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Va Chaplain Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

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Va Chaplain information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$30K

$65.7K

$101.2K

How much do va chaplain jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for va chaplain in Silver Spring, MD is $65,687.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,100.00 and $82,600.00 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.
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What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Va Chaplain jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Va Chaplain job openings:
Va Chaplain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Va Chaplain job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,687 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Chaplain Hospice

Chaplain Hospice

The Medical Team, Inc.

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time, Part-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description
Job Description
The Medical Team is seeking a Chaplain for Hospice to work with our geriatric population in their homes within Northern Virginia. The Chaplain will work in conjunction with the interdisciplinary team to administer a program of grief counseling and support services for survivors of patients served by hospice and the community at large.
THE MEDICAL TEAM is a top-ranked healthcare services company, in business for 47 years under the same ownership and management. We provide a wide range of home health, hospice, private duty, catastrophic care, and personal care services.
Responsibilities
  • Conducts bereavement assessments, develops plans of care in conjunction with the IDT and documents all bereavement activities.
  • Designs and distributes materials to families eligible for and/or receiving bereavement services.
  • Develops educational programs for families and staff on loss, grief, and related topics. Provide consultation to interdisciplinary team members about bereavement counseling.
  • Participates in community and volunteer education programs.
  • Evaluates the bereavement program and services on a quarterly and annual basis. Participates in the QAPI program.
  • Prepares service reports as requested by management. Maintains continuing education through academic studies, seminars, and workshops.
  • Attends and participates in in-services, staff meetings and case conferences.
  • Completes all documentation in an accurate and legible manner. Complies with hospice policies and procedures, laws and regulations and standards of practice.

Job Type: Part-time/PRN/FT
Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Referral program
  • Tuition reimbursement

Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

Experience:
  • Chaplaincy: 1 year

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:
  • Reston, VA 20191 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:
  • Reston, VA 20191: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

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