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University Chaplain Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

Chaplain

Salem, VA

$89K/yr

The Chaplain will offer counseling, conduct services, and assist Veterans and families during ... university or theological school accredited by a member of the Council for Higher Education ...

New

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

Chaplain

Salem, VA · On-site

$89K/yr

The Chaplain will offer counseling, conduct services, and assist Veterans and families during ... university or theological school accredited by a member of the Council for Higher Education ...

Amherst College

Christian Chaplain (Casual)

Amherst, VA · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

Amherst has taken a leadership role among highly selective liberal arts colleges and universities ... The Christian Chaplain is a part-time, casual, non-benefited position. The expected range for this ...

Amherst College

Jewish Chaplain (Casual)

Amherst, VA

$30 - $33/hr

Amherst has taken a leadership role among highly selective liberal arts colleges and universities ... The Chaplain will work to create an inclusive, vibrant, and pluralistic Jewish community ...

BOP: General Practitioner

Chaplain

Prince George, VA

$63K/yr

An applicant must have a conferred 4-year course of study in any field leading to a bachelor's degree, in an accredited college or university. AND Ecclesiastical Endorsement: An Ecclesiastical ...

BOP: General Practitioner

Chaplain

Jonesville, VA

$63K/yr

An applicant must have a conferred 4-year course of study in any field leading to a bachelor's degree, in an accredited college or university. AND Ecclesiastical Endorsement: An Ecclesiastical ...

Department of Justice

Chaplain

Jonesville, VA

$63K/yr

An applicant must have a conferred 4-year course of study in any field leading to a bachelor's degree, in an accredited college or university. AND Ecclesiastical Endorsement: An Ecclesiastical ...

Department of Justice

Chaplain

Prince George, VA

$63K/yr

An applicant must have a conferred 4-year course of study in any field leading to a bachelor's degree, in an accredited college or university. AND Ecclesiastical Endorsement: An Ecclesiastical ...

Riverside

$53K - $74K/yr

Masters Degree, Master of Pastoral Care or Master of Theological Studies from accredited university ... Board Certified Chaplain - The Association of Professional Chaplains (Preferred) * American Council ...

Riverside

Spiritual Coordinator

Newport, VA · On-site

$53K - $74K/yr

Masters Degree, Master of Pastoral Care or Master of Theological Studies from accredited university ... Board Certified Chaplain - The Association of Professional Chaplains (Preferred) * American Council ...

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All JobsUniversity Chaplain JobsUniversity Chaplain Jobs in Virginia

University Chaplain information

See Virginia salary details

$28.8K

$63K

$97.2K

How much do university chaplain jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for university chaplain in Virginia is $63,041.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,100.00 and $79,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a university chaplain?

University chaplains are spiritual leaders or religious advisors who support the spiritual, emotional, and ethical well-being of students, faculty, and staff at a university. They often represent various faith traditions and provide counseling, lead worship services, organize interfaith events, and offer guidance during personal or campus crises. Their role is to foster an inclusive environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel supported and respected. University chaplains also engage in educational programming and contribute to campus discussions about values and ethics.

What does a university chaplain do?

A University Chaplain plays a vital role in fostering an inclusive environment by offering spiritual guidance and support to students of all faiths, as well as those who identify as non-religious. They often organize interfaith events, provide confidential counseling, and collaborate with campus organizations to ensure that religious and spiritual needs are respected and met. Chaplains also serve as liaisons between the university and local faith communities, helping students connect with resources and traditions that are meaningful to them. This collaborative and open approach helps build a respectful and supportive campus culture.

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

To thrive as a University Chaplain, you need a background in theology or religious studies, relevant ordination or endorsement, and experience in spiritual care or counseling. Familiarity with campus ministry tools, pastoral care software, and sometimes certification in counseling or crisis intervention is typical. Exceptional interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to listen and provide nonjudgmental support make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for fostering inclusive spiritual well-being and effectively supporting the diverse needs of a university community.

What is the difference between University Chaplain vs Campus Minister?

AspectUniversity ChaplainCampus Minister
CredentialsTypically requires a master's degree in theology or divinity, along with pastoral certificationOften requires similar theological education and pastoral experience
Work EnvironmentWorks within university settings, providing spiritual support to students, faculty, and staffWorks on campus, organizing religious activities, and supporting student spiritual life
Employer & IndustryUniversities, colleges, faith-based organizationsColleges, universities, faith communities, student organizations

The main difference between a University Chaplain and a Campus Minister lies in their roles and scope. University Chaplains often have a broader spiritual leadership role within the university, including counseling and interfaith activities, while Campus Ministers typically focus on organizing religious programs and supporting student faith communities. Both roles require similar credentials and work in similar environments, but their specific responsibilities may vary based on the institution's needs.

What are popular job titles related to University Chaplain jobs in Virginia?

