Mortuary Attendant/Mortician Needed

MORTUARY ATTENDANT/MORTICIAN
JOB GROUP ‘E’
NUMBER OF POSITIONS: TWO (2)

Job Description

The role of a Mortuary Attendant/Mortician is a crucial one, ensuring the dignified handling, preparation, and care of deceased individuals while providing necessary support to bereaved families. The selected candidates will be responsible for receiving, handling, preparing, and preserving bodies while adhering to the highest ethical standards and legal procedures. They will also offer grief counseling and guidance to the relatives of the deceased, ensuring that they navigate this difficult time with the necessary support and respect.

Duties and Responsibilities

The duties and responsibilities of a Mortuary Attendant/Mortician at this level include, but are not limited to:

1. Collection and Reception of Bodies
   • Receiving bodies brought into the mortuary from within the hospital and from external sources such as homes, accident scenes, or other healthcare facilities following the prescribed procedures.
   • Ensuring that the bodies received are properly documented and recorded with accurate details for tracking and retrieval purposes.
   • Assisting law enforcement officers, medical personnel, and family members in the proper handover of the deceased.
2. Recording and Documentation
   • Keeping clear and accurate records of all received bodies, including personal details, cause of death (if available), and any special instructions from medical examiners or families.
   • Ensuring all necessary documentation is completed before the release of any body to the family or relevant authorities.
   • Maintaining a systematic filing system for ease of reference and accountability.
3. Preparation of Bodies
   • Washing and cleaning the deceased to prepare them for preservation, post-mortem examinations, or burial.
   • Conducting body preservation through refrigeration and embalming to prevent decomposition before the final rites.
   • Dressing bodies according to the family’s preferences or cultural traditions.
   • Applying basic cosmetic procedures where necessary to enhance the appearance of the deceased.
4. Assisting in Post-Mortem Examinations
   • Providing support to pathologists and medical personnel during post-mortem examinations by preparing the examination area and ensuring all required tools and equipment are sterilized and available.
   • Scrubbing and assisting in the handling of organs and body tissue samples during autopsies.
   • Cleaning and restoring bodies after post-mortem examinations to prepare them for viewing and burial arrangements.
5. Grief Counseling and Family Support
   • Offering emotional support and guidance to grieving families and friends who visit the mortuary to identify or collect the remains of their loved ones.
   • Assisting families in understanding legal procedures, documentation requirements, and funeral arrangements.
   • Ensuring a compassionate and sensitive approach while interacting with bereaved individuals.
6. Release of Bodies
   • Ensuring that bodies are released to the rightful family members or authorized personnel as per the laid-down procedures and documentation requirements.
   • Verifying identification documents, burial permits, and other necessary paperwork before handing over the body.
   • Maintaining a record of all released bodies for accountability and future reference.
7. General Mortuary Maintenance and Hygiene
   • Ensuring that the mortuary facility is maintained in a clean, sanitary, and dignified condition at all times.
   • Disinfecting and cleaning storage chambers, embalming tools, workstations, and other equipment to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination or the spread of infections.
   • Disposing of biohazardous waste and ensuring proper handling of medical waste materials as per health regulations.
8. Collaboration with Other Departments
   • Working closely with medical teams, law enforcement officers, funeral homes, and religious leaders to facilitate smooth and dignified funeral processes.
   • Assisting in the coordination of transportation for deceased individuals when required.
   • Providing necessary reports to hospital administration regarding mortuary operations and any arising challenges.

Requirements for Appointment

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following requirements:

1. Citizenship and Identification
   • The applicant must be a Kenyan citizen and provide a valid National Identity Card (ID) as proof.
2. Academic Qualifications
   • Possession of a valid Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) and Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) certificates.
3. Work Experience
   • A minimum of three (3) years of relevant work experience in a busy mortuary or a reputable funeral home.
   • Evidence of previous employment or experience in a similar role must be provided through letters of recommendation or certification from past employers.
4. Professional Training and Certification
   • A Certificate in Mortuary Science from a recognized institution is mandatory.
   • Training in embalming techniques to preserve bodies for extended periods and prevent decomposition is highly desirable.
   • Additional training in grief counseling and bereavement support will be an added advantage, as this role requires interaction with mourning families.
5. Skills and Competencies
   • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact with grieving families in a compassionate manner.
   • High ethical standards and integrity to handle sensitive and confidential matters professionally.
   • Ability to work in emotionally challenging situations while maintaining professionalism and empathy.
   • Knowledge of health and safety regulations, particularly in handling deceased bodies and hazardous materials.
   • Attention to detail to ensure accurate documentation and identification of deceased individuals.
   • Physical and emotional resilience to handle the demands of the job.

Additional Requirements

• Candidates must be willing to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, as mortuary services operate round the clock.
• The position requires individuals with a strong sense of responsibility and respect for the deceased and their families.
• Applicants should be able to work in a team as well as independently, ensuring all operations are carried out efficiently and respectfully.

Application Process

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should submit their applications, including:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Copies of academic and professional certificates
• A copy of the National ID
• Recommendation letters from previous employers (if available)
• Any other supporting documents relevant to the position

Apply Here