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Va Chaplain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ladgov Corporation

Piano/Organ Player

San Diego, CA · On-site

VA San Diego Healthcare System Chapel, 3350 La Jolla Village Drive, San Diego, CA 92161 Key ... Coordinate musical selections with the Chaplain or designated worship leader. * Arrive at scheduled ...

Ladgov Corporation

Piano/Organ Player

San Diego, CA · On-site

VA San Diego Healthcare System Chapel, 3350 La Jolla Village Drive, San Diego, CA 92161 Key ... Coordinate musical selections with the Chaplain or designated worship leader. * Arrive at scheduled ...

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How much do va chaplain jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for va chaplain in the United States is $63,587.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $80,000.00 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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Va Chaplain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Va Chaplain job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,587 per year, or $30.6 per hour.
Part-Time Bilingual Spanish Speaking Chaplain

Part-Time Bilingual Spanish Speaking Chaplain

Corporate Chaplains of America

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 13 hours ago

Job description

Title: Bilingual Part Time Chaplain (5-10 hours per week)

Location: Charlottesville, VA

USD 21.15 - USD 25.00 Per Hour [Employer Est.]

Be part of caring for employees working for businesses nationwide every week. CCA brings care and compassion to the workplace, where it is needed most, and where it can make a meaningful difference.


  • Throughout CCA, promote the importance of a missionary mindset by building caring relationships with all assigned employees.
  • Follow the CCA Team Member Handbook and other training materials.
  • Provide on-call support to assigned employees and owners.
  • Strive to build and maintain clear two-way communication and trust throughout CCA and with companies served..
  • Display and promote a team player attitude with fellow chaplains and managers.
  • Comply with requests and direction from a senior CCA leaders.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Minimum of 5-7 years of full time secular workplace experience. A business degree can reduce this requirement. (Church work time does not count as workplace experience.)
  • Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Biblical Studies from an accredited college or university, Master of Divinity (preferred).
  • Required technology skills include ability to use a computer and software (such as Word & Excel), Internet, and cell phone.
  • Ability to serve employees going through sensitive personal and professional crisis.
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

    CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS, PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORKING CONDITIONS

    • Denominational Ordination (optional)
    • Appropriate State Driver's License

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