Funeral directors and embalmers perform some or all of the following duties:

• Consult with the family of the deceased regarding funeral service nature, disposition of remains, and costs
• Arrange for the transfer of remains from the place of death to the funeral home
• Inform survivors of benefits for which they may be eligible and issue death notices
• Oversee the preparation of remains, plan and schedule funeral services, and coordinate burials or cremations
• Discuss and negotiate prearranged funerals with clients
• Manage funeral home operations, including staff direction, financial records, and inventory
• Preserve, sanitize, and prepare human remains for funeral services
• Perform cosmetic and restorative work on human remains to facilitate public visitation
• Supervise funeral home attendants and other support staff during preparation processes

These are the typical employment requirements and benefits associated with this occupation in Canada:

• Funeral directors: Completion of a one- to two-year college program and a 12- to 20-month practical apprenticeship program is usually required
• Embalmers: Completion of a two- to three-year college program and a corresponding practical apprenticeship program is mandatory
• Licensure is required in all provinces for embalmers and in most provinces or territories for funeral directors
• Funeral directors may be required to be licensed embalmers depending on specific provincial regulations
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and emotional resilience skills are essential