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Embalmer
Salary/Compensation
In the Philippines an Embalmers entry level salary ranges from
P9,000 - P12,000 per month and may even go up to P15,000 per
month for those highly trained and experienced. Embalmers also
get higher pay in big mortuaries or funeral parlors. In the U.S. &
Canada, the annual average salary for an Embalmer is $41,526 or
$3,460 per month.

Basic Educational Requirement

To be an Embalmer, one must be at least a high school graduate,
have undergone a year of studying & training and have received
certification in basic Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology &
Parasitology, Sanitation and Hygiene, Ethics and Jurisprudence. A
licensure exam is given by the Department of Health (DOH) before
one can practice the embalming profession.

Cost of Education *
The first formal embalming and mortuary training school in the Asia
Pacific is the Pacific Center for Advance Studies (PCAS) found at
Nivel Hills, Barangay Lahug, Cebu City. The training cost for an
embalmer approximately ranges from P10,000 - P20,000 in private
mortuary training schools and about P8,000 to P12,000 in public
institutions.

Employment Opportunities
Embalmers can be employed by large funeral directing organizations (funeral parlors) hospitals, or embalming
companies. They can also be self-employed, working for several funeral parlors salary. According to Ms. Sarah
Dychangco, President of Pacific Center for Advanced Studies (PCAS), A lot of embalmers abroad are nearing age
retirement and so the demand is so huge. Now, you see caregivers wanting to become embalmers because of
the hefty salary.
Embalmers may be employed in the following industries: Health and Social Work, and Other Community, Social
and Personal Service Activities.

Prospects for Career Advancement

Career advancement is dependent on pursuing further studies or training along his area of specialization.
Embalmers can be supervisors working with disaster teams after gaining considerable working experience.

Nature of Work
An Embalmer preserves bodies from the time of death until they can be buried or cremated.

Tasks
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Washes and disinfectsbodies to prevent deterioration and infection;

Removes fluids and gases from the body and replaces them with injected preservatives;
Washes and arranges hair and applies cosmetics; and
Uses plaster of Paris or wax to restore the appearance of bodies after injury.

Skills and Competencies

Ability to pay close attention to detail; and
Ability to handle tools and surgical instruments.

Physical Attributes and Characteristics

Sensitivity to other peoples feelings;
Physically fit;
Interest in science particularly chemistry and anatomy;
Serious and dignified in manner; and
Must have respect for different religious beliefs.

* Based on tuition fee rates for school year 2010-2011.

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