Overall employment of funeral service workers is projected to grow 5 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Employment of morticians, undertakers, and funeral directors is projected to grow 7 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Demand for funeral service workers will stem from deaths in the aging population.
These workers increasingly are performing day-to-day routine tasks, including many administrative duties, such as filling out paperwork and securing death certificates. In addition, as a growing number of baby boomers prearrange their end-of-life services, these workers, through their services, will offer people a stress-free understanding that their final wishes will be met.
Employment of funeral service managers is projected to grow 3 percent from 2014 to 2024, slower than the average for all occupations. Despite growth of the death care industry, fewer managers will be needed as morticians, undertakers, and funeral directors increasingly handle the day-to-day activities at a funeral home.
Job Prospects
Job prospects for funeral service workers are expected to be good overall. Opportunities should be particularly favorable for those who are licensed as both a funeral director and an embalmer, for those willing to relocate, and for certified crematory operators.
Some job openings should result from the need to replace workers who retire or leave the occupation each year.
Funeral Service Workers
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Morticians, undertakers, and funeral directors
7%
Total, all occupations
7%
Funeral service workers
5%
Funeral service managers
3%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program