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Chaplain Intern Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The CPE Educator provides Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), which is professional training for ministry within clinical settings, to Chaplain Intern, Chaplain Resident, and Certified Educator ...

Chaplain Intern information

See Michigan salary details

$25.3K

$55.4K

$85.4K

How much do chaplain intern jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for chaplain intern in Michigan is $55,422.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,300.00 and $69,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Chaplain Intern, you generally need a background in theology, pastoral care, or a related field, often supported by enrollment in or completion of a seminary or divinity program. Familiarity with electronic documentation systems and knowledge of confidentiality practices are commonly required, and some programs may prefer Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) experience. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and cultural sensitivity are crucial for providing emotional and spiritual support to diverse individuals. These skills ensure compassionate, ethical, and effective spiritual care in challenging environments such as hospitals or correctional facilities.

What qualifications do I need to be a chaplain?

To become a chaplain intern, candidates typically need a minimum of a bachelor's degree, often in theology, religious studies, or a related field. Relevant experience, strong interpersonal skills, and sometimes certification or endorsement from a religious organization are also important. Many positions require ongoing training or supervision as part of the internship process.

What are chaplain interns?

Chaplain interns are individuals, often students or those in training, who work under the supervision of experienced chaplains to provide spiritual care and emotional support in settings like hospitals, prisons, or the military. They participate in clinical pastoral education (CPE) programs to develop their skills in counseling, crisis intervention, and religious services. Chaplain interns support people from diverse backgrounds and faiths, helping them cope with difficult situations while learning the practical aspects of chaplaincy.

How much do church interns get paid?

Church intern pay varies widely depending on the location, organization, and responsibilities, but many internships are unpaid or offer a small stipend. Some paid positions may range from minimum wage to a few thousand dollars per month, often supplemented by housing or other benefits. Compensation is often influenced by the internship's duration, required skills, and whether it is part-time or full-time.

Can I be a chaplain without being ordained?

Chaplain internships often do not require candidates to be ordained, but requirements vary by organization and setting. Some chaplain roles may accept non-ordained individuals who have relevant training, certifications, or pastoral experience, while others may require ordination or specific credentials. It is important to review the specific requirements of the organization offering the internship.

What is a chaplain intern?

A chaplain intern is a person gaining practical experience in providing spiritual support and counseling within religious or healthcare settings. They typically work under supervision, develop pastoral skills, and may be pursuing relevant certifications or education in theology or chaplaincy. The role often involves offering comfort to individuals facing difficult situations and learning about spiritual care practices.

What are some common challenges Chaplain Interns face when balancing clinical responsibilities with spiritual support?

Chaplain Interns often find it challenging to balance direct patient care responsibilities with providing consistent spiritual support to patients, families, and staff. Time management and setting healthy boundaries are crucial, as interns may be called to respond to urgent spiritual needs while also participating in educational seminars, documentation, and case discussions. Developing effective communication skills and seeking guidance from supervising chaplains can help interns navigate these challenges and provide holistic care.

What is the difference between Chaplain Intern vs Chaplain Resident?

AspectChaplain InternChaplain Resident
CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a relevant theological degree; may have limited certificationUsually has completed some certification or is in a formal residency program
Work EnvironmentHospitals, military, or correctional facilities; supervised, learning-focusedSame settings, with increased responsibilities and independent patient interactions
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, military, chaplaincy programsHospitals, military, chaplaincy programs, with a focus on training

In summary, a Chaplain Intern is typically in the early stages of training, focusing on learning and observation, while a Chaplain Resident has advanced training and takes on more independent duties within similar settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chaplain jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Chaplain jobs in Michigan are:
CPE Educator

CPE Educator

Trinity Health

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Trinity Health rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 349 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

