Staff Chaplain Jobs
Staff Chaplain jobs are open across hospitals, correctional facilities, military installations, universities, and corporate settings, from entry-level chaplain resident to senior staff and lead chaplain, with specializations in clinical pastoral care, crisis intervention, and interfaith ministry. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Summary
The Oklahoma City VA Health Care System is recruiting a Chaplain Clinical Pastoral Educator to provide senior-level clinical pastoral education and comprehensive religious, spiritual, and pastoral care to Veterans, families, caregivers, and staff across inpatient, outpatient, and residential settings. The position integrates spiritual care into health and wellness services and supports individualized, voluntary care.
Learn more about this agency
This job is open to
The public
Clarification from the agency
Open to all U.S. Citizens. NOTE: The 2-page Resume requirement does not apply to this position.
Duties
Certified Chaplain and CPE Educator Duties
- Provide comprehensive religious and spiritual care to Veterans, families, caregivers, and staff based on their individual needs.
- Provide at least 35% direct patient care, including supervision of students during patient care.
- Offer pastoral counseling to patients facing complex ethical, moral, emotional, or spiritual concerns.
- Support life review, oral history, advance care planning, end-of-life preparation, and expression of personal values.
- Conduct or arrange worship services, prayers, rituals, Bible studies, religious education, and other individual or group activities.
- Respect and address the needs of people from diverse faiths, denominations, and belief systems.
- Identify and coordinate with community clergy, faith leaders, and other resources when patients need services outside the Chaplain's role or expertise.
- Document chaplaincy services in the electronic health record using an approved template or SOAP note format.
- Serve as a senior spiritual-care resource, advisor, and liaison for Veterans, students, caregivers, staff, and healthcare professionals.
- Provide consultation, education, mentoring, and training on spiritual care and referrals for patients with complex spiritual needs.
- Support staff wellness and resiliency through emotional and spiritual care, education, and compassionate presence.
- Participate as a recognized member of interdisciplinary treatment teams.
- Collaborate with physicians, nurses, psychologists, social workers, therapists, and other professionals to support comprehensive patient care.
- Provide chaplain-related input during treatment-team conferences and program reviews.
- Maintain effective working relationships with facility staff, families, community organizations, seminaries, clergy, and other stakeholders.
- Train and support volunteers who provide services to Veterans.
- Manage the daily operations of the Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Center.
- Develop, implement, and update CPE policies, procedures, curricula, and practice guidelines.
- Educate and supervise CPE students at all levels.
- Recruit, interview, and select students for the CPE program.
- Assess student strengths and needs, develop educational plans, supervise clinical work, and evaluate performance.
- Provide students with supervised clinical experience in spiritual care for hospitalized patients.
- Develop measurable, outcome-based, and evidence-informed curricula aligned with board-certification competencies.
- Develop internship programs and supervise interns.
- Coordinate clinical preceptors, Advisory Group members, Office of Academic Affiliations staff, seminaries, and other educational partners.
- Obtain approval for allied-health trainee positions through the Office of Academic Affiliations.
- Maintain accreditation records, educator evaluations, student files, center portfolios, contracts, reports, policies, and educational resources.
- Ensure required documentation and reports are completed and submitted on time.
- Monitor program effectiveness and use evaluations, research, and best practices to improve educational services.
- Measure educational outcomes and implement changes when needed.
- Participate in accredited CPE professional organizations, national events, and communities of practice.
- Serve as a liaison to seminaries, ordained persons, and other CPE partners.
- Provide guidance and consultation to Chaplain Service leaders, other chaplains, students, healthcare staff, and stakeholders.
- Lead orientations, coaching, in-service training, staff development, and continuing-education activities.
- Complete complex educational projects, reports, task groups, and assignments for Chaplain Service leadership.
- Develop and implement programs that support student development, staff wellness, and professional growth.
- Plan schedules with other chaplains to maintain service coverage.
- Maintain program supplies, religious equipment, educational materials, and operating records.
- Track and manage the program budget.
- Develop and implement Chaplain Service programs and curricula independently.
- Communicate clearly in writing and verbally with people from varied backgrounds.
- Prepare professional policies, procedures, guidelines, reports, and accreditation materials.
- Maintain current knowledge of pastoral education, CPE standards, professional ethics, research, behavioral sciences, healthcare practices, and diverse religious traditions.
- Apply knowledge of clinical terminology, human behavior, and other healthcare disciplines to spiritual care and education.
