Crematorium technician
Make sure cremations go smoothly so that bereaved families can say goodbye to their loved ones.
About the job
What it's like
You would make sure that cremations go smoothly so that bereaved families can say goodbye to their loved ones and mourn their loss.
You’d do the practical tasks involved in cremations. You’d meet the families and sensitively guide them through the arrangements.
You would:
Clean and prepare the chapel before the funeral
Make sure the cremation equipment works safely
Receive coffins and check identities
Meet mourners as they arrive and escort them into the chapel
Operate the cremation equipment
Store the remains and follow the family’s wishes regarding what to do with the ashes
You’d be responsible for keeping accurate records. You’d ensure that the crematorium operates according to the legislation and regulations.
You’d make sure all the areas in and around the crematorium are clean and well maintained. You’d also guide visitors to memorials in the crematorium grounds.
Hours
You will usually work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, but services sometimes also take place on Saturdays.
Environment
You will spend most of your time indoors, but may also help with grounds maintenance or supervise cemetery workers, which will mean being out in all weather conditions.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Other careers that you might like
Cemetery worker Funeral director
Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- cremation
- manual handling
- funeral services
- bereavement care
- talent recruitment
- employee onboarding
- gardening
- accounts payable
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- time management
- taking initiative
- attention to detail
- respecting
- empathising
- verbal communication
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Human Biology
Practical Craft Skills
Science
There are no formal qualifications required to get into this role but some employers may ask for qualifications at SCQF level 4/5. Training is mainly on the job.
The Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) offers intermediate and advanced level Crematorium Technicians Training Scheme (SCQF level 5/6).
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Crematorium technician'
