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