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; negotiable
Compressed/Flexible:Yes
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 512480
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: May be Authorized for a Highly Qualified Candidate
Requirements
Conditions of employment
- You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
- Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Subject to background/security investigation.
- Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment.
- Must pass pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
- Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement.
- your performance and conduct;
- the needs and interests of the agency;
- whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
- whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.
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. To qualify for appointment to this position, all applicants must meet the following requirements:
Citizenship. Applicants must be citizens of the United States (U.S.). A non-citizen may be appointed only when it is not possible to recruit qualified U.S. citizens, as allowed under 38 U.S.C. § 7407(a).
Education. Applicants must have a Master of Divinity degree or equivalent education. The equivalent education must be a graduate-level theological degree from a college, university, or theological school that:
- Is accredited by an organization that is a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the Association of Theological Schools (ATS); and
- Is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Ecclesiastical Endorsement. Under 38 C.F.R. § 17.655, an ecclesiastical endorsement is a condition of employment as a VA chaplain. To work as a VA chaplain, an individual must have and maintain a full and active ecclesiastical endorsement.
Applicants must have an ecclesiastical endorsement dated within the past 12 months.
The endorsement must come from the official national endorsing authority of the applicant's or employee's faith group or denomination.
An ecclesiastical endorsement is an official written statement from the national endorsing body of the faith group or denomination. The statement must:
- Confirm that the applicant is in good standing with the applicant's faith group or denomination; and
- State that, in the opinion of the endorsing body, the individual is qualified to provide the full range of ministry required in VA's pluralistic setting.
The National Chaplain Service maintains a list of approved endorsing organizations. The list can be found on the National VA Chaplain Service SharePoint.
Board Certification.
(1) Certification. Applicants must be Board-Certified Chaplains certified by BCCI® or by a U.S. certifying organization that has a reciprocity agreement with BCCI®.
Board certification that requires four units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) meets this requirement.
The National Chaplain Service maintains a list of approved certifications on the National VA Chaplain Service SharePoint.
NOTE: Provisional, Associate, or any other status as a candidate for board certification does not meet the board-certification requirement for the FPL GS-11 level or above.
Foreign Education. To be creditable, education completed outside the U.S. must be submitted to a current affiliate agency of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) at https://www.naces.org/members and be deemed at least equivalent to that gained in a conventional U.S. program.
English Language Proficiency. Candidates must be able to speak and write English proficiently, as required by 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f).
GRADE DETERMINATIONS. In addition to the basic employment requirements, candidates must meet the following requirements for placement at the specified grade level.
Chaplain (Clinical Pastoral Educator), GS-12
(1) Experience. The candidate must have one year of qualifying experience equivalent to the next lower grade.
(2) Certification. Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Educators must be certified by an organization whose CPE training units are recognized by BCCI® or by a U.S. certifying organization that has a reciprocity agreement with BCCI®.
CPE Educators must be certified by the same accrediting organization as the CPE training program at the location where the position is being filled. This is required for the CPE training program to maintain its accreditation.
(3) Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs). In addition to the required experience, the candidate must demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:
(a) The ability to independently educate CPE students at all levels and to plan, organize, and implement the CPE program at all levels.
(b) The skill to follow all accreditation standards, processes, and practices. This includes, but is not limited to, submitting all required program reports, the center portfolio, fees, and dues in a timely and professional manner.
(c) The skill to communicate in writing and verbally in a clear, professional, organized, and connected manner.
(d) The ability to recruit, interview, and select students for the CPE program.
(e) Knowledge of professional ethics for certified educators and knowledge of the history of CPE.
(f) The ability to apply theoretical knowledge and demonstrate competence in administering and conducting CPE programs at all levels.
(g) Knowledge of new and developing trends and research in pastoral education.
(h) Knowledge of different conceptual frameworks for developing educational curricula.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
This vacancy is above the full performance level.
Physical Requirements: This position requires the Chaplain to meaningfully engage with Veterans and their family members while walking and moving throughout the health care setting. The Chaplain may also work with individuals who use assistive devices. The Chaplain must be able to speak, hear (hearing aids 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/.
Additional information
Receiving Service Credit for Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
Area of Consideration - Eligible applications will be reviewed and referred based on Veterans' Preference.
