Plans and co-ordinates arrangements for funerals according to the wishes of the deceased or their relatives.

Interviews families and associates of deceased to assist with funeral arrangements such as selection of coffin, type of service and publication of death notices; advise on funeral costs and welfare provisions; collects bodies from mortuaries; ensures death certificates have been issued, burial and cremation certificates processed and that other legal requirements are met; prepares bodies for viewing and burial by washing, draining body fluids, applying padding and cosmetics, dressing bodies and placing them in coffins; liaise with clergy and cemetery and crematorium staff; coordinates movement of coffins and funeral cars, arranges floral displays and collects attendance and tribute cards; arranges placement of coffins at funeral sites, and placing and adjusting of floral displays and lighting; keeps records and accounts of transactions and services performed; may arrange construction of memorials and the disposal of ashes.

• Employees work predominantly indoors, but also work outdoors in all weather conditions. Work spaces are generally adequately heated and ventilated, clean and well maintained.
• Activities are closely associated with significant grief, sadness, death and preparing bodies for viewing, burial or cremation.

• Sedentary to heavy physical demand levels. Heavy lifting, pulling or carrying is necessary when transporting coffins and transferring bodies, however lifting equipment and adjustable trolleys are utilised.
• Employees frequently walk or stand and sit as part of their daily activities.
• Stretching and reaching will be required for embalming. Twisting of the body or neck is not a significant component of the job. Employees frequently bend when lifting caskets.
• There may be some contact with skin irritants or water through the cleaning and embalming processes of bodies. Repetitive movements are likely to be required in embalming processes and when documenting funeral processes.
• Driving is likely to be occasionally required, when transporting bodies and caskets in hearses and visiting clients.
• Hand tools are likely to be required for embalming and mortician tasks.
• Mental skills necessary include communication and organisational skills. Attention to detail and sensitivity to others is also required.

A New Zealand Register Level 5 or 6 qualification or at least three years relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 2). In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.