592nd of 872 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Employment Type:
Full timeShift:
Description:
CPE Educator
Department: Interns CPE
Location: Trinity Health Ann Arbor
Minimum Salary: $76,835
Status: Full-time, 40 hours/week
Shift Available: Days
Total Rewards and Benefits:
  • Competitive compensation, DAILYPAY
  • Benefits effective Day One! No waiting periods.
  • Full benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO, Life Insurance, Short and Long-term Disability
  • Retirement savings plan with employer match and contributions
  • Opportunity for growth and advancement throughout Trinity Health
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Position Purpose:
The CPE Educator provides Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), which is professional training for ministry within clinical settings, to Chaplain Intern, Chaplain Resident, and Certified Educator Candidacy (CEC) students in programs accredited by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE), an educational provider recognized by the US Department of Education. The CPE Educator may also provide direct Spiritual Care delivery (e.g., chaplaincy) and/or Mission Integration and Spiritual Care education (e.g., interprofessional colleague seminars) services.
Required Qualifications:
Education
  • Must possess a comprehensive knowledge of theory and practice pertaining to the clinical supervision (education) of CPE students, as normally obtained through undergraduate and graduate degrees from a college, university, or theological school accredited by the Council for Higher Education (CHE) or the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) such as a degree in theology (e.g. M.Div.) or a related field (e.g. pastoral ministry, pastoral counseling, mission leadership).
  • Ecclesiastical endorsement as required for ACPE Educator certification (as above).

Experience
  • One to two years of Spiritual Care experience within an acute care and/or related healthcare ministry. One to three years of faith group ministry leader and/or experience is preferred. An equivalent combination of experience may be considered.
  • General skills as an educator, including excellent interpersonal skills to interact effectively in professional relationships of ministry and education with chaplaincy students, who in turn provide Spiritual Care ministry to patients, visitors, and colleagues in crisis and routine care situations while under the clinical supervision of the CPE Educator

Physical and Mental Requirements and Working Conditions:
  • Must be able to set and organize own work priorities and adapt to them as they change frequently. Must be able to work concurrently on a variety of tasks/projects in an environment that may be stressful with individuals having diverse personalities and work styles.
  • Must be able to travel to the various Trinity Health sites up to 50% of time as needed.
  • Must possess the ability to comply with Trinity Health policies and procedures.
  • Ability to read, comprehend, interpret, and assess technical material from related fields of study as well as student generated material for evaluation.
  • Ability to write comprehensive and effective student evaluations of learning progress according to ACPE standards.

What you will do:
  • In conjunction with the Director of CPE and with advice from the ACPE Center Professional Advisory Group (PAG) for CPE, maintains ACPE accreditation and the standards of the ACPE.
  • Completes and submits required ACPE Center reports per ACPE standards.
  • Under the direction of the Director of CPE, reviews, updates, and develops program policies for the ACPE Center including keeping the student handbook(s) up to date in accordance with ACPE standards and conducting the periodic ACPE accreditation reviews according to ACPE standards.
  • Educates and clinically supervises CPE students in a manner congruent with Trinity Health's mission and Core Values and according to ACPE standards, through activities such as: creates and utilizes a well-developed curriculum for the ACPE Center's CPE programs., recruits, interviews, and selects students for the ACPE Center's CPE programs in conjunction with the Director of CPE, provides student orientation and training in cooperation with Managers of Spiritual Care relating to the ACPE Center, provides excellent and innovative educational opportunities in the context of clinical supervision of CPE students, provides timely feedback to CPE students on their educational assignments and clinical ministry.
  • Supports a collegial and interdisciplinary approach to the provision of Spiritual Care education and ministry by fostering the professional practice of Spiritual Care delivery to the communities served.
  • Serves as an educational liaison to interdisciplinary healthcare professionals (e.g., medicine, social work, nursing, etc.) by developing cross-discipline adjunct instructors for chaplaincy students, and by serving as an educational resource concerning Spiritual Care theory and practice.
  • May help develop educational materials for orientation programs on Spiritual Care, such as for nursing and general colleague orientations, etc.
  • May provide education - both formally and informally - on subjects related to Mission Integration and Spiritual Care to professionals within and across various healthcare disciplines.
  • May help develop educational curricula for Trinity Health CPE programming.
  • Provides limited (typically 10%-20% of total time) direct Spiritual Care ministry to patients, families, and staff in the role of a chaplain, which may include assisting with chaplaincy back-up coverage. May function as a chaplain in designated clinical areas, and in the support of CPE students.
  • Serves as a resource for and member of local Spiritual Care leadership teams.

Our Commitment
Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About Trinity Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Trinity Health Ann Arbor is a 537 -bed teaching hospital located on 340 acre campus. Recognized by IBM Watson as a Top 100 Hospital and #1 Teaching Hospital, Trinity Health Ann Arbor has been a leading health care provider for more than 100 years. Trinity Health has received numerous local and national awards in recognition of our leadership, quality outcomes, and clinical excellence.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Livonia, MI, US