Required Documents
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
- Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Current Ecclesiastical Endorsement
- Current Board Certification
- Current ACPE Certified Educator Certification
- Transcript
Your resume or CV must include the following information for each position listed. We may be unable to determine your qualifications if any of this information is missing:
- Job title and duties
- Start and end dates, including the month and year (for example, June 2020 to April 2021)
- Full-time or part-time status, including hours worked per week
- Series and grade, if applicable
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
- Cover Letter
- DD-214/ Statement of Service
- Disability Letter (VA)
- Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Current Ecclesiastical Endorsement
- Current Board Certification
- Current ACPE Certified Educator Certification
- SF-15
- SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
- Transcript
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 11/23/2026 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13114043.
- To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
Agency contact information
921 Northeast 13th Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73104
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
Overview
For the Locality Pay Area of Rest of U.S.
- 0060 Chaplain
- Credentialing
- Suitability/Fitness
Summary
The Oklahoma City VA Health Care System is recruiting a Chaplain Clinical Pastoral Educator to provide senior-level clinical pastoral education and comprehensive religious, spiritual, and pastoral care to Veterans, families, caregivers, and staff across inpatient, outpatient, and residential settings. The position integrates spiritual care into health and wellness services and supports individualized, voluntary care.
Learn more about this agency
This job is open to
The public
Clarification from the agency
Open to all U.S. Citizens. NOTE: The 2-page Resume requirement does not apply to this position.
Duties
Certified Chaplain and CPE Educator Duties
- Provide comprehensive religious and spiritual care to Veterans, families, caregivers, and staff based on their individual needs.
- Provide at least 35% direct patient care, including supervision of students during patient care.
- Offer pastoral counseling to patients facing complex ethical, moral, emotional, or spiritual concerns.
- Support life review, oral history, advance care planning, end-of-life preparation, and expression of personal values.
- Conduct or arrange worship services, prayers, rituals, Bible studies, religious education, and other individual or group activities.
- Respect and address the needs of people from diverse faiths, denominations, and belief systems.
- Identify and coordinate with community clergy, faith leaders, and other resources when patients need services outside the Chaplain's role or expertise.
- Document chaplaincy services in the electronic health record using an approved template or SOAP note format.
- Serve as a senior spiritual-care resource, advisor, and liaison for Veterans, students, caregivers, staff, and healthcare professionals.
- Provide consultation, education, mentoring, and training on spiritual care and referrals for patients with complex spiritual needs.
- Support staff wellness and resiliency through emotional and spiritual care, education, and compassionate presence.
- Participate as a recognized member of interdisciplinary treatment teams.
- Collaborate with physicians, nurses, psychologists, social workers, therapists, and other professionals to support comprehensive patient care.
- Provide chaplain-related input during treatment-team conferences and program reviews.
- Maintain effective working relationships with facility staff, families, community organizations, seminaries, clergy, and other stakeholders.
- Train and support volunteers who provide services to Veterans.
- Manage the daily operations of the Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Center.
- Develop, implement, and update CPE policies, procedures, curricula, and practice guidelines.
- Educate and supervise CPE students at all levels.
- Recruit, interview, and select students for the CPE program.
- Assess student strengths and needs, develop educational plans, supervise clinical work, and evaluate performance.
- Provide students with supervised clinical experience in spiritual care for hospitalized patients.
- Develop measurable, outcome-based, and evidence-informed curricula aligned with board-certification competencies.
- Develop internship programs and supervise interns.
- Coordinate clinical preceptors, Advisory Group members, Office of Academic Affiliations staff, seminaries, and other educational partners.
- Obtain approval for allied-health trainee positions through the Office of Academic Affiliations.
- Maintain accreditation records, educator evaluations, student files, center portfolios, contracts, reports, policies, and educational resources.
- Ensure required documentation and reports are completed and submitted on time.
- Monitor program effectiveness and use evaluations, research, and best practices to improve educational services.
- Measure educational outcomes and implement changes when needed.
- Participate in accredited CPE professional organizations, national events, and communities of practice.
- Serve as a liaison to seminaries, ordained persons, and other CPE partners.
- Provide guidance and consultation to Chaplain Service leaders, other chaplains, students, healthcare staff, and stakeholders.
- Lead orientations, coaching, in-service training, staff development, and continuing-education activities.
- Complete complex educational projects, reports, task groups, and assignments for Chaplain Service leadership.
- Develop and implement programs that support student development, staff wellness, and professional growth.
- Plan schedules with other chaplains to maintain service coverage.
- Maintain program supplies, religious equipment, educational materials, and operating records.
- Track and manage the program budget.
- Develop and implement Chaplain Service programs and curricula independently.
- Communicate clearly in writing and verbally with people from varied backgrounds.
- Prepare professional policies, procedures, guidelines, reports, and accreditation materials.
