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Chaplain Candidate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

You'll receive on-the-job training under the direct supervision of a Navy Chaplain and be financially compensated for your time while training. It's your chance to see Navy Chaplains at work and to ...

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Chaplain Candidate information

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$29K

$63.6K

$98K

How much do chaplain candidate jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for chaplain candidate in the United States is $63,587.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chaplain Candidate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chaplain Candidate, you generally need theological education, strong spiritual grounding, and endorsement from a recognized religious organization. Familiarity with pastoral care frameworks, counseling techniques, and military or institutional protocols is often required. Compassion, active listening, cultural sensitivity, and strong interpersonal communication are vital soft skills for connecting with diverse individuals. These competencies are crucial for providing effective spiritual and emotional support in challenging or high-stress environments.

What are some common challenges Chaplain Candidates face during their training and how can they prepare for them?

Chaplain Candidates often encounter unique challenges such as balancing rigorous theological studies with practical field experience, adapting to diverse spiritual and cultural needs, and developing strong interpersonal skills to support individuals in crisis. Training frequently involves working within multidisciplinary teams, which requires effective communication and collaboration. Candidates can prepare by seeking mentorship, engaging in self-care, and actively participating in hands-on learning opportunities to build resilience and adaptability.

What are Chaplain Candidates?

Chaplain Candidates are individuals who are in training to become military chaplains. They are usually seminary students or those enrolled in graduate theological programs who have been commissioned as officers in the military Chaplain Candidate Program. This allows them to gain practical ministry experience, receive leadership training, and explore military chaplaincy while completing their religious education. Chaplain Candidates do not perform all duties of full chaplains but often assist with religious services, counseling, and support activities under supervision.

What is the difference between Chaplain Candidate vs Chaplain?

AspectChaplain CandidateChaplain
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding theological degree, military endorsementCompleted theological education, ordination, and endorsement
Work EnvironmentMilitary settings, training programsHospitals, military, community, or religious organizations
Employer & IndustryMilitary branches, religious institutionsReligious organizations, hospitals, military
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding training and role differencesUnderstanding career progression and responsibilities

The main difference between a Chaplain Candidate and a Chaplain is that candidates are in training or pursuing credentials, often within the military, while Chaplains are fully credentialed professionals providing spiritual support in various settings. Candidates are typically in a transitional phase, whereas Chaplains have completed necessary education and certification to serve independently.

More about Chaplain Candidate jobs
What cities are hiring for Chaplain Candidate jobs? Cities with the most Chaplain Candidate job openings:
What states have the most Chaplain Candidate jobs? States with the most job openings for Chaplain Candidate jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chaplain Candidate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chaplain Candidate jobs are:
Chaplain Candidate Program Officer

Chaplain Candidate Program Officer

U.S. Navy

Jonesboro, AR

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

This program allows full-time seminary students (pursuing Master of Divinity (MDiv)) to be commissioned as a Navy Officer while completing theological studies at an accredited seminary or graduate school. You’ll receive on-the-job training under the direct supervision of a Navy Chaplain and be financially compensated for your time while training. It’s your chance to see Navy Chaplains at work and to experience the challenges and rewards of working in the diverse situations the Navy provides.  There is_ no obligation_ to serve beyond your seminary career and selection into the CCPO program does not guarantee you a career as a US Navy Chaplain.

Basic eligibility includes: a US citizen in excellent physical condition, no criminal history, good financial standing, and is under the age of 39.

Pre-requisites: Full-time student pursuing Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree from an accredited institution.


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About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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