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First Responder Chaplain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are a people-first organization whose funds go to serve our mission. Due to our significant ... Plans work day to respond to priorities as well as to minimize travel time. * Actively participates ...

MEN's - Mission Chaplain

Spokane, WA · On-site

$21.39 - $28.17/hr

... respond to requests for assistance. * Attend weekly Men's Shelter staff meeting. * Fulfill ... CPR/First Aid certification - required. * Yearly TB clearance - required. WORKING CONDITIONS ...

Chaplain PRN - Methodist

Peoria, IL · On-site

$24.32 - $40.61/hr

When already supporting another situation, communicates when they will be available to respond and ... The system includes Methodist College and Carle Illinois College of Medicine, the world's first ...

Chaplain PRN - Methodist

Peoria, IL · On-site

$24.32 - $40.61/hr

When already supporting another situation, communicates when they will be available to respond and ... The system includes Methodist College and Carle Illinois College of Medicine, the world's first ...

... first 18 months of employment. Computer Skills: Knowledge of basic typing skills, data entry and ... Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers ...

CHAPLAIN

Naples, FL · On-site

$58K - $65K/yr

... first 18 months of employment. Computer Skills: Knowledge of basic typing skills, data entry and ... Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers ...

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First Responder Chaplain information

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$29K

$63.6K

$98K

How much do first responder chaplain jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for first responder chaplain 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.

How to become a firefighter chaplain?

To become a firefighter chaplain, candidates typically need to be ordained or credentialed clergy and have experience working with emergency services. Many departments prefer applicants with training in crisis intervention, counseling, or chaplaincy certification, and some may require background checks and specialized training in fire service operations. Volunteering or working closely with fire departments can also improve chances of placement.

What does a first responder chaplain do?

A first responder chaplain provides spiritual support, emotional comfort, and crisis intervention to emergency personnel and victims during and after incidents such as accidents, natural disasters, or violence. They often work alongside emergency teams, offering counseling, grief support, and spiritual guidance in high-stress situations. Certification in chaplaincy and familiarity with emergency response protocols are typically required.

What are First Responder Chaplains?

First Responder Chaplains are trained individuals who provide emotional, spiritual, and practical support to first responders such as police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and their families. They offer counseling, crisis intervention, and guidance during and after emergencies or traumatic events. Chaplains often respond to critical incidents, provide comfort, and help first responders cope with stress, grief, and difficult situations, regardless of the responders' personal beliefs.

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

To thrive as a First Responder Chaplain, you typically need a background in pastoral care, crisis intervention training, and theological education or ordination. Familiarity with incident command systems, emergency response protocols, and certifications such as Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) are often required. Exceptional listening skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to communicate compassionately are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities enable chaplains to provide effective spiritual and emotional support to first responders during high-stress situations, fostering well-being and resilience within emergency teams.

How does a First Responder Chaplain typically support team members during and after critical incidents?

First Responder Chaplains play a crucial role in providing emotional and spiritual support to first responders during and after critical incidents. They often offer immediate on-scene care, debrief with individuals or groups to help process traumatic events, and provide ongoing counseling as needed. Chaplains collaborate closely with command staff, mental health professionals, and peer support teams to ensure comprehensive care. This partnership helps create a resilient work environment and fosters trust among team members, encouraging them to seek support when facing difficult situations.

Where do chaplains make the most money?

First responder chaplains tend to earn higher salaries in regions with larger emergency services budgets and higher living costs, such as urban areas or states with higher average wages. Salary can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the size of the organization they serve. Generally, chaplains working for government agencies or large hospitals in metropolitan areas tend to have higher earning potential.

Do firefighter chaplains get paid?

