Become a Clinical Pastoral Educator at the Department of Veterans Affairs

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing whole-person care that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of our Veterans. We are currently seeking a highly qualified Chaplain (Clinical Pastoral Educator) to join the VA Augusta Health Care System. This role is perfect for a mission-driven professional who balances deep theological expertise with a passion for teaching and clinical leadership.

Job Responsibilities

As a CPE Educator, your primary responsibilities will include:

Educational Leadership: Directing the CPE Center, managing student recruitment, and developing evidence-based curricula.
Spiritual Care: Providing advanced pastoral counseling to patients, families, and staff facing complex spiritual or ethical dilemmas.
Clinical Integration: Serving as a key member of the interdisciplinary treatment team to ensure spiritual needs are addressed in care plans.
Administrative Oversight: Maintaining accreditation standards, center portfolios, and student records.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
Education: Master of Divinity or equivalent theological degree from an accredited institution.
Endorsement: Must hold a current, active ecclesiastical endorsement from a recognized national body.
Certification: Must be a Board-Certified Chaplain (BCC) and a certified CPE Educator.
Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level (or equivalent).

Salary and Comparison Table

Position Level	Salary Range	Schedule
GS-12 Chaplain Educator	$89,508 - $116,362	Full-Time (M-F)

Benefits

Federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement plans, including a pension and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Accrued annual and sick leave.
Opportunities to advance within the federal system.

Application Tips

Ensure your resume clearly articulates your experience in clinical supervision and curriculum design. Verify that your ecclesiastical endorsement documentation is dated within the last 12 months. Accuracy is vital—omissions or unclear documentation may impact your eligibility.

If you are a dedicated educator and chaplain looking for a meaningful career, this position with the VA offers the chance to make a lasting difference in the lives of Veterans and the next generation of spiritual care providers. Apply today to help us continue our mission.

Why This Chaplain (Clinical Pastoral Educator) Job Matters

Transform lives and shape the next generation of spiritual leaders as a Clinical Pastoral Educator with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Chaplain (Clinical Pastoral Educator) Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is seeking a dedicated and experienced Chaplain (Clinical Pastoral Educator) to join our team in Augusta, Georgia. In this pivotal role, you will serve as a leader in spiritual care and professional education, managing the Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Center while providing compassionate, high-quality ministry to our nation's Veterans. This position is essential to our mission of providing holistic, whole-health care to those who have served.

Requirements for Chaplain (Clinical Pastoral Educator)

U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may be hired only if no qualified citizens are available).
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Master of Divinity or equivalent theological graduate degree from an accredited institution.
Must hold a full and active ecclesiastical endorsement from a recognized national authority.
Board-Certified Chaplain status via BCCI or a recognized certifying body with reciprocity.
Certification as a CPE Educator by a recognized professional organization.
Pass a pre-employment physical and background/suitability investigation.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Preferred Qualifications for Chaplain (Clinical Pastoral Educator)

Certified Clinical Pastoral Educator via ACPE or other VA-approved professional organization.
Proven experience providing educational supervision for CPE Level 1 and Level 2 students.
Experience supervising students on the path to becoming CPE Educators.
Proficiency in Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems and spiritual assessment documentation.
Advanced knowledge of Joint Commission standards and CPE accreditation compliance.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Life insurance options.
✓Generous paid annual and sick leave.
✓Federal retirement benefits, including pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
✓Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
✓Work-life balance with standard Monday-Friday scheduling.

💡 How to Apply Chaplain (Clinical Pastoral Educator) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Chaplain (Clinical Pastoral Educator) Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a long-form resume or CV detailing your relevant experience.
Collect necessary supporting documents: transcripts, professional certifications, and ecclesiastical endorsements.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
Upload all required documentation, ensuring all forms are clear and legible.
Submit your application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Tailor your resume to highlight specific CPE supervision and administrative experience.
Ensure your ecclesiastical endorsement is current and dated within the last 12 months.
Double-check that all education meets CHEA or ATS accreditation standards.
Be specific in describing your duties—don't leave room for hiring managers to make assumptions.
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for remote work?

No, this is an onsite position located in Augusta, Georgia, and is not eligible for virtual work arrangements.

What happens if I lose my ecclesiastical endorsement?

Maintaining a full and active endorsement is a mandatory condition of employment. Losing it will result in removal from the Chaplain series and may lead to termination.

What is the trial period?

New employees must complete a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and professional conduct.

Is relocation assistance provided?

No, this position does not offer relocation or recruitment incentives.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to honor President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military. By joining the VHA, you become part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team that values dignity, compassion, and excellence.