About 92% worked in the funeral services industry. Funeral directors work mostly in funeral homes and crematories. The mood can be quiet and somber, and the work is often stressful. They have to arrange the many details of a funeral within 24 to 72 hours of death. They also may be responsible for multiple funerals on the same day. Although funeral directors handle corpses, the health risk is minimal. Still, they must follow safety and health regulations.

Most funeral directors work full time. They are often on call and work long hours, including nights and weekends.