What are the responsibilities and job description for the Funeral Apprentice position at Milestone Funeral Partner?
Milestone Funeral Partners is seeking a compassionate, service-driven Funeral Director Apprentice to join our growing team in Elmira, NY. This entry-level opportunity is designed for recent mortuary science graduates and apprentices who are ready to build their careers through meaningful, hands-on experience with one of the Northeast’s leading funeral service organizations.
This full-time opportunity supports operations across two locations: James D. Barrett Funeral Home and McInerny Funeral Home.
Why Join Milestone?
When you join Milestone, you're becoming part of a team that is deeply connected to the communities we serve. Every day, your work helps families navigate some of life's most difficult moments with compassion, dignity, and exceptional care. We value your expertise, invest in your growth, and help you build a career with purpose.
About the Role
As a Funeral Director Apprentice, you will work under the guidance of experienced funeral professionals to gain valuable experience across every aspect of the profession. From meeting with families and coordinating arrangements to assisting during visitations, funerals, memorials, and daily funeral home operations, you'll develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to build a successful career as a licensed Funeral Director.
Evening, weekend, holiday, and on-call availability is required.
What You'll Do
- Support licensed funeral directors in coordinating and conducting funeral and memorial services with professionalism, care, and attention to detail
- Assist families throughout the arrangement process by providing compassionate customer service and guidance
- Assist with respectful care and preparation of the deceased, including identification verification, dressing, cosmetology, and preparation of cremated remains
- Prepare and complete required documentation, contracts, permits, and online records accurately and in compliance with applicable regulations
- Assist with funeral service logistics, including vehicle operation, parking coordination, ushering, setup and breakdown, cemetery services, and transportation of flowers, keepsakes, and personal items
- Support cremation and burial arrangements while ensuring all authorizations and required documentation are completed
- Maintain compliance with all applicable professional, state, and federal licensing requirements
What You’ll Bring
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Currently enrolled in or recently completed a mortuary science program from an accredited institution, as required by applicable state licensing requirements
- Valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record
- Ability to meet applicable state licensing requirements for funeral service
- Previous experience in a funeral home, cemetery, crematory, or related environment preferred
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to interact compassionately with families during difficult times
Benefits & Perks
Our employees enjoy a competitive compensation package, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off and holidays, retirement savings plan (401k), access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and more.
About Our Team
At Milestone Funeral Partners, our employees are our greatest investment. Across every location, our leaders are committed to creating an environment where staff feel supported, trusted, and empowered to grow. We provide the tools, training, and opportunities needed to build rewarding careers while nurturing a culture of collaboration, respect, and continuous learning.
Salary : $45,000 - $55,000