Funeral counselor

What does a funeral advisor do? – Tasks and work environment

A funeral advisor is responsible for supporting and guiding relatives in planning and executing funerals. The role includes meetings with grieving parties, drafting agreements, coordinating ceremonies, liaising with authorities and churches, as well as logistics related to transportation and burial. The work requires good organizational skills and an empathetic approach. The work environment varies between offices, meeting rooms, and church facilities, often characterized by a calm pace but high emotional demands. Discretion and respect are crucial qualities, and working hours may sometimes include evenings and weekends depending on client needs.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for funeral advisors has shown a steady increase. In 2022, the average salary was 31,500 SEK, rising the following year to 33 800 SEK, and finally to 35 000 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to an overall increase of approximately 11% over three years, which is higher than the general salary growth among similar professions. The reasons can be attributed to increased demand for qualified personnel and a growing need for professional advice at the end of life. The industry’s increased complexity, including more administrative requirements and greater variation in customer wishes, has also contributed to higher skill requirements – reflected in salary levels.

Funeral advisor salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 36,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 210 SEK
• Women: 34,600 SEK/month
• Men: 35,600 SEK/month
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 97% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a funeral advisor, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably with a focus on administration, service, or social work. Many employers offer internal training and industry-specific courses, and experience from service professions or working with vulnerable people is advantageous. Internships or trainee positions are common as part of the introduction to the profession.

• Educational level: High school diploma (3 years), preferably from programs with a focus on service or healthcare
• Industry training: Courses via the Swedish Funeral Directors’ Association or similar organizations
• Internship: Common during the introduction period
• Certification: Possibility to obtain certification after completing training and internship
• Prerequisites: Experience in customer service, administration, or social work is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Funeral advisors are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, health insurance, and wellness allowances. Flexitime and extra vacation days may be available, as well as compensation for unsociable hours worked in evenings and on weekends. Some employers also provide training support and professional development within the field.

Competition and challenges

The profession of funeral advisor is characterized by low competition, but many challenges require specialized skills. As it involves sensitive matters with high demands on ethics and conduct, it is important to handle stress and emotionally charged situations. The number of available positions in the funeral and crematory sector recently reached 237, indicating stable demand. However, the lack of clear career paths and opportunities for specialization may lead some to seek other roles after a few years. Education and experience are important factors in obtaining the most attractive positions.

Tips for those who want to become a funeral advisor

To succeed as a funeral advisor, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in helping people through difficult times and to approach grieving individuals with empathy and respect. Attention to detail is important, as the work often involves many details and ensuring agreements are properly followed. Being resilient under pressure is crucial, especially when coordinating multiple funerals simultaneously. Good communication skills and attentiveness facilitate collaboration with both relatives and colleagues, while discretion and integrity are fundamental for building trust. Finally, flexibility and openness to working outside regular hours are advantageous, as client needs can vary.

Key facts about Funeral Advisors

• Educational level: High school diploma, often supplemented with industry training
• Work environment: Varies between office, church, and client meetings
• Demand: 237 job openings in the funeral and crematory sector
• Gender distribution: Even, with small salary differences
• Special skills: Empathetic approach and administrative ability

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a funeral advisor, opportunities may open to advance to supervisory roles such as team leader, branch manager, or training coordinator within a funeral home. Specializations in legal advice, ceremonial planning, or customer relations are also common. According to the latest forecasts from the Swedish Employment Agency, specific assessments for the profession are lacking, but the stable demand and increasing number of job openings indicate good future prospects. The industry’s development is influenced by demographic changes and an increased focus on personalized ceremonies, which may lead to new tasks and further training opportunities.

Common questions about Funeral Advisors

• What is the average salary of a Funeral Advisor?
  - The average salary is 35 000 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 34,600 SEK and men 35,600 SEK, which means women earn 97% of what men do.
• What education is required to become a funeral advisor?
  - A high school diploma is most common, preferably with a focus on service or social work, along with industry-specific training and internships.
• What are the future prospects for funeral advisors?
  - There are no exact forecasts, but demand is stable and there are around 237 job openings in the profession.
• What does the work as a funeral advisor involve?
  - Supporting and guiding relatives through the entire funeral process, from planning to execution.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Empathy, attention to detail, stress resilience, and communication skills are essential.
• Are there opportunities for further education and career development?
  - Yes, opportunities to move into supervisory roles or specialize in areas such as legal advice or ceremonial planning exist.