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Lay Chaplain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The GEO Group

CHAPLAIN

Golden Valley, AZ · On-site

$49K/yr

Plans, directs, and coordinates all aspects of religious program and volunteer services, including selection, approval and training of both lay and clergy volunteers. * The Chaplain conducts worship ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

Fresno, CA · On-site

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

Bronx, NY

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

Rock Hill, SC

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

Frederick, MD · On-site

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

Providence, RI

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

San Diego, CA

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

Brockton, MA · On-site

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

Carrollton, GA

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

Mckinney, TX

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

Lexington, KY

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

South Portland, ME · On-site

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

Tacoma, WA

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

Edwardsville, IL

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

Erie, PA · On-site

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

New Haven, CT

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

U.S. Navy

Chaplain

Birmingham, AL

Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...

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Lay Chaplain information

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$29K

$63.6K

$98K

How much do lay chaplain jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for lay 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.

What is a lay chaplain?

Lay chaplains are individuals who provide spiritual, emotional, and pastoral support in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, prisons, or the military, without being ordained clergy. They often serve people of all faiths or those with no religious affiliation, offering comfort, guidance, and a listening ear during challenging times. While they may have formal training in pastoral care or counseling, lay chaplains are not required to perform sacraments or lead religious services, focusing instead on support and presence.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a lay chaplain?

To thrive as a Lay Chaplain, you need a solid grounding in pastoral care, active listening, and spiritual guidance, often supported by relevant training or theological education. Familiarity with record-keeping systems, safeguarding protocols, and sometimes specific faith-based certifications is important. Compassion, cultural sensitivity, and strong interpersonal communication skills help build trust and offer effective emotional support. These skills are essential for providing holistic care, promoting well-being, and supporting diverse communities in sensitive settings.

How does a lay chaplain collaborate with other staff members?

A Lay Chaplain often works closely with multidisciplinary teams, including nurses, doctors, counselors, and social workers, to provide holistic support to patients, students, or community members. Collaboration involves participating in care planning meetings, sharing insights on the emotional and spiritual needs of individuals, and coordinating support services or referrals. Open communication and mutual respect are essential, as Lay Chaplains advocate for spiritual care while respecting professional boundaries and confidentiality. This teamwork helps ensure comprehensive care and a positive environment for those they serve.

What is the difference between Lay Chaplain vs Hospital Chaplain?

AspectLay ChaplainHospital Chaplain
CredentialsOften no formal theological degree, may have certificationTypically requires theological degree and certification
Work EnvironmentCommunity settings, religious organizations, some healthcare facilitiesHospitals, healthcare settings, medical centers
Employer & IndustryReligious institutions, community organizations, some healthcare facilitiesHospitals, healthcare systems, medical institutions
Primary RoleProvide spiritual support, counseling, and community outreachOffer spiritual care, emotional support, and chaplaincy services in medical settings

While both Lay Chaplains and Hospital Chaplains provide spiritual support, the main difference lies in their work environment and credentials. Hospital Chaplains typically have formal theological training and work directly within healthcare settings, whereas Lay Chaplains often serve in community or religious organizations with varied certifications.

More about Lay Chaplain jobs

What are popular job titles related to Lay Chaplain jobs?

For Lay Chaplain jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Lay Chaplain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lay Chaplain job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 44% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,587 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

FIELD CHAPLAIN

Pavilion, NY • On-site

Midwest Palliative & Hospice CareCenter
See more jobs at Midwest Palliative & Hospice CareCenterexternal

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a Field Chaplain to join our team!
This is a part time position. We will commit to giving a minimum of 8 hours per week and potentially able to work more hours based on cencus and availability. We are seeking Chaplain with a flexible schedule that can work a variety of shifts (days, evenings 5pm-Midnight or Midnight to 8:30am, and weekends (must be available 2 weekends out of the month)
Our Chaplain provides spiritual and emotional support for patients, families of patients, and caregivers.
KEY JOB BEHAVIORS
  • Completes 4-5 visits a day, at minimum, on an average day, assuming an average caseload (based on full time FTE) and demonstrates service excellence.

  • Utilizes Plan of Care and enters Projected Visits as required.

  • Demonstrates ability to facilitate Family Meeting.

  • Demonstrates effective coordination and facilitation of Memorial Services at facilities.

  • Demonstrates knowledge of Hospice Medicare Benefit Information including knowledge of Levels of Care.

  • Participates in two Educational Presentations and/or organized committee every year.

  • Demonstrate ability to complete a consent.

  • Documentation reflects plan of care and is completed in accordance with policy.

  • Prepare and participate at IDT meetings.

  • Read emails on days scheduled to work.

  • Listen to Voicemails twice on days scheduled to work.

Skills & Requirements
Education:
Master of Divinity or related graduate level theological degree (MTS, MAPT, MAHL, etc)
Ordination/consecration or lay chaplain endorsed/licensed/canonically resident by denomination and of active status
Clinical Pastoral Education - at least one unit - four preferred
Experience
Previous experience as a Chaplain in hospital/hospice setting preferred.
Basic computer skills and willingness/capability to learn software applications and EMR documentation.
Other Requirements
Must possess/use own vehicle, have valid driver's license and maintain liability auto insurance.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to use a PDA, cell phone, and computer.
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