Serving Those Who Served: The Role of a VA Chaplain in Billings
The role of a Chaplain within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is more than just a job; it is a calling. As a Chaplain in Billings, Montana, you will play a critical role in the holistic recovery and comfort of America's Veterans. If you possess a deep commitment to spiritual service and clinical excellence, this opportunity offers a unique platform to make a lasting impact.
Job Responsibilities
As a Chaplain, you will:
- Provide comprehensive religious, spiritual, and pastoral care to Veterans.
- Integrate spiritual wellness into the medical treatment plan.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including doctors, nurses, and social workers.
- Support patients and their families during crises, surgeries, and end-of-life care.
- Lead religious services and rituals in a pluralistic environment.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet stringent federal standards:
- Education: A Master of Divinity or equivalent graduate-level training.
- Ecclesiastical Endorsement: An active, current endorsement from your faith group.
- Clinical Experience: At least two units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) or 800 hours of equivalent supervised ministry.
- Proficiency: Advanced communication and clinical documentation skills.
Grade Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Series | 0060 (Chaplain) |
| Grade Level | GS-12 |
| Salary Range | $89,508 – $116,362 |
| Employment Type | Excepted Service |
Salary and Benefits
This position is compensated at the GS-12 level. Beyond the competitive salary, the VA offers an array of federal benefits, including robust health insurance, a comprehensive retirement system, and generous paid time off.
How to Apply
- Prepare your CV, transcript, and valid ecclesiastical endorsement.
- Apply via the USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the online questionnaire accurately.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of March 29, 2027.
Being a VA Chaplain in Billings is a rewarding career move that combines professional expertise with a higher purpose. If you are ready to support the spiritual needs of those who have served, review the requirements and submit your application today.
Why This Chaplain Job Matters
Bring your compassion and ministry leadership to the Veterans Health Administration as a Chaplain in Billings, MT.
Chaplain Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Chaplain to provide comprehensive spiritual and pastoral care to our nation's heroes. In this vital role, you will integrate spiritual wellness into the patient care journey, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to support Veterans, families, and staff in clinical environments. This position serves the Billings community with primary coverage duties, offering a rewarding career path for those called to serve those who have served.
Requirements for Chaplain
- United States Citizenship (with limited exceptions for non-citizens per VA policy).
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Current ecclesiastical endorsement (within the past 12 months) from a national religious authority.
- Master of Divinity degree or equivalent educational qualification.
- Completion of at least two units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) or 800 hours of equivalent supervised ministry.
- One year of specialized professional experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
- Physical and mental ability to perform essential job functions.
Preferred Qualifications for Chaplain
- Demonstrated ability to integrate psychological and sociological theory with spiritual care.
- Experience in developing and implementing research-based spiritual care methodologies.
- Proven skill in conflict mediation and providing spiritual leadership in high-stress crisis situations.
- Expertise in mentoring colleagues and students in advanced spiritual care interventions.
- Ability to collaborate effectively within a complex interdisciplinary healthcare team.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid leave, including vacation and sick time.
- ✓Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
- ✓Meaningful work serving the Veteran population.
- ✓Balanced work-life environment.
💡 How to Apply Chaplain Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Chaplain Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job questionnaire to understand specific criteria.
- Prepare your resume, ecclesiastical endorsement, transcripts, and any required veterans' preference documentation.
- Upload all necessary documents via the USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire and submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your clinical ministry experience.
- Double-check that your ecclesiastical endorsement is dated within the last 12 months.
- Submit your transcripts early to avoid technical delays.
- Review your application for completeness; incomplete packages will not be considered.
- Monitor your email for status updates after the announcement closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is based in Billings, Montana, and requires onsite presence to provide care to Veterans.
What is the educational requirement for this position?
Candidates must possess a Master of Divinity degree or an equivalent combination of 120 bachelor-level hours and 70 graduate-level hours in specific theological and pastoral studies.
Do I need to be a veteran to apply?
While Veterans' Preference is applied to eligible candidates, this position is open to qualified applicants regardless of prior military service.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow, and his orphan." The Montana VA Health Care System provides integrated, patient-centered care. By joining the Billings team, you become part of a network that values professional growth, clinical complexity, and compassionate service.