Work Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico

Division/Department: Rivera Santa Fe

Reports to: Paul Vigil

Part Time

Nonexempt

Salary Range: $15-17 /hour – DOE

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Position Overview: A Funeral Assistant provides crucial support in the preparation and organization of funerals, ensuring that all arrangements are carried out with dignity and respect. This role involves assisting funeral directors, families, and other team members in various tasks related to funeral services, such as logistics, documentation, and maintaining a compassionate, professional environment. 

Funeral Service Support:

• Assist in preparing and transporting deceased individuals to the funeral home.
• Help in setting up funeral services, including arranging flowers, seating, and displays.
• Provide support during funeral ceremonies and services, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
• Handle and deliver necessary paperwork, including death certificates and burial permits.
• Help with the closing and cleanup of funeral services, including the packing of personal items or flowers.
• Support families with the collection of personal belongings after services.

Client Interaction:

• Greet and guide family members and guests during visitation hours and services.
• Respond to requests from families in a timely, professional and compassionate manner.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards while interacting with grieving families.

Administrative Tasks:

• Assist with completing and filing necessary documentation, including legal and regulatory paperwork.
• Maintain accurate records of services provided, such as payments and arrangements.
• Coordinate with suppliers, such as florist, casket vendors, and transportation services.

Vehicle and Equipment Management:

• Drive or accompany transportation vehicles (hearse, funeral cars) to ensure the timely arrival and departure of services.
• Maintain and clean funeral vehicles and equipment to ensure readiness for services.
• Help load and unload the deceased and ensure proper handling during transport.

General Facility Maintenance:

•  Keep Funeral home facilities clean, organized, and presentable for visitors.
• Assist in the maintenance of inventory for funeral supplies and equipment.

Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; some experience in funeral services is preferred.
• Ability to work compassionately and professionally with families during emotional times.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record, and ability to handle funeral vehicles in a safe and professional manner.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Discretion and respect for the confidentiality of families and their arrangements.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry heavy objects, such as caskets, urns, and other funeral related equipment.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. regularly and occasionally more during transport and service preparation
• Must be able to stand or walk for extended periods during funeral services, visitation hours, or while assisting with arrangements.
• Will often be required to move around the funeral home or other venues, such as churches or cemeteries, and may need to traverse stairs or uneven ground.
• Frequent bending, stooping, and kneeling are required for tasks such as setting up services, and assisting with body transport. Comfort with getting into low or awkward positions is essential for certain duties.
• Ability to use hands for fine motor tasks, such as filling out paperwork, adjusting arrangements, and handling delicate items like photographs or personal belongings.
• Must be able to talk, listen and speak clearly on telephone