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Catechist Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... Catechist Certification Handbook). Once certified, a teacher is expected to earn 18 clock hours of religious certification training every 3 years. 5. Actively demonstrate initiative, cooperation ...

Catechist information

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$9

$27

$63

How much do catechist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for catechist in Chicago, IL is $27.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.54 and $31.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a catechist?

A Catechist is a person who teaches and shares the principles of the Catholic faith, often in a parish or school setting. They help prepare children and adults for sacraments like Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation. Catechists use scripture, church teachings, and personal faith experience to guide others in their spiritual growth. This role is usually volunteer-based but may be a paid position in some settings. Effective Catechists have strong communication skills, deep faith, and a passion for religious education.

What does a catechist do?

A typical week for a Catechist often involves preparing lesson plans, leading religious education classes, and attending staff or parent meetings to coordinate curriculum and student progress. Catechists frequently collaborate with parish priests, directors of religious education, and volunteers to create a supportive learning environment. They may also communicate with parents to address questions or provide updates on program activities. This collaborative approach helps ensure that faith formation is meaningful and consistent across the parish community.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a catechist?

To thrive as a Catechist, you need a solid understanding of religious teachings, lesson planning skills, and often a certification in catechetical ministry or related theological education. Familiarity with religious education curricula, digital presentation tools, and sometimes church management software may be required. Strong communication, patience, and interpersonal skills are crucial for engaging learners of various ages and backgrounds. These skills enable Catechists to effectively convey faith teachings, foster community participation, and support spiritual development.

What are the duties of a catechist?

A catechist is responsible for teaching religious education and faith formation to students or parishioners, often preparing lessons based on church curricula. They facilitate understanding of religious doctrines, sacraments, and moral teachings, and may assist in organizing religious events or programs. Certification or training in religious education is typically required, and they often work on a volunteer or part-time basis within a church or faith community.

What are the most commonly searched types of Catechist jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Catechist jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Catechist job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,238 per year, or $27 per hour.

Coordinator of Family Faith Formation - St. Catherine of Alexandria - Oak Lawn

Archdiocese of Chicago

Oak Lawn, IL • On-site

$40K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Archdiocese of Chicago rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 18 rated religious organizations


Job description

The Archdiocese of Chicago, the third largest in the United States, serves more than 2.2 million Catholics in 216 parishes in Cook County and Lake County, a geographic area of 1,411 square miles. The Archdiocese, pastored by Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, has more than 13,000 employees in its systems and ministries, including Catholic Charities, the region's largest nonprofit social service agency. The Archdiocese also has one of the country's largest seminaries. The Archdiocese's 150+ elementary and secondary schools comprise one of the largest U.S. private school systems. Its schools have received 96 U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Awards.
St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish is seeking a Coordinator of Family Faith Formation to implement a comprehensive religious education/faith formation supporting the parish vision, mission and Archdiocesan policies. This position is responsible for creating a culture to inspire students, families and members to grow in relationship with Jesus and mature in their faith, equipped to make disciples of others.
Position Overview:
  • Collaborate with Pastor, Associate Pastor, Principal, Assistant Principal and other Parish staff members.
  • Coordinates the family centered Children's Religious Education Program (REP), Levels 1-8. This includes recruiting and training Catechists, development of all aspects of the REP program and curriculum, sacramental preparation for both our RE and School students and parent/student meetings.
  • Establishment of Jr. High and High School Youth Ministry Program including creating an outreach plan and developing a program to connect with young adults and engage them in the mission of the Catholic Church.
  • Coordinate and oversee sacramental preparation including Baptismal Preparation and Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) and other Ministries such as Children's Liturgy of the Word (CLOW), etc. with the assistance of the Associate Pastor.
  • Responsible for participating in staff and Archdiocesan meetings, promoting the RE program to increase participation, ensures compliance with all Archdiocesan guidelines, manages volunteers and engages in continuing education for professional and ministerial growth and development.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Understands the doctrines of the Catholic Church. Possesses excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills. Ability to plan, organize and meet deadlines.
  • Demonstrates strong collaboration skills and leads by example. Must be flexible regarding weekend and evening work hours. Proficient in MS Office, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Zoom and the utilization of technology for virtual communications with students, parents and staff.

Requirements:
BS or BA in Theology, Education or Pastoral Studies preferred along with Archdiocesan Catechist Certification. Minimum of 3 years working in the field of parish ministry.
The Archdiocese of Chicago offers a comprehensive total rewards package to include competitive compensation and benefit programs. Information about our benefit programs is available here.
This position has an annualized salary range of - $40,000 - $52,000. An employee's pay within the salary range will be based on many factors including but not limited to: relevant education, qualifications, experience, skills, geographic location, and organizational needs.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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About Archdiocese of Chicago

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Archdiocese of Chicago is not a company per se, but a large and influential Roman Catholic ecclesiastical jurisdiction in United States. Based in Chicago, Illinois, it was established in 1843 and primarily serves to guide over 2.2 million Catholics in its territory in spiritual and religious matters. Its main function includes pastoral care through parishes and ministries, education via the wide network of Catholic schools, and the promotion of various social service programs. The Archdiocese of Chicago’s mission is to share Christ's love with the community through worship, evangelization, and service.

Industry

Religious organizations

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1843