Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers
O*NET 39-4031.00 · SOC 39-4031
Mortician is a solid career choice. Median pay is $55k a year with +3% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 3,000 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Meet with families to plan funeral service details.
- →Complete and file death certificates with local authorities.
- →Coordinate with cemeteries or crematoriums for final disposition.
- →Explain funeral package costs and payment options to families.
- →Arrange transportation of remains to service or burial sites.
Education & How to Get In
Most Mortician positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
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Work Environment
Structured, offices, data centers, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Mortician involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Mortician?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Mortician Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers is projected to grow 3% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·40% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Mortician make?
The median Mortician earns $55k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Mortician jobs?
Our model puts Mortician at 27 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 40% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace; industry sector with low automation exposure.
Is Mortician a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 3% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 3,000 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Mortician?
Most Mortician roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Mortician?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Mortician career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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