Ordained Minister Chaplain information
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$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
How much do ordained minister chaplain jobs pay per year?
As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for ordained minister 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.
An Ordained Minister Chaplain is a clergy member who has been formally ordained by a religious organization and serves as a spiritual leader or counselor in various settings, such as hospitals, the military, prisons, schools, or community organizations. Unlike traditional ministers who usually serve in a church, chaplains provide emotional and spiritual support to people of all backgrounds, often in times of crisis or need. Their duties may include conducting religious services, offering prayer and guidance, and providing comfort regardless of the individual's faith. Ordained Minister Chaplains must typically meet the requirements of both their religious denomination and the institution where they serve.
To thrive as an Ordained Minister Chaplain, you need formal ordination, a strong theological background, and often a degree in divinity or pastoral care. Familiarity with pastoral care resources, counseling methods, and record-keeping systems is commonly required, along with, in some settings, certification from chaplaincy organizations. Compassion, active listening, and strong interpersonal communication are vital soft skills for providing spiritual support and guidance. These skills are crucial for fostering trust, offering comfort, and helping individuals navigate challenging life situations in spiritual and institutional settings.
Ordained Minister Chaplains in hospital environments often work closely with doctors, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare staff to provide holistic care to patients and their families. They participate in interdisciplinary team meetings, offer spiritual support during medical crises, and help staff navigate ethical or emotional challenges. Collaboration is essential to ensure that patients' spiritual needs are respected and integrated into the overall care plan, and chaplains often serve as a bridge between medical teams and families from diverse backgrounds.
What are popular job titles related to Ordained Minister Chaplain jobs?
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