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Va Chaplain Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

56M Chaplain Assistant

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$200 - $250/wk

A Chaplain Assistant provides vital support to Army National Guard Chaplains, who are responsible ... VA home loans * Bonuses, if applicable * Most non-prior service candidates will earn between $200 ...

Va Chaplain information

See Delaware salary details

$29K

$63.6K

$98.1K

How much do va chaplain jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for va chaplain in Delaware is $63,641.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $80,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chaplain do at the VA?

A VA chaplain provides spiritual support, counseling, and religious services to veterans and their families. They offer emotional care, facilitate religious ceremonies, and assist with coping strategies, often working in a hospital or clinical setting and holding relevant certifications or ordinations.

What are some common challenges VA Chaplains face when supporting veterans and their families?

VA Chaplains often encounter the challenge of providing spiritual and emotional support to veterans from diverse backgrounds, many of whom may be coping with trauma, grief, or moral injury. Balancing the unique needs and beliefs of each individual while maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment is essential. Additionally, chaplains frequently collaborate with mental health professionals and medical staff to ensure holistic care, which requires strong communication and teamwork skills. Adapting to the emotional demands of the role and managing personal well-being are also important aspects of the job.

How do you become a VA chaplain?

To become a VA chaplain, candidates typically need a master's degree in divinity or theology, ordination or commissioning by a recognized religious organization, and clinical pastoral education (CPE) training. Veterans Affairs often require certification from the Association of Professional Chaplains or similar bodies and relevant experience in pastoral care, with some positions requiring security clearances and adherence to VA employment standards.

What are VA Chaplains?

VA Chaplains are professional spiritual care providers who work within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers and facilities. They offer emotional, spiritual, and religious support to veterans, their families, and VA staff, regardless of religious affiliation or beliefs. VA Chaplains provide counseling, conduct religious services, and support patients facing illness, trauma, or end-of-life issues. They play a key role in holistic care by addressing the spiritual needs of veterans as part of the overall healthcare team.

What is the difference between Va Chaplain vs Va Social Worker?

AspectVa ChaplainVa Social Worker
Required CredentialsReligious ordination, chaplain certification, sometimes a master's in theology or divinityMaster's in social work (MSW), state licensure, clinical social work certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, VA medical centers, military bases, spiritual care settingsHospitals, VA facilities, community agencies, mental health clinics
Employer & Industry UsageVeterans Affairs, religious organizations, military healthcareVeterans Affairs, healthcare providers, social service agencies

While both roles serve veterans within the VA system, Va Chaplains focus on spiritual support and religious care, requiring ordination and theological training. Va Social Workers provide mental health and social support, requiring social work degrees and licensure. Their work environments often overlap, but their primary functions differ based on training and scope of practice.

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

To thrive as a VA Chaplain, you need a master’s degree in divinity or a related field, ordination or endorsement from a recognized faith group, and experience in pastoral care. Familiarity with electronic medical record systems and knowledge of hospital protocols are often required. Compassion, strong listening skills, and cultural sensitivity are essential soft skills for supporting veterans from diverse backgrounds. These competencies are vital for providing effective spiritual care, emotional support, and ethical guidance within the unique environment of VA healthcare facilities.

Where do chaplains get paid the most?

Chaplain salaries tend to be highest in regions with a higher cost of living and larger healthcare or military institutions, such as major metropolitan areas or military bases. Federal government positions and large hospital systems often offer higher pay compared to smaller organizations or community settings. Experience, certifications, and the specific sector also influence salary levels for chaplains.

Can I be a chaplain without being ordained?

Va Chaplains typically are required to be ordained or credentialed by their religious organization, as ordination demonstrates the necessary spiritual authority and training. However, some chaplain roles may accept non-ordained individuals if they have relevant experience, certifications, or specialized training, depending on the employer's requirements. It is important to review specific job postings for their particular qualifications and credentialing standards.
What are popular job titles related to Va Chaplain jobs in Delaware? For Va Chaplain jobs in Delaware, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Va Chaplain jobs in Delaware look for? The top searched job categories for Va Chaplain jobs in Delaware are:
What cities in Delaware are hiring for Va Chaplain jobs? Cities in Delaware with the most Va Chaplain job openings:
Infographic showing various Va Chaplain job openings in Delaware as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $63,641 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

56M Chaplain Assistant

National Guard OMD

Wilmington, DE • On-site

$200 - $250/wk

Part-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Description
A Chaplain Assistant provides vital support to Army National Guard Chaplains, who are responsible for providing spiritual guidance and support to Soldiers.
As a Chaplain Assistant you will primarily provide support to the Unit Ministry Team programs and worship services. Some specific duties include: coordinating Unit Ministry Team activities; maintaining physical security of Unit Ministry Team facilities/equipment; safeguarding privileged communications and offerings; arranging religious retreats and memorial ceremonies; supporting the Unit Ministry Team readiness program; and maintaining Chaplain vestments and religious items.
Job Duties
• Operate communication equipment and digital reporting systems
• Assist in planning religious support operations and deployments
• Maintain reports, files, and administrative data for religious operations
• Conduct specialized peer counseling for combat stress casualties
Helpful Skills
• Interest in organization and keeping accurate records
• Experience operating typewriters, computers, and other office machines
• Ability to organize and plan
Plus, you'll be building a better future. In civilian life, the skills learned as a Chaplain Assistant can be applied to similar positions assisting clergy members in churches, synagogues, or mosques.
Earn While You Learn
Instead of paying to learn these skills, get paid to train. In the Army National Guard, you will learn these valuable job skills while earning a regular paycheck and qualifying for tuition assistance.
Job training for Chaplains Assistants requires 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you'll learn basic Soldiering skills, and seven weeks of Advanced Individual Training, where you will learn the roles and responsibilities of Army Chaplains, as well as religious history and background.
Benefits/Requirements
Benefits
  • Paid training
  • A monthly paycheck
  • Montgomery GI Bill
  • Federal and State tuition assistance
  • Retirement benefits for part-time service
  • Low-cost life insurance (up to $400,000 in coverage)
  • 401(k)-type savings plan
  • Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000, for existing loans)
  • Health care benefits available
  • VA home loans
  • Bonuses, if applicable
  • Most non-prior service candidates will earn between $200 and $250 per drill weekend, subject to change

Requirements
  • Military enlistment in the Army National Guard
  • Must be at least a junior in high school, or have a high school diploma or a GED certificate
  • Must be between the ages of 17 and 35
  • Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards
  • Must meet citizenship requirements (see NATIONALGUARD.com for details)

Requires military enlistment. Programs and benefits are subject to change. Ask your Army National Guard recruiter for the most up-to-date information. Actual MOS assignment may depend on MOS availability.
Other Job Information
Job ID: 1069
ZIP Code: 19804
Job Category: Admin and Relations
Age Requirements: Must be between the ages of 17 and 35 administrative administrator secretary clerical clerk