How Much Money Does a Licensed Embalmer Make?
Embalmers are essential to preparing a deceased person's body for viewing by friends and family members. The embalmer uses his knowledge of human anatomy and his skill with restorative art to make an individual presentable for a funeral service. Embalmers acquire licensing by completing a mortuary science program, participating in an apprenticeship and completing an examination, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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National Average
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The national average earnings for embalmers was $44,280 annually, $21.29 per hour, in 2010, according to the BLS. Earners in the lowest salary range earned approximately $26,630 annually while the highest paid earners made $63,030. Embalmers in the middle range earned between $34,290 and $53,330 per year.
Salary by Region
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Embalmers employed in the West, Midwest and Northeastern portions of the country earned higher salary ranges. Those employed in the West earned between $40,110 and $58,050 annually, according to data collected by the BLS. Embalmers in the Midwest earned between $32,370 and $58,050. Those employed in the Northeastern portion of the country earned $44,930 and $58,050. Embalmers in the Southern states earned wages between $32,370 and $39,620 annually.
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Highest Earnings
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The highest paying positions were in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa and Maryland. Salaries ranged between $50,620 annually in Maryland and $58,050 in Massachusetts. The metropolitan areas of San Jose, California; Boston, Massachusetts; and Chicago, Illinois, reported some of the highest wages with salaries ranging from $55,020 to $63,880.
Advancement
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Embalmers can advance to positions as funeral directors and funeral establishment management. Funeral directors typically maintain their embalming license and perform embalming duties when required. But they also arrange for burial at cemeteries, complete family consultations and manage the care of the deceased. Funeral directors may advance further to branch management with funeral service companies, according to the BLS. Funeral directors earned an average $52,210 annually in 2008.
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