Chaplain
Nacogdoches, TX · 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 ...
Chaplain
Nacogdoches, TX · 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 ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Chaplain
Colchester, VT · 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 ...
Chaplain
Colchester, VT · 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 ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Chaplain
Yonkers, NY · 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 ...
Chaplain
Yonkers, NY · 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 ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs * Promote attendance at religious ... Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Opportunities for continuing education are ...
Lay Chaplain information
See salary details
$29K - $35.3K
3% of jobs
$35.3K - $41.5K
6% of jobs
$41.5K - $47.8K
12% of jobs
$49.2K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$47.8K - $54.1K
18% of jobs
The median wage is $59.2K / yr.
$54.1K - $60.4K
14% of jobs
$60.4K - $66.6K
12% of jobs
$66.6K - $72.9K
8% of jobs
$75.7K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$72.9K - $79.2K
5% of jobs
$79.2K - $85.5K
13% of jobs
$85.5K - $91.7K
5% of jobs
$91.7K - $98K
4% of jobs
$29K
$63.6K
$98K
How much do lay chaplain jobs pay per year?
As of Jun 19, 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 are lay chaplains?
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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lay Chaplain, and why are they important?
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 do you become a lay chaplain?
To become a lay chaplain, individuals typically need to have a strong faith background, relevant interpersonal skills, and often complete specific training or certification programs offered by religious or community organizations. Volunteer experience or prior work in pastoral care can also be beneficial, and some positions may require background checks or clearances depending on the setting.
Where do chaplains make the most money?
Chaplains tend to earn higher salaries in healthcare and military settings due to the specialized nature of their roles and the demand for spiritual support in these environments. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and geographic location, with some regions offering higher pay due to cost of living and institutional budgets.
How does a Lay Chaplain typically collaborate with other staff members in a healthcare or educational setting?
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.
Can a chaplain be a lay person?
Yes, a lay chaplain is a non-ordained individual who provides spiritual support and pastoral care within various settings such as hospitals, prisons, or military environments. Lay chaplains often receive specialized training and certification but do not hold formal clergy titles or ordination. They serve alongside ordained chaplains to meet the spiritual needs of diverse populations.
What is the difference between Lay Chaplain vs Hospital Chaplain?
| Aspect | Lay Chaplain | Hospital Chaplain |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Often no formal theological degree, may have certification | Typically requires theological degree and certification |
| Work Environment | Community settings, religious organizations, some healthcare facilities | Hospitals, healthcare settings, medical centers |
| Employer & Industry | Religious institutions, community organizations, some healthcare facilities | Hospitals, healthcare systems, medical institutions |
| Primary Role | Provide spiritual support, counseling, and community outreach | Offer 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.
What do lay chaplains do?
Lay chaplains provide spiritual support, counseling, and prayer to individuals in settings such as hospitals, prisons, or military environments. They often work alongside professional clergy, requiring good communication skills and sometimes relevant certifications or training in pastoral care.
More about Lay Chaplain jobs
What job categories do people searching Lay Chaplain jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lay Chaplain jobs are:
United States Navy rating
6.3
Based on 371 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
38th of 46 rated military and defense
Job description
As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines, supporting and uplifting the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others.
RESPONSIBILITIES
As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful and most difficult moments. Your responsibilities might be to:
- Conduct worship services in a variety of settings
- Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms
- Counsel individuals who seek guidance
- Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups
- Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and their family members
- Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs
- Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences
- Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being
PAY AND BENEFITS
From the day you start, you’ll receive:
- Competitive salary
- Free health insurance
- Free housing
- A retirement plan
- 30 days paid vacation per year
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
If you’re in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you could potentially enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student.
Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by:
- Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Navy Tuition Assistance Program
- Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) or Navy War College (NWC)
- Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Find out more about additional education opportunities for Officers, including post-graduate school.
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
- U.S. citizen or equivalent
- Graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution • Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience
- Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of Defense
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of service members. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight in the moment, whenever they’re needed. You could provide support while on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or when conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier.
PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES
There are part-time opportunities as a Navy Chaplain. Serving part-time as a Reserve Chaplain gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home.
What United States Navy employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
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