Firefighter chaplains are typically volunteers, but some departments may offer stipends or part-time pay for their services. Compensation varies depending on the department and whether the chaplain is a paid staff member or volunteer. Many chaplains serve in a voluntary capacity while providing spiritual support during emergencies and community events.
More about First Responder Chaplain jobs
What cities are hiring for First Responder Chaplain jobs? Cities with the most First Responder Chaplain job openings:
What states have the most First Responder Chaplain jobs? States with the most job openings for First Responder Chaplain jobs include:
COPE Team Clinical Chaplain, Spiritual Services

COPE Team Clinical Chaplain, Spiritual Services

University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


University Of Iowa Health Care rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

298th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Description
The department of Spiritual Services at University of Iowa Health Care has an opening for a full-time COPE Team Clinical Chaplain. The COPE Team allows nurses, physicians, residents, unit staff, and other care providers to seek help and support after emotionally challenging experiences at work. The COPE Team offers individual and group support, as well as training for staff members that want to be a source of comfort and support for their colleagues.
Clinical Chaplains also serve as an integral part of interdisciplinary team serving patients and families cared for within UI Health Care and to advocate for and with patients and families and staff according to values consistent with patients' belief systems.
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload a current resume and a cover letter that clearly addresses how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position.
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The COPE Team Chaplains will:
  • Facilitate group support interventions and provides individual peer support.
  • Round on designated units to proactively support staff and build relationships.
  • Participate in monthly COPE Team meetings.
  • Provide mentoring to unit peer supporters as a part of the COPE Team Peer Support Mentor Program.
  • Provide education about COPE Team scope of service and offerings.
  • Develop collaborative relationships with internal and external customers.
  • Assist with program evaluation and metrics.
  • Ensure the appropriate staff development and competency trainings based on the program/staff/institutional needs.
  • Prepare/submit monthly, quarterly, and annual reports as necessary.
  • Assist in recruiting volunteers for the COPE Team.
  • At times will assist in coordinating support interventions for the COPE Team (Peer Support and Debriefings).

Other Clinical Chaplain duties and responsibilities include (but are not limited to*):
  • Identifies patients requiring spiritual intervention
  • Provides spiritual care and services to patients and their families
  • Provides liaison and referral services to hospital and community resources
  • Provides information, consultation, and professional support to interdisciplinary team members
  • Documents according to department and hospital policies and procedures
  • Participates in and utilizes supervision to assess skill level, identify areas for professional growth and establish mutually agreed-upon goals
  • Contributes to strengthening the chaplaincy profession
  • Demonstrates initiative and provides leadership in developing services that respond to patient care demands
  • Participates in Departmental 24 hour on-call coverage
  • Performs other projects and tasks as assigned

* To request a copy of the full job description for the COPE Team Clinical Chaplain, please email heidi-bodensteiner@uiowa.edu .
Location: This position is located at the UI Health Care Medical Center, 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA
Pay Level: 3A
Benefits Highlights: Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans. Complete information regarding the full benefits package may be viewed at: https://hr.uiowa.edu/benefits
Department of Spiritual Services website: https://uihc.org/spiritual-services-medical-center-university-campus
Qualifications
Education and Experience Required:
  • A master's degree and Board Certification or eligible to be board certified. Board certification within 2 years of hire.
  • Excellent oral and written communications skills; ability to effectively transmit, receive, and interpret ideas, information, and needs through appropriate communication methods and behaviors.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent objectives, projects, groups, or activities, making effective judgments as to prioritizing and time allocation. Demonstrates high attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
  • Familiarity with EMR (electronic medical record)
  • Experience in fast-paced, high-volume work environment
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively with multi-disciplinary team

Desirable Qualifications:
  • Crisis management experience supporting groups or individuals through debriefings or emotional first aid.
  • Strong presentation and teaching skills.
  • Ability to research relevant information and prepare PowerPoint presentations.
  • Experience in leading a team in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
  • Ability to develop and lead projects independently.

Application Process:
  • In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload a current resume and a cover letter that clearly identifies how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position.
  • Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
  • Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check.
  • Professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
  • This position is not eligible for University of Iowa sponsorship for employment authorization.
  • For questions, contact Heidi Bodensteiner at heidi-bodensteiner@uiowa.edu .

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