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Pastoral Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Pastoral Associate information

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$15K

$51.2K

$84K

How much do pastoral associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for pastoral associate in the United States is $51,245.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a pastoral associate do?

A pastoral associate provides spiritual support, counseling, and religious education within a faith community. They often assist with worship services, coordinate community outreach programs, and work closely with clergy to meet the spiritual needs of congregants. Strong communication skills and knowledge of religious practices are essential for this role.

What are Pastoral Associates?

Pastoral Associates are lay professionals who assist clergy in the spiritual and administrative life of a parish or religious community. They often coordinate ministries, lead liturgical and educational programs, and provide pastoral care to parishioners. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the needs of the community, but they generally support the mission of the church by serving as a bridge between clergy and laity. Pastoral Associates usually have training in theology or pastoral ministry and work closely with pastors and other staff.

What is the difference between Pastoral Associate vs Pastoral Minister?

AspectPastoral AssociatePastoral Minister
CredentialsUsually requires a bachelor's degree in theology, ministry, or related field; often some certification or training in pastoral careTypically holds a master's degree in divinity or theology; may have additional pastoral certification
Work EnvironmentWorks within church communities, assisting clergy with pastoral care, programs, and outreachLeads or oversees church programs, provides spiritual guidance, and may perform sacraments
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in churches, religious organizations, and faith-based community servicesFound in similar settings but often with more leadership responsibilities

While both roles serve in church settings and require theological education, a Pastoral Associate typically supports clergy and focuses on pastoral care and community programs. A Pastoral Minister often has more leadership duties, overseeing church initiatives and providing spiritual guidance at a higher level.

What are some common challenges a Pastoral Associate may encounter when supporting diverse parish communities?

Pastoral Associates often serve parish communities with a wide range of backgrounds, traditions, and needs. One common challenge is effectively engaging and ministering to individuals from different cultural, generational, or socio-economic groups, which requires sensitivity and adaptability. Additionally, balancing administrative duties, event planning, and direct pastoral care can be demanding. Successful Pastoral Associates typically develop strong communication skills, cultural awareness, and collaborative relationships with clergy, staff, and volunteers to address these challenges and foster an inclusive, supportive parish environment.

What does a pastoral care associate do?

A pastoral care associate provides emotional and spiritual support to individuals within a religious or community setting. They often offer counseling, visit the sick or homebound, and assist with religious services, requiring strong interpersonal skills and knowledge of spiritual practices.

What qualifications do you need to be a pastoral?

To become a pastoral associate, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in theology, ministry, or a related field, along with relevant experience in pastoral care or counseling. Some positions may require certification or training in spiritual counseling or pastoral ministry, depending on the organization or denomination.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

A Pastoral Associate typically earns less than $10,000 a month, as most roles in this field are salaried and focus on community support and spiritual guidance. High-paying jobs that can reach $10,000 monthly without a degree include roles such as sales managers, real estate brokers, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers, which often require experience or certifications rather than formal degrees. These positions may involve commission, bonuses, or overtime to achieve higher income levels.

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

To thrive as a Pastoral Associate, you need a solid background in theology, pastoral care, and ministry, often supported by a degree in religious studies or pastoral ministry. Familiarity with church management software, liturgical planning tools, and basic administrative systems is typically required. Compassion, strong interpersonal communication, and organizational skills are essential soft skills for connecting with parishioners and supporting church programs. These abilities are important because they enable the Pastoral Associate to effectively serve the spiritual and practical needs of the parish community.
More about Pastoral Associate jobs
What cities are hiring for Pastoral Associate jobs? Cities with the most Pastoral Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pastoral jobs? The most popular types of Pastoral jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Pastoral Associate jobs? The top employers for Pastoral Associate jobs are:
What states have the most Pastoral Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Pastoral Associate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Pastoral Associate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,245 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
Clinical Pastoral Education Resident

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


University Of Kansas Health System rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 170 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

252nd of 870 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Position Title
Clinical Pastoral Education ResidentVariesBell HospitalPosition Summary / Career Interest:A Chaplain provides the presence and availability to patients, and their loved ones in a manner that assures patient centered care relative to beliefs, spiritual and/or religious practice and rites. The Chaplain presence is a non-anxious one that offers calm.
A Chaplain works alongside other disciplines and offers appropriate perspective regarding the condition and recovery potential of the patient
A Chaplain offers relationship and ministry to members of the KUMC staff in such a manner that helps maintain morale and employee satisfaction.

To learn more about our Chaplain program visit: Clinical Pastoral Education Residency Program At The University of Kansas Health System

*Interested individuals must complete two applications to be considered for residency:

  • The University of Kansas Health System application by clicking "Apply Now" on this webpage and

  • Clinical Pastoral Education International application.

Responsibilities and Essential Job Functions

  • Provides pastoral/spiritual care to the multi-denominational/religion patients and family population throughout their hospital experience
  • Functions as a pastoral/spiritual resource person for the hospital staff and students
  • Collaborates and coordinates pastoral/spiritual activities with other Chaplains to meet the needs of the diverse patient and employee population
  • Conducts formal worship services open to patients, families, staff, physicians, students and others.
  • Provides for sacramental ministry and/or religious rituals as needed
  • Provides off-hour coverage with other Chaplains on a rotation basis.
  • Must be able to perform the professional, clinical and or technical competencies of the assigned unit or department.
  • These statements are intended to describe the essential functions of the job and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. Skills and duties may vary dependent upon your department or unit. Other duties may be assigned as required.


Required Education and Experience

  • Associates Degree Prefer Religious or Theological degree.
  • High School Graduate


Preferred Education and Experience

  • Bachelors Degree


Preferred Language Skills

  • Intermediate Spanish -


Knowledge Requirements

  • Must be able to read and write on a collegiate level.
  • Basic computer skills with the ability to learn and use a variety Microsoft programs.
Time Type:Full timeJob Requisition ID:R-50873Important information for you to know as you apply:
  • The health system is an equal employment opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally-protected status. See also Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

  • The health system provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need to request reasonable accommodations for your disability as you navigate the recruitment process, please let our recruiters know by requesting an Accommodation Request form using this link asktalentacquisition@kumc.edu.

  • Employment with the health system is contingent upon, among other things, agreeing to the health-system-dispute-resolution-program.pdf and signing the agreement to the DRP.

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About University of Kansas Health System

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Operating within the healthcare industry, The University of Kansas Health System is a renowned medical institution located in Kansas City, KS, United States. Established in 1905, this not-for-profit health system has evolved to offer an extensive range of products and services, which spans across a variety of specialist areas such as cancer care, neurology, cardiology, and organ transplants, among others. The core mission of The University of Kansas Health System is to enhance the health and wellness of individuals and communities by providing world-class healthcare services, quality education and conducting advanced research. They are also known for their unwavering commitment to academic medicine, which sets them apart from their peers.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, KS, US