Find your calling at Mercy! Responding to the healing mission of Jesus and the tradition of Catherine McAuley to serve the poor and sick person, we participate in meeting the health needs of the community. Pastoral Services assists the patient, family, and personnel in meeting their spiritual, social, and emotional needs during a time of illness, injury or stress and will minister to all persons, regardless of their belief system. Performs duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards. Position Details: Eligible for certification or in process to become Board Certified Chaplain Education: Masters-level work in Theology, Ministry, Counseling, Divinity or equivalence in related field. F our units of CPE recognized by Association of Professional Chaplains (APC) or National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC). Experience: One year of health care chaplaincy experience (may include CPE experience). Certifications: Certification as a Board-Certified Chaplain (see worksheet Guide to Determining Applicable CPE & Certification Programs for New Chaplain Hires). Other: - Compassion and respect for the dignity of each person. - Good communication and listening skills. - Ability to minister to the whole person with an emphasis on the spiritual. - Ability to be self-reflective about work. - Responds with respect, graciousness, kindness and spiritual comfort. - Ability to work independently in the context of a strong pastoral team and in cooperation with the interdisciplinary clinical team to provide quality services resulting in high patient satisfaction. - Able to work in emotional and stressful situations. - Advocates for patient, family member or co-worker when the need arises. - Uses computer systems, pagers, and telephone systems effectively. - Ability to work in crisis and trauma situations and situations with multiple priorities. - Able to be a self-starter, work with high degree of initiative. Preferred Experience: Depending on local needs, any of the following could be preferred for a Chaplain II: Experience with specialty area, three (3) years of chaplain experience, presenting to physicians/other clinicians. Preferred Certifications: Board Certified Chaplain (BCC) by APC or NACC. Preferred Other: - Where needed, language skills or experience with specific patient groups served. - Sensitivity to and respect for various religions. - Knowledge in areas of pastoral theology, medical ethics, spirituality, death and dying, and crisis intervention. - Is a career ladder candidate. Why Mercy? From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period. Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.
03/26/2026
Full time
Find your calling at Mercy! Responding to the healing mission of Jesus and the tradition of Catherine McAuley to serve the poor and sick person, we participate in meeting the health needs of the community. Pastoral Services assists the patient, family, and personnel in meeting their spiritual, social, and emotional needs during a time of illness, injury or stress and will minister to all persons, regardless of their belief system. Performs duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards. Position Details: Eligible for certification or in process to become Board Certified Chaplain Education: Masters-level work in Theology, Ministry, Counseling, Divinity or equivalence in related field. F our units of CPE recognized by Association of Professional Chaplains (APC) or National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC). Experience: One year of health care chaplaincy experience (may include CPE experience). Certifications: Certification as a Board-Certified Chaplain (see worksheet Guide to Determining Applicable CPE & Certification Programs for New Chaplain Hires). Other: - Compassion and respect for the dignity of each person. - Good communication and listening skills. - Ability to minister to the whole person with an emphasis on the spiritual. - Ability to be self-reflective about work. - Responds with respect, graciousness, kindness and spiritual comfort. - Ability to work independently in the context of a strong pastoral team and in cooperation with the interdisciplinary clinical team to provide quality services resulting in high patient satisfaction. - Able to work in emotional and stressful situations. - Advocates for patient, family member or co-worker when the need arises. - Uses computer systems, pagers, and telephone systems effectively. - Ability to work in crisis and trauma situations and situations with multiple priorities. - Able to be a self-starter, work with high degree of initiative. Preferred Experience: Depending on local needs, any of the following could be preferred for a Chaplain II: Experience with specialty area, three (3) years of chaplain experience, presenting to physicians/other clinicians. Preferred Certifications: Board Certified Chaplain (BCC) by APC or NACC. Preferred Other: - Where needed, language skills or experience with specific patient groups served. - Sensitivity to and respect for various religions. - Knowledge in areas of pastoral theology, medical ethics, spirituality, death and dying, and crisis intervention. - Is a career ladder candidate. Why Mercy? From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period. Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.