- Maintain current knowledge of pastoral education, CPE standards, professional ethics, research, behavioral sciences, healthcare practices, and diverse religious traditions.
- Apply knowledge of clinical terminology, human behavior, and other healthcare disciplines to spiritual care and education.
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; negotiable
Compressed/Flexible:Yes
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 512480
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: May be Authorized for a Highly Qualified Candidate
Requirements
Conditions of employment
- You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
- Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Subject to background/security investigation.
- Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment.
- Must pass pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
- Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement.
- your performance and conduct;
- the needs and interests of the agency;
- whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
- whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.
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. To qualify for appointment to this position, all applicants must meet the following requirements:
Citizenship. Applicants must be citizens of the United States (U.S.). A non-citizen may be appointed only when it is not possible to recruit qualified U.S. citizens, as allowed under 38 U.S.C. § 7407(a).
Education. Applicants must have a Master of Divinity degree or equivalent education. The equivalent education must be a graduate-level theological degree from a college, university, or theological school that:
- Is accredited by an organization that is a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the Association of Theological Schools (ATS); and
- Is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Ecclesiastical Endorsement. Under 38 C.F.R. § 17.655, an ecclesiastical endorsement is a condition of employment as a VA chaplain. To work as a VA chaplain, an individual must have and maintain a full and active ecclesiastical endorsement.
Applicants must have an ecclesiastical endorsement dated within the past 12 months.
The endorsement must come from the official national endorsing authority of the applicant's or employee's faith group or denomination.
An ecclesiastical endorsement is an official written statement from the national endorsing body of the faith group or denomination. The statement must:
- Confirm that the applicant is in good standing with the applicant's faith group or denomination; and
- State that, in the opinion of the endorsing body, the individual is qualified to provide the full range of ministry required in VA's pluralistic setting.
The National Chaplain Service maintains a list of approved endorsing organizations. The list can be found on the National VA Chaplain Service SharePoint.
Board Certification.
(1) Certification. Applicants must be Board-Certified Chaplains certified by BCCI® or by a U.S. certifying organization that has a reciprocity agreement with BCCI®.
Board certification that requires four units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) meets this requirement.
The National Chaplain Service maintains a list of approved certifications on the National VA Chaplain Service SharePoint.
NOTE: Provisional, Associate, or any other status as a candidate for board certification does not meet the board-certification requirement for the FPL GS-11 level or above.
Foreign Education. To be creditable, education completed outside the U.S. must be submitted to a current affiliate agency of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) at https://www.naces.org/members and be deemed at least equivalent to that gained in a conventional U.S. program.
English Language Proficiency. Candidates must be able to speak and write English proficiently, as required by 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f).
GRADE DETERMINATIONS. In addition to the basic employment requirements, candidates must meet the following requirements for placement at the specified grade level.
Chaplain (Clinical Pastoral Educator), GS-12
(1) Experience. The candidate must have one year of qualifying experience equivalent to the next lower grade.
(2) Certification. Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Educators must be certified by an organization whose CPE training units are recognized by BCCI® or by a U.S. certifying organization that has a reciprocity agreement with BCCI®.
CPE Educators must be certified by the same accrediting organization as the CPE training program at the location where the position is being filled. This is required for the CPE training program to maintain its accreditation.
(3) Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs). In addition to the required experience, the candidate must demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:
(a) The ability to independently educate CPE students at all levels and to plan, organize, and implement the CPE program at all levels.
(b) The skill to follow all accreditation standards, processes, and practices. This includes, but is not limited to, submitting all required program reports, the center portfolio, fees, and dues in a timely and professional manner.
(c) The skill to communicate in writing and verbally in a clear, professional, organized, and connected manner.
(d) The ability to recruit, interview, and select students for the CPE program.
(e) Knowledge of professional ethics for certified educators and knowledge of the history of CPE.
(f) The ability to apply theoretical knowledge and demonstrate competence in administering and conducting CPE programs at all levels.
(g) Knowledge of new and developing trends and research in pastoral education.
(h) Knowledge of different conceptual frameworks for developing educational curricula.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
This vacancy is above the full performance level.
Physical Requirements: This position requires the Chaplain to meaningfully engage with Veterans and their family members while walking and moving throughout the health care setting. The Chaplain may also work with individuals who use assistive devices. The Chaplain must be able to speak, hear (hearing aids 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/.
Additional information
Receiving Service Credit for Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
Area of Consideration - Eligible applications will be reviewed and referred based on Veterans' Preference.
