Undertakers, mortuary and crematorium assistants Salary
Median salary £27,020 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £27,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For undertakers, mortuary and crematorium assistants, £30,894 is the typical (median) pay. That is below the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -21% versus the national average. Experienced undertakers, mortuary and crematorium assistants (top 25%) earn over £32,724.
About this role
Undertakers, mortuary and crematorium assistants manage the care and preparation of deceased persons, support bereaved families and operate mortuary and crematorium facilities. They handle sensitive work with dignity and professionalism.
Key responsibilities
- Collecting and transporting deceased persons
- Preparing bodies for viewing, burial or cremation
- Supporting bereaved families with practical arrangements
- Operating cremation equipment and maintaining records
- Maintaining mortuary facilities and ensuring hygiene standards
Qualifications and entry routes
National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) Diploma in Funeral Directing or equivalent. Mortuary technicians may hold APT (Association of Anatomical Pathology Technology) qualifications. On-the-job training is common for assistants.
Career outlook
Steady demand — the funeral sector is one of the most stable industries. Increasing demand for non-traditional funeral services and environmental options is changing the sector.
Key skills
Common industries
- Funeral directors
- Crematoria
- Hospital mortuaries
- Coroner's offices
- Local authority cemeteries
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£17,616
0-2 years
Mid Level
£17,616
3-7 years
Senior
£32,724
8-15 years
Potential career growth: ▲ +86% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: -2.8%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£3,874
Undertakers, mortuary and crematorium assistants salary: common questions
How much do undertakers, mortuary and crematorium assistants earn in the UK?
Is £30,894 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for undertakers, mortuary and crematorium assistants?
Have undertakers, mortuary and crematorium assistants salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for undertakers, mortuary and crematorium assistants?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).