Find your calling at Mercy! Position Details: Education: Bachelor's Degree in Theology, Ministry, Divinity, or related field; or equivalent education and experience in lieu of the degree in addition to the required experience. One unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (see worksheet Guide to Determining Applicable CPE & Certification Programs for New Chaplain Hires) or equivalent experience (see worksheet Guide to Determining Applicable Work Experience for New Chaplain Hires). If equivalent experience, the candidate has up to one year to complete the unit. Licensure: None. Experience: Experience in visiting the sick in a ministry capacity. Certifications: In good standing with community and endorsed or eligible for endorsement by faith community. Other: - Compassion and respect for the dignity of each person. - Good communication and listening skills. - Ability to minister to the whole person with an emphasis on the spiritual. - Ability to be self-reflective about work. - Responds with respect, graciousness, kindness and spiritual comfort. - Ability to work independently in the context of a strong pastoral team and in cooperation with the interdisciplinary clinical team to provide quality services resulting in high patient satisfaction. - Able to work in emotional and stressful situations. - Advocates for patient, family member or co-worker when the need arises. - Uses computer systems, pagers, and telephone systems effectively. Preferred Education: Some Master's level work in Theology, Ministry, Counseling, Divinity or related field. Two units of CPE. Preferred Licensure: None. Preferred Experience: Current healthcare or military chaplaincy experience. Preferred Certifications: None. Preferred Other: - Where needed, language skills or experience with specific patient groups served. - Sensitivity to and respect for various religions. - Knowledge in areas of pastoral theology, medical ethics, spirituality, death and dying, and crisis intervention. - Is a career ladder candidate. Why Mercy? From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period. Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us. keyword(s): Chaplain Chaplain
03/26/2026
Full time
Find your calling at Mercy! Position Details: Education: Bachelor's Degree in Theology, Ministry, Divinity, or related field; or equivalent education and experience in lieu of the degree in addition to the required experience. One unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (see worksheet Guide to Determining Applicable CPE & Certification Programs for New Chaplain Hires) or equivalent experience (see worksheet Guide to Determining Applicable Work Experience for New Chaplain Hires). If equivalent experience, the candidate has up to one year to complete the unit. Licensure: None. Experience: Experience in visiting the sick in a ministry capacity. Certifications: In good standing with community and endorsed or eligible for endorsement by faith community. Other: - Compassion and respect for the dignity of each person. - Good communication and listening skills. - Ability to minister to the whole person with an emphasis on the spiritual. - Ability to be self-reflective about work. - Responds with respect, graciousness, kindness and spiritual comfort. - Ability to work independently in the context of a strong pastoral team and in cooperation with the interdisciplinary clinical team to provide quality services resulting in high patient satisfaction. - Able to work in emotional and stressful situations. - Advocates for patient, family member or co-worker when the need arises. - Uses computer systems, pagers, and telephone systems effectively. Preferred Education: Some Master's level work in Theology, Ministry, Counseling, Divinity or related field. Two units of CPE. Preferred Licensure: None. Preferred Experience: Current healthcare or military chaplaincy experience. Preferred Certifications: None. Preferred Other: - Where needed, language skills or experience with specific patient groups served. - Sensitivity to and respect for various religions. - Knowledge in areas of pastoral theology, medical ethics, spirituality, death and dying, and crisis intervention. - Is a career ladder candidate. Why Mercy? From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period. Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us. keyword(s): Chaplain Chaplain
Find your calling at Mercy! Responding to the healing mission of Jesus and the tradition of Catherine McAuley to serve the poor and sick person, we participate in meeting the health needs of the community. Pastoral Services assists the patient, family, and personnel in meeting their spiritual, social, and emotional needs during a time of illness, injury or stress and will minister to all persons, regardless of their belief system. Performs duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards. Position Details: PRN - Located in Lebanon, Missouri Education: - Bachelor's Degree in Theology, Ministry, Divinity or related field. - One unit of Clinical Pastoral Education. - If equivalent experience, the candidate has up to one year to complete the unit. Experience: Experience in visiting the sick in a ministry capacity. Certifications: In good standing with community and endorsed or eligible for endorsement by faith community. Other: - Compassion and respect for the dignity of each person. - Good communication and listening skills. - Ability to minister to the whole person with an emphasis on the spiritual. - Ability to be self-reflective about work. - Responds with respect, graciousness, kindness and spiritual comfort. - Ability to work independently in the context of a strong pastoral team and in cooperation with the interdisciplinary clinical team to provide quality services resulting in high patient satisfaction. - Able to work in emotional and stressful situations. - Advocates for patient, family member or co-worker when the need arises. - Uses computer systems, pagers, and telephone systems effectively. Preferred Education: - Some Master's level work in Theology, Ministry, Counseling, Divinity or related field. - Two units of CPE. Preferred Experience: Current healthcare or military chaplaincy experience. Preferred Other: - Where needed, language skills or experience with specific patient groups served. - Sensitivity to and respect for various religions. - Knowledge in areas of pastoral theology, medical ethics, spirituality, death and dying, and crisis intervention. - Is a career ladder candidate. Why Mercy? From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period. Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.
