Funeral Director Intern

FUNERAL DIRECTOR INTERN (Florida)

The Funeral Director Intern is an individual engaged in learning the practice of funeral directing under the instruction and direct supervision of a Florida-licensed Funeral Director. The intern works toward qualifying for licensure as a Funeral Director by completing all internship requirements established by the Florida Board of Funeral, Cemetery, and Consumer Services.

The intern must hold a valid Florida Funeral Director Intern license issued by the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) prior to performing any funeral director-related tasks. All duties are performed under the direct, on-premises supervision of a licensed Florida Funeral Director at all times. The intern may not perform any funeral directing tasks independently and may not represent themselves as a licensed Funeral Director.

Location: Lakeland Funeral Home

Pay: 18.00 per hour

Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of a licensed Florida Funeral Director, the intern will:

• Assist families in making funeral and memorial service arrangements, including selection of caskets, urns, and other merchandise
• Learn to complete and process all required legal documentation, including death certificates, burial permits, and disposition authorizations
• Accompany and observe the Funeral Director during at-need and pre-need arrangement conferences
• Communicate with families in a compassionate and professional manner, addressing questions and concerns under the guidance of the supervising director
• Assist in coordinating and conducting funerals, memorial, graveside, and committal services
• Assist with the transport, transfer, and removal of human remains in compliance with Florida law
• Assist with dressing, casketing, and preparation of the deceased for viewing and services (non-embalming tasks)
• Assist with floral arrangements, set-up of service venues, and coordination of processions
• Operate funeral vehicles, including hearses and family transport vehicles, as needed
• Learn to prepare and maintain all required records in compliance with Chapter 497, Florida Statutes
• Assist with filing death certificates, cremation authorizations, and obtaining necessary permits
• Learn proper procedures for handling cash advance accounts and itemized billing under the FTC Funeral Rule
• Maintain accurate case files and assist with aftercare follow-up with families
• Participate in continuing education, training, and professional development activities
• Assist in maintaining the cleanliness, dignity, and professional appearance of the funeral establishment
• Assist with receiving and inventorying caskets, urns, and other merchandise
• Assist in the maintenance of funeral vehicles and equipment
• Other Duties Assigned

Pathway to Licensure

• Must hold an associate degree or higher in Mortuary Science from a college accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE), OR be currently enrolled and have completed at least 75% of an ABFSE-accredited program (for concurrent intern track)
• Completion of mortuary law/funeral service law coursework preferred
• Must possess — or be eligible for and actively seeking — a valid Florida Funeral Director Intern License issued by the Florida Department of Financial Services
• Must meet all background check and character requirements under §497.142, Florida Statutes
• Compassionate, professional demeanor with the ability to serve grieving families with dignity and respect
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to follow directions precisely and work under close supervision
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks
• Basic computer proficiency for case management and documentation
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of all family and case information
• Knowledge of or willingness to learn Florida funeral service laws and FTC Funeral Rule requirements

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and move up to 75 lbs. with assistance (transfer of human remains)
• Ability to stand, walk, and remain on feet for extended periods during services
• Valid Florida driver's license and clean driving record required
• Must be available for on-call, evening, weekend, and holiday scheduling as required