A mortuary attendant prepares bodies for examination, assists with autopsies, keeps records, and prepares chemicals. Requirements vary, but generally include a high school diploma and knowledge of autopsy and embalming procedures. Comfort with the deceased and the ability to deal with unpleasant odors and sounds are important. Education requirements depend on the jurisdiction, but a high school diploma or substitute is generally required. An associate’s degree in mortuary or pathology assistant programs can be helpful. Computer skills, data collection, measuring and weighing skills, and a driver’s license may also be required.
A mortuary attendant assists a pathologist by preparing bodies for examination, assisting with autopsies, keeping records, and preparing chemicals used in preservation. Requirements for this job vary, but generally include a high school diploma and knowledge of autopsy and embalming procedures. Some jobs may require you to study mortuary science or a major college as well. Even when completing a degree program is not a requirement, completing a program can help you compete for a job. In addition, you will likely need computer skills and a driver’s license to become a morgue attendant.
One of the most important qualifications for becoming a mortuary attendant is being reasonably comfortable in the presence of the deceased. If you’re likely to be scared or overwhelmed in a room with dead people, this might not be the best career option for you. Likewise, you may be suitable for this job if you can visualize blood, internal organs, and wounds without becoming sensitive. In addition, you will most likely need the ability to calmly deal with sounds and odors that may be perceived as unpleasant.
Education requirements to become a mortuary attendant may depend on the jurisdiction in which you are looking for a job. As such, your first step in this process may be to research the criteria for the jurisdiction in which you plan to work. That way, you can ensure that you don’t overlook preparation requirements and have a hard time qualifying for a job when you’re ready.
A high school diploma is often required to become a morgue attendant, but a jurisdiction-accepted substitute is also generally considered suitable. Because aspiring teachers sometimes spend a significant amount of time studying science-related topics, trying rigorous high school courses in the sciences can help prepare you for higher education. The math and health courses you take in high school can also provide you with useful foundational knowledge as you work your way through higher education and eventually a job as a morgue attendant.
Depending on the jurisdiction and possible employer preferences, you may also need to apply to an associate’s degree program to become a mortuary attendant. For example, you might enroll in a mortuary or pathology assistant program that provides you with the knowledge you need to qualify and excel in this job. By studying in one of these or a related field, you are likely to gain important knowledge of anatomy, medical terminology, autopsy procedures, and biological terminology. You can also study embalming and learn about burial practices in your type of program.
You may also need skills in several areas to become a morgue attendant. For example, you will likely need computer skills and be able to collect and compile data. Measuring and weighing skills are also important, and you may also need to understand forensic photography. Also, some jobs require you to have a driver’s license.
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