Embalmer

Level

Higher

Length

3 yrs

typical

Sector

Health and science

Pay

Paid

you earn while training

In a nutshell

To preserve, sanitise and present a deceased person, ensuring confidentiality, minimising risks to public heath and assisting the bereaved by contributing to a healthy grieving process.

What you'd do

Conduct a pre-embalming assessment and review case notes

Perform arterial embalming through the circulatory system

Treat body cavities to prevent decomposition and odour

Apply restorative techniques to repair trauma or reconstruct features

Dress, cosmetise, and present the deceased for family viewing

Maintain a clean, hygienic, and legally compliant preparation room

Complete embalming records, consent forms, and case documentation

What you'd learn

Human anatomy, physiology, and the changes that occur after death

Embalming chemistry, arterial fluids, and cavity fluids

Arterial and cavity embalming techniques and injection methods

Restorative art: reconstruction and cosmetic preparation of the deceased

Infection control, personal protective equipment, and mortuary health and safety

Legislation governing the care and transportation of human remains

Communicating sensitively with bereaved families about preparation choices

Ready to look for a place?

See live Embalmer apprenticeship vacancies on the official government service.

Find vacancies

A Careermash concept · apprenticeship standard from our careers engine · vacancies via gov.uk.