03/26/2026
Full time
Find your calling at Mercy! Responding to the healing mission of Jesus and the tradition of Catherine McAuley to serve the poor and sick person, we participate in meeting the health needs of the community. Pastoral Services assists the patient, family, and personnel in meeting their spiritual, social, and emotional needs during a time of illness, injury or stress and will minister to all persons, regardless of their belief system. Performs duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards. Position Details: PRN - Located in Lebanon, Missouri Education: - Bachelor's Degree in Theology, Ministry, Divinity or related field. - One unit of Clinical Pastoral Education. - If equivalent experience, the candidate has up to one year to complete the unit. Experience: Experience in visiting the sick in a ministry capacity. Certifications: In good standing with community and endorsed or eligible for endorsement by faith community. Other: - Compassion and respect for the dignity of each person. - Good communication and listening skills. - Ability to minister to the whole person with an emphasis on the spiritual. - Ability to be self-reflective about work. - Responds with respect, graciousness, kindness and spiritual comfort. - Ability to work independently in the context of a strong pastoral team and in cooperation with the interdisciplinary clinical team to provide quality services resulting in high patient satisfaction. - Able to work in emotional and stressful situations. - Advocates for patient, family member or co-worker when the need arises. - Uses computer systems, pagers, and telephone systems effectively. Preferred Education: - Some Master's level work in Theology, Ministry, Counseling, Divinity or related field. - Two units of CPE. Preferred Experience: Current healthcare or military chaplaincy experience. Preferred Other: - Where needed, language skills or experience with specific patient groups served. - Sensitivity to and respect for various religions. - Knowledge in areas of pastoral theology, medical ethics, spirituality, death and dying, and crisis intervention. - Is a career ladder candidate. Why Mercy? From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period. Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.
Find your calling at Mercy! Responding to the healing mission of Jesus and the tradition of Catherine McAuley to serve the poor and sick person, we participate in meeting the health needs of the community. Pastoral Services assists the patient, family, and personnel in meeting their spiritual, social, and emotional needs during a time of illness, injury or stress and will minister to all persons, regardless of their belief system. Performs duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards. Position Details: Education: Bachelor's Degree in Theology, Ministry, Divinity, or related field; or equivalent education and experience in lieu of the degree in addition to the required experience. One unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (see worksheet Guide to Determining Applicable CPE & Certification Programs for New Chaplain Hires) or equivalent experience (see worksheet Guide to Determining Applicable Work Experience for New Chaplain Hires). If equivalent experience, the candidate has up to one year to complete the unit. Licensure: None. Experience: Experience in visiting the sick in a ministry capacity. Certifications: In good standing with community and endorsed or eligible for endorsement by faith community. Other: - Compassion and respect for the dignity of each person. - Good communication and listening skills. - Ability to minister to the whole person with an emphasis on the spiritual. - Ability to be self-reflective about work. - Responds with respect, graciousness, kindness and spiritual comfort. - Ability to work independently in the context of a strong pastoral team and in cooperation with the interdisciplinary clinical team to provide quality services resulting in high patient satisfaction. - Able to work in emotional and stressful situations. - Advocates for patient, family member or co-worker when the need arises. - Uses computer systems, pagers, and telephone systems effectively. Preferred Education: Some Master's level work in Theology, Ministry, Counseling, Divinity or related field. Two units of CPE. Preferred Experience: Current healthcare or military chaplaincy experience. Preferred Other: - Where needed, language skills or experience with specific patient groups served. - Sensitivity to and respect for various religions. - Knowledge in areas of pastoral theology, medical ethics, spirituality, death and dying, and crisis intervention. - Is a career ladder candidate. Why Mercy? From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period. Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.
