How much does a crematory operator make?

In the U.S., experienced operators and people with training or certifications employers value may earn more. Pay also varies by employer and location, and hours or shifts can matter because some funeral-service jobs involve on-call evenings and weekends.

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.

What's a typical day like?

They check paperwork and identity tags, prepare and run cremation equipment, then process the remains and place them in a container. They clean the room and equipment and carefully record each step.

Most U.S. operators need a high school diploma or GED, then learn the job and the particular machine through employer training. Rules vary by state: some require an approved operator course or registration, so check the state board's rules.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.

California crematory operator Lawrence Moore invented the first electric cremator and started using a unique metal disc to identify cremated remains.