Crematorium assistant

What does a crematorium assistant do? – tasks and work environment

Crematorium assistants mainly work with managing the cremation process at crematoria, often within the framework of funeral services. Typical tasks include receiving coffins, preparing for cremation, monitoring ovens and processes, and handling ashes according to applicable laws and ethical guidelines. The work takes place in a calm, respectful environment where accuracy and integrity are crucial, and there is often physical work and contact with relatives. Crematorium assistants work closely with other staff in cemetery and funeral services and may work day and evening shifts depending on the schedule.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary development for crematorium assistants has been positive. In 2022, the average salary was 31,500 SEK per month, which increased to 33 800 SEK in 2023 – an increase of about 7.3%. Between 2023 and 2024, salaries continued to rise to 35 000 SEK, corresponding to an increase of approximately 3.6%. The total increase over the three-year period amounts to nearly 11.1%. The salary growth likely reflects the increased demand for qualified personnel in funeral and cremation services, as well as general sector wage adjustments. Differences between the highest and lowest salaries have been relatively small, indicating a uniform salary structure within the profession.

Crematorium assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (female with unspecified education)
• Highest salary: 36,400 SEK/month (female, private employee, 3-year secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 210 SEK
• Men's average salary: 35,600 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 34,600 SEK/month
• Women earn: 97% of what men do
• Regional differences: Small differences between larger and smaller towns, but higher salaries occur in big cities

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a crematorium assistant usually involves secondary education, often with a focus on healthcare, service, or technology. Many employers require specific internal training or courses in crematorium techniques, ethics, and safety. Practical experience from related professions in funeral services can be advantageous, and personal suitability is highly valued.

• Secondary education: 3-year program in areas such as healthcare, service, or technology
• Internal courses: Training in crematorium techniques and ethics often offered by employers
• Internship: Practical introduction and supervision at the workplace are common
• Prerequisites: Attention to detail, sense of responsibility, and good physical health
• Tips for choosing: Interest in service, ethics, and working in sensitive situations is an advantage

Common benefits and compensations

Crematorium assistants often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, and extra vacation days. Employers sometimes also provide work clothing, training, and subsidized meals. In some cases, overtime pay applies for work during inconvenient hours, and support services like counseling or supervision are available if needed.

Competition and challenges

The number of positions for crematorium assistants is limited, and competition can vary depending on the region and population base. Since the profession often requires both technical and emotional skills, finding suitable candidates can be challenging. The limited number of training places and the specialized work environment contribute to the relatively small size of the profession. At the same time, demand remains stable because cremation services are a societal necessity, but mobility within the profession is low as many stay in their roles for a long time.

Tips for those who want to become a crematorium assistant

To succeed as a crematorium assistant, it is good to combine technical interest with empathy and precision. Early internships or summer jobs in funeral services provide valuable insight and experience, especially if you have a respectful approach to difficult situations. Strong nerves and the ability to work independently under responsibility are important qualities, as well as being attentive to the needs of relatives. It is also wise to show interest in the workplace routines and be prepared for physically and psychologically demanding tasks. Further training through employer-provided courses also offers better opportunities for development within the profession.

Key facts about Crematorium Assistant

• Education level: Secondary education (3 years), often supplemented with internal training
• Work environment: Crematorium, often indoors and in small teams
• Employment type: Permanent or hourly employment, sometimes weekend and evening work
• Demand: Stable with 237 available jobs within the profession (2024)
• Special skills: Crematorium techniques, ethics, and handling sensitive situations

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a crematorium assistant, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as foreman within cremation services or responsible for training new employees. Some choose to further their education and move into administrative roles in funeral services or cemetery management. According to the Employment Service, no specific assessment of future prospects for crematorium assistants is made due to limited data, but demand remains stable with a total of 237 available jobs. The job market outlook is generally stable, especially in larger cities where the need for qualified personnel is greatest.

Common questions about Crematorium Assistant

• What does a crematorium assistant earn?
  - A crematorium assistant has an average salary of 35 000 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and employer.
• How do you become a crematorium assistant?
  - The typical route is secondary education, preferably with a focus on service or technology, followed by internal training at the workplace.
• 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 men's salaries.
• What are the job duties of a crematorium assistant?
  - Tasks include handling the cremation process, monitoring ovens, receiving coffins, and communicating with relatives.
• What is the job market like for crematorium assistants?
  - There is stable demand with 237 available jobs within the profession according to the latest data.
• What education is required?
  - Secondary education, often combined with workplace-based internal training in crematorium techniques and ethics.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, empathy, responsibility, and the ability to work independently are key qualities.