Crematory operators
SOC Code: 39-4012Also known as:
Cremation Arranger, Cremator, Crematory Operator, Pet Crematory Operator
Median Annual Salary
$42,880
+3.3% growth (2024-2034)
600
Openings/Year
3K
Current Jobs
What Crematory operators Do
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.
💰 Salary
$42,880
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+3.3%
As fast as average
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
600
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Short-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
3,100
Projected Employment (2034)
3,200
Related Careers
Funeral home managers
$76,830 •
+4.1% growth
Funeral attendants
$34,610 •
+3.1% growth
Morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers
$49,800 •
+3.1% growth
Laborers and freight, stock, and material movers, hand
$38,940 •
+1.5% growth
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
Degree Programs for Crematory operators
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a crematory operators:
Mortuary Science and Embalming/Embalmer
64 degrees awarded •
5 colleges offer this program
Funeral Service and Mortuary Science, Other
28 degrees awarded •
2 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Crematory operators
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become crematory operators.
| # | College | Location | Related Degrees | Repit Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of the District of Columbia | Washington, DC | 5 | C+ |
| 2 | North Central State College | Mansfield, OH | 1 | C+ |
| 3 | Piedmont Technical College | Greenwood, SC | 29 | C |
| 4 | City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College | Chicago, IL | 14 | C |
| 5 | Carl Sandburg College | Galesburg, IL | 14 | C |
| 6 | Wayne County Community College District | Detroit, MI | 2 | C |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do crematory operators make?
The median annual salary for crematory operators is $42,880.
What education do crematory operators need?
Most crematory operators positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Common degree programs include Mortuary Science and Embalming/Embalmer, Funeral Service and Mortuary Science, Other.
Is becoming crematory operators a good career choice?
Crematory operators is projected to see +3.3% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 600 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for crematory operators?
Top colleges for aspiring crematory operators include
University of the District of Columbia, North Central State College, Piedmont Technical College, City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College, Carl Sandburg College.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to crematory operators?
Crematory operators may also be known as: Cremation Arranger, Cremator, Crematory Operator, Pet Crematory Operator.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.