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Pastoral Care Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Serves as an assistant to the Pastoral Care Coordinator and follows established policies and procedures Provides pastoral care to patients throughout the life span including newborns, children ...

Pastoral Care Associate

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$30K - $35K/yr

Pastoral Care Associate - Skilled Nursing Facility Full-time - Salaried - Exempt position St ... Prepare visiting and communion lists for volunteers and staff to track visits to residents. Assist ...

Pastoral Care Educator

Albany, NY · On-site

$78K - $122K/yr

Partners with Spiritual Care Manager to sustain 24/7 pastoral care coverage for the medical center ... non-compliance to plan. Assist as needed, as directed with training new personnel, either ...

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Pastoral Care Assistant information

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$12

$19

$26

How much do pastoral care assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for pastoral care assistant in the United States is $19.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pastoral care assistant?

Pastoral Care Assistants are staff members who support the emotional, social, and sometimes spiritual well-being of individuals within settings such as schools, hospitals, or care homes. They work closely with students, patients, or residents to provide guidance, listen to concerns, and help resolve personal or behavioral issues. Their role often involves liaising with families, teachers, or healthcare professionals to create a supportive environment. Pastoral Care Assistants are not usually qualified counselors, but they play a key role in promoting a caring and inclusive atmosphere.

What does a pastoral care assistant do?

A Pastoral Care Assistant plays a vital role in supporting students’ well-being by providing one-on-one guidance, helping to resolve conflicts, and assisting with emotional or behavioral challenges. They frequently collaborate with teachers, counselors, and senior pastoral staff to identify students in need and develop strategies for support. This often involves attending meetings, maintaining confidential records, and sometimes liaising with parents or external agencies. Building trusting relationships and strong communication skills are key to success in this role, as is the ability to adapt to the changing needs of the school community.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a pastoral care assistant?

To thrive as a Pastoral Care Assistant, you need a background in counseling or social care, basic understanding of safeguarding, and usually relevant certifications or training in pastoral support. Familiarity with record-keeping systems and safeguarding protocols is commonly required. Compassion, active listening, and strong interpersonal skills help you build trust and support those in need. These skills are crucial for providing emotional support and ensuring the well-being and safety of individuals in educational or community settings.

What is the difference between Pastoral Care Assistant vs Chaplain?

AspectPastoral Care AssistantChaplain
Required CredentialsRelevant certifications, training in counseling or spiritual careOften requires formal theological education and ordination
Work EnvironmentHospitals, care homes, community settingsHospitals, military, prisons, religious institutions
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, community organizationsReligious organizations, hospitals, military
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve providing spiritual and emotional support, a Pastoral Care Assistant typically has relevant certifications and works in healthcare or community settings. A Chaplain usually has formal theological training and serves in specialized environments like hospitals or military institutions. The roles overlap in offering spiritual care but differ in qualifications and scope of practice.

What are the qualifications for pastoral care assistant?

A pastoral care assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring post-secondary education or certifications in counseling, social work, or theology. Relevant skills include strong communication, empathy, and active listening, and some positions may require background checks or experience in healthcare or religious settings.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Pastoral Care jobs?

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What states have the most Pastoral Care Assistant jobs?

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Infographic showing various Pastoral Care Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,596 per year, or $19 per hour.

Pastoral Care Assistant

Shannon Health

Big Spring, TX • On-site

Per diem

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Summary
Provides spiritual support and counseling to all patients, families, and associates of Shannon Medical Center in accordance with their individual religious preferences through routine and/or referral visits. Serves as an assistant to the Pastoral Care Coordinator and follows established policies and procedures Provides pastoral care to patients throughout the life span including newborns, children, adolescents, adults and geriatric age groups.
Qualifications
Education
  • Required
    • High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent
    • Endorsement of denomination and certified ordination of denomination

Experience:
  • Required
    • Two years of Pastoral experience
  • Preferred
    • One year of Hospital experience
    • Knowledge of many faith groups and Chrisitan denominations and their diversity of worship and ministry.

Certification/Licensure:
  • Preferred

Ordained as a minister from an accredited theological institution