Required Documents
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
- Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Current Ecclesiastical Endorsement
- Current Board Certification
- Current ACPE Certified Educator Certification
- Transcript
Your resume or CV must include the following information for each position listed. We may be unable to determine your qualifications if any of this information is missing:
- Job title and duties
- Start and end dates, including the month and year (for example, June 2020 to April 2021)
- Full-time or part-time status, including hours worked per week
- Series and grade, if applicable
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
- Cover Letter
- DD-214/ Statement of Service
- Disability Letter (VA)
- Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Current Ecclesiastical Endorsement
- Current Board Certification
- Current ACPE Certified Educator Certification
- SF-15
- SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
- Transcript
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 11/23/2026 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13114043.
- To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
Agency contact information
921 Northeast 13th Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73104
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
Overview
For the Locality Pay Area of Rest of U.S.
- 0060 Chaplain
- Credentialing
- Suitability/Fitness
See All 24 Staff Chaplain Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Staff Chaplain JobsStaff Chaplain Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in staff chaplain jobs.
- Master of Divinity or equivalent graduate theological degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum of one unit of ACPE-accredited Clinical Pastoral Education completed
- Ecclesiastical endorsement from a recognized faith tradition or denomination
- Board certification or eligibility through the Association of Professional Chaplains or equivalent body
- Experience providing interfaith and non-denominational pastoral care to diverse populations
- Ability to pass background checks and, in some settings, obtain a security clearance
Tips for Your Staff Chaplain Job Search
Tailor your resume to the setting
Hospital chaplain roles prioritize clinical pastoral education units and trauma experience, while correctional and military settings weight security clearance and crisis de-escalation. Match your resume's language to the specific environment you're targeting, not to chaplaincy in general.
List your endorsing body prominently
Many employers require ecclesiastical endorsement from a recognized faith body before they'll extend an interview. Put your endorsing organization and denomination near the top of your resume so hiring managers don't have to hunt for it.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists staff chaplain openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Get your CPE units documented clearly
Employers often specify a minimum number of Clinical Pastoral Education units accredited by ACPE. Confirm you list your units, the accrediting body, and the institution where you completed them so your application clears the initial screening without questions.
Prepare a pastoral care philosophy statement
Many staff chaplain interviews include a written or verbal request for your care philosophy. Draft a focused one-page statement before you apply so you're not writing it under deadline pressure after you land an interview.
Follow up with concrete care examples
After an interview, send a brief note that references one specific scenario you discussed and connects it to the organization's mission or population. Generic thank-you emails rarely move chaplain candidates forward in multi-stage processes.
Staff Chaplain Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most staff chaplains?
The most active employers for staff chaplains right now are VitalCaring, Newport Hospice, and Norton Healthcare, and the most openings are in Florida, Texas, and Oklahoma, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Health systems and correctional agencies consistently represent a large share of active postings.
How many staff chaplain jobs are remote?
About 0% of staff chaplain openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting the hands-on nature of pastoral care in most settings. The sub-areas most likely to offer remote or hybrid arrangements are corporate employee wellness programs and telehealth-adjacent chaplaincy services, where direct bedside presence is not required.
How do you become a staff chaplain?
Start by earning a master's degree in divinity, theology, or a related field from an accredited institution. Complete at least one unit of Clinical Pastoral Education through an ACPE-accredited program. Secure ecclesiastical endorsement from your faith tradition, then pursue board certification through a professional chaplaincy organization. Many employers require certification before hire, so beginning that process early gives you a clear advantage in competitive applicant pools.
Can you get hired as a staff chaplain with little experience?
Entry-level staff chaplain roles and chaplain residency programs are specifically designed for candidates finishing their CPE units or theological degree. Focus your search on residency and fellowship postings at large hospital systems or correctional facilities, which are built to train newer chaplains. Highlighting field education placements, supervised ministry hours, and any crisis-line or volunteer pastoral work strengthens an application even without full professional experience.
What does the staff chaplain interview process look like?
Most staff chaplain interviews begin with an HR phone screen followed by a panel interview that includes department leadership, a clinical or program director, and sometimes a peer chaplain. Candidates are frequently asked to describe a specific pastoral encounter and reflect on their theological approach to care. Some employers, particularly hospitals, include a brief written response or observed clinical scenario before a final offer is made.
Where can I find and apply to staff chaplain jobs?
You can find and apply to staff chaplain jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States. Search the listings to find roles that match your setting preference, CPE background, and endorsement status, then apply directly to each listing that fits.
See All 24 Staff Chaplain Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Staff Chaplain Jobs