Skills
Embalmer Skills & Tools
The technical skills, people skills and tools employers look for in embalmers, and how to build and show them.
What skills do embalmers need?
Embalmers need technical skills such as embalming techniques, anatomy, and restorative art, plus people skills like respect and dignity and attention to detail. They also use tools such as Embalming machines and Instruments.
Technical (hard) skills
- Embalming techniques
- Anatomy
- Restorative art
- Cosmetology for the deceased
- Chemical safety
- Documentation
People (soft) skills
- Respect and dignity
- Attention to detail
- Composure
- Artistry
Tools, equipment and technology
- Embalming machines
- Instruments
- Embalming chemicals
- PPE and ventilation
- Cosmetics
- Restorative wax
Skills in action: common tasks
These step-by-step guides show how embalmers put their skills to work:
How to show these skills on a resume
- Lead your skills section with the technical skills from the job posting, for example, “Embalming techniques” and “Anatomy.”
- Prove soft skills with results: instead of listing “respect and dignity,” describe a situation where you used it.
- List credentials such as State embalmer license near the top, with the issuing organization and date.
- Use the employer’s vocabulary. Our embalmer glossary covers the terms hiring managers expect.
How to build these skills
Formal training, supervised practice and certification are the most direct routes. Our Embalmer training introduces each of these skills with plain-language lessons, procedures and a final knowledge check: a strong foundation before hands-on training or your first day.