For University Chaplain jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching University Chaplain jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for University Chaplain jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for University Chaplain jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most University Chaplain job openings:

University Chaplain jobs near you
Infographic showing various University Chaplain job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,041 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Chaplain

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

Salem, VA

$89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Salem VAMC is seeking a dedicated Chaplain to provide compassionate spiritual care, support diverse religious practices, and serve as a key member of our interdisciplinary care team. The Chaplain will offer counseling, conduct services, and assist Veterans and families during critical moments. This role supports the mission of delivering holistic, patient-centered care to those who have served our nation.
Qualifications:Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
Basic Requirements:
  • United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
  • Education: Applicants must possess a Master of Divinity degree or equivalent educational qualifications as evidenced by a graduate-level theological degree from a college, university or theological school accredited by a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
    • Foreign Education: To be creditable, theological or related education completed outside the U.S. must be submitted to a current affiliate agency of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) listed at https://www.naces.org/members.
  • Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE): Applicants must have completed four units of CPE from a CPE center that is accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
  • Ecclesiastical Endorsement: In accordance with 38 C.F.R. 17.655, ecclesiastical endorsement is a condition of employment as a VA chaplain. An individual must possess and maintain a full and active ecclesiastical endorsement to be employed as a VA chaplain. Applicants must have an ecclesiastical endorsement, dated within the past 12 months. Ecclesiastical endorsements must be from the official national endorsing authority of the applicant's/employee's faith group or denomination. Ecclesiastical endorsement is a written official statement, by the official national endorsing body of the faith group or denomination, certifying that the applicant is in good standing with the applicant's faith group or denomination; and stating that the individual is, in the opinion of the endorsing body, qualified to perform the full range of ministry required in the VA pluralistic setting. Loss of endorsement will result in removal from the GS-0060 Chaplain series and may result in termination of employment. The National Chaplain Service maintains a list of approved endorsing organizations that can be found here: https://www.patientcare.va.gov/chaplain/Employment_Information_and_Resources.asp
  • Board Certification: Applicants must be a Board Certified Chaplain certified by the Board of Chaplaincy Certification Inc. (BCCI) or nationally recognized certification body that utilizes the BCCI Common Qualifications and Competencies for Professional Chaplaincy or a certifying organization that has a reciprocity agreement with BCCI .
    • Loss of Endorsement or Certification: Chaplains must maintain ecclesiastical endorsement and board certification. Loss of endorsement or board certification will result in removal from the GS-0060 Chaplain occupation and may result in termination of employment.
  • Grandfathering Provision: May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). All chaplains employed in VHA, in this occupational series, performing the duties as described in the qualification standard on the effective date of this qualification standard (September 24, 2020), are considered to have met all the qualification requirements for the grade held, including positive education and certification that are part of the basic requirements of the occupation. For employees who do not meet all the basic requirements of this standard, but met the qualifications applicable to the position at the time they were appointed to the position, the following provisions apply:
  • (1) Chaplains who do not meet the basic requirements for education and certification may be reassigned, promoted up to and including the full performance level, or demoted within the occupation, but may not be promoted beyond the full performance level or placed in supervisory or managerial positions.
  • (2) Chaplains appointed on a temporary basis prior to the effective date of the qualification standard may not have their temporary appointment extended, or be reappointed on a temporary or permanent basis, until they fully meet the basic requirements of the standard.
  • (3) Chaplains initially grandfathered into this occupation, who subsequently obtain education and/or certification that meets all the basic requirements of this qualification standard, must maintain the required credentials as a condition of employment in the occupation.
  • (4) Chaplains who were retained in this occupation, under this provision, and subsequently leave the occupation, lose protected status and must meet the full VA qualification standard requirements in effect at the time of reentry to the occupation.
  • English Language Proficiency: Chaplains must be proficient in spoken and written English to be appointed as authorized by 38 U.S.C. 7403(f)
Grade Determinations:GS-12
  • Experience: One year of experience at the next lower level (GS11).

AND
  • Specialty Certification. Specialty certification is demonstrated advanced practice and/or specialization in chaplaincy beyond the board certification and is required for the GS-12 grade level. Specialty certification from a professional chaplain certifying body that is directly related to the assignment is qualifying for a senior chaplain assignment.
AND
Applicant must meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) listed below.
  • Ability to apply relevant theories and methodologies to their ministry specialty.
  • Ability to integrate specialized psychological and sociological theory with an advanced approach to spiritual care.
  • Skill to seek out primary research and research literature that informs the ministry specialty and one's spiritual care practice.
  • Skill in developing and implementing methods for measuring effectiveness of chaplain practice and services in the specialty area, utilizing outcome evaluations to improve treatment services and to design system changes.
  • Ability to mediate conflict, hold various emotions and diffuse moral distress among staff and complex crisis situations.
  • Ability to provide specialized consultation, teaching and mentoring to colleagues and students on advanced spiritual care interventions in the service delivery area.
  • Ability to apply advanced clinical knowledge to write policies, procedures and/or practice guidelines pertaining to the service delivery area.
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
Preferred Experience: Chaplain w/ VA Experience
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is a GS-12.
Physical Requirements: This position requires the Chaplain to meaningfully engage with Veteran patients and family members by walking and moving within the healthcare setting or with the incumbent using an assistive device. The Chaplain is required to speak, hear (hearing aid permitted) and work closely with others.Education:Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER

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