Interest in career change from funeral service to autopsy technician. Advice/Experience?
As the title states, I am considering a change. I have not yet finished mortuary school, but I've put in a fair amount of time in at a local funeral home. I've learned that I do very well with families, I am comfortable around the deceased, and I think that I am meant to help people rest in one way or another. I love the people I work with, but the glaring issues in the funeral industry are beginning to overwhelm me. The grueling hours, short staffing, lack of separation between work and home, and low pay are a bit much. All of my (wonderful) coworkers are so burnt out. I am becoming nervous that I too, would only make it about 5 years before quitting. 60+ hours a week to be at the poverty line in my area is just too much. I am aware that autopsy techs do not make much, either. However, from my limited understanding, the work/life balance is better and it seems as though the overall work environment may feel more casual. I want to stay in a field that I am skilled in and feel fulfilled in. I just want to have the time to enjoy my life outside of work. Has anyone else made the change? Pros vs cons? How hard did you have to look to get hired at an ME office?