03/26/2026
Full time
Find your calling at Mercy! Responding to the healing mission of Jesus and the tradition of Catherine McAuley to serve the poor and sick person, we participate in meeting the health needs of the community. Pastoral Services assists the patient, family, and personnel in meeting their spiritual, social, and emotional needs during a time of illness, injury or stress and will minister to all persons, regardless of their belief system. Performs duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards. Position Details: Education: Bachelor's Degree in Theology, Ministry, Divinity, or related field; or equivalent education and experience in lieu of the degree in addition to the required experience. One unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (see worksheet Guide to Determining Applicable CPE & Certification Programs for New Chaplain Hires) or equivalent experience (see worksheet Guide to Determining Applicable Work Experience for New Chaplain Hires). If equivalent experience, the candidate has up to one year to complete the unit. Licensure: None. Experience: Experience in visiting the sick in a ministry capacity. Certifications: In good standing with community and endorsed or eligible for endorsement by faith community. Other: - Compassion and respect for the dignity of each person. - Good communication and listening skills. - Ability to minister to the whole person with an emphasis on the spiritual. - Ability to be self-reflective about work. - Responds with respect, graciousness, kindness and spiritual comfort. - Ability to work independently in the context of a strong pastoral team and in cooperation with the interdisciplinary clinical team to provide quality services resulting in high patient satisfaction. - Able to work in emotional and stressful situations. - Advocates for patient, family member or co-worker when the need arises. - Uses computer systems, pagers, and telephone systems effectively. Preferred Education: Some Master's level work in Theology, Ministry, Counseling, Divinity or related field. Two units of CPE. Preferred Experience: Current healthcare or military chaplaincy experience. Preferred Other: - Where needed, language skills or experience with specific patient groups served. - Sensitivity to and respect for various religions. - Knowledge in areas of pastoral theology, medical ethics, spirituality, death and dying, and crisis intervention. - Is a career ladder candidate. Why Mercy? From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period. Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
03/25/2026
Full time
What is a Chaplain? There are those who are born to lead, and those who are born to lead in faith. As a Navy Chaplain, you will be the voice of encouragement, reason and hope to thousands of Sailors and Marines. From morning prayers to Sunday mass services to baptisms at sea, you will support and uplift the brave men and women who have chosen to serve their country. The Navy Chaplain Corps boasts more than 800 Navy Chaplains from more than 100 different faith groups, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and many others. Chaplains hold important leadership roles as well, each serving as a Navy Officer. Chaplains offer everything from faith and personal advice, to much-needed solace - all while living up to the guiding principles of the Chaplain Mission: Providing religious ministry and support to those of your own faith Facilitating the religious requirements of those from all faiths Caring for all servicemembers and their families, including those subscribing to no specific faith Advising the command in ensuring the free exercise of religion To learn more, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Want to start your journey with the Navy? Apply Now Officer None What to Expect Navy Chaplain Navy Chaplain - Ministry of Presence - The Full Experience About Chaplain Jobs in the Navy Responsibilities As a Navy Chaplain, your job spans a broad range of duties. You will support fellow servicemembers during their most joyful moments and during their most difficult. Your responsibilities might be to: Conduct worship services in a variety of settings Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funeral services and baptisms Counsel individuals who seek guidance Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being Work Environment Navy Chaplains immerse themselves in the daily lives of servicemembers. In what can be best described as a ministry of presence, they are there to offer guidance and insight, whenever they're needed. You could provide support on land or at sea, when presiding over religious ceremonies on a base or conducting services from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Training & Advancement Those pursuing a Chaplain position are required to attend Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. Upon completion, they attend a seven-week course at the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, also in Newport, RI. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Post-Service Opportunities Specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields such as family counseling and behavioral therapy in the civilian world. Education Opportunities Navy Chaplains typically continue their education throughout their careers. Opportunities for continuing education are available through the Advanced Education Program while being paid full-time as a Navy Officer. Beyond professional credentials and certifications, Navy Chaplains can advance their education by: Pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges Keep in mind: if you're in the process of starting or completing your graduate theological degree, you may have the opportunity to enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program (CCPO) as a student. Qualifications & Requirements A candidate seeking to serve as a Navy Chaplain and Officer must: Have a bachelor's degree from a qualified four-year undergraduate educational institution Have a graduate degree in theological or related studies from an accredited educational institution. (Note that a qualifying degree program requires no fewer than 72 semester hours or 108 quarter hours of graduate-level work. Related studies may include graduate courses in pastoral counseling, social work, religious administration and similar disciplines when one-half of the earned credits include topics in general religion, world religions, the practice of religion, theology, religious philosophy, religious ethics and/or the foundational writings from the applicant's religious tradition.) Have two years of full-time religious leadership experience that's compatible with the duties of a Religious Ministry Professional (RMP) in their respective Religious Organizations (RO) and relevant to the settings of military chaplaincy Must be able to obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a religious faith organization registered with the Department of War General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. To learn more and see if you qualify to serve as a Navy Chaplain, call the Chaplain Corps at 888-NAVYCHC. Part-Time Opportunities Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Chaplain, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Chaplains in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. This gives you the flexibility to minister in the Navy while maintaining responsibilities to your congregation at home. For Annual Training, Chaplains may serve anywhere in the world, alongside the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to whom they minister. Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) - or the equivalent of that. Chaplains in the Navy Reserve serve in an Officer role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with this job, initial training requirements must be met. For current or former Navy Officers (NAVET): Prior experience satisfies the initial leadership training requirement - so you will not need to go through Officer Training again. For current or former Officers of military branches other than the Navy (OSVET), as well as for Officer candidates without prior military experience: Officer Candidates will be required to attend the Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. ODS is a five-week program that provides a comprehensive and intense introduction to the responsibilities of Navy Staff Corps Officers. Officers who previously held a commission in another United States Military Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, or United States Coast Guard are exempt from attending ODS or LDO/CWO Academy. For educational and institutional qualifications and requirements, please reference the Qualifications & Requirements section above. General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Compare Navy Careers See how a career as a Navy Chaplain compares to other Navy jobs. Compare roles, pay and requirements for each job now.
