CHAPLAIN

McDonough District Hospital; Macomb (IL); On-site; USD 33,558 - 50,323; Full time

Job summary

McDonough District Hospital is seeking a Hospice Chaplain to provide spiritual, emotional, and pastoral support to hospice patients and their families. This role is essential in addressing spiritual needs and facilitating discussions around end-of-life care in accordance with hospice philosophy. The ideal candidate should have strong interpersonal skills, the ability to manage grief-related environments, and a Bachelor's degree, while a Master's degree in a related field is preferred. Familiarity with EHR systems and compassion in emotionally sensitive situations are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master of Divinity preferred.
• Board Certification in chaplaincy preferred.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Responsibilities

• Provide spiritual and emotional support to hospice patients and families.
• Facilitate end-of-life discussions and address spiritual needs.
• Work collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Compassionate care

Organizational skills

Emotional resilience

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master of Divinity or related theological degree

Tools

Electronic Health Record (EHR) system

Computer/laptop/tablet

Standard office equipment

Job description

Expected pay for this position is $24.36‑$36.53. Actual pay will be determined by experience, skills and internal equity.

Job Summary

The Hospice Chaplain provides spiritual, emotional, and pastoral support to hospice patients, their families, and caregivers in accordance with the philosophy and mission of hospice care. This role serves as an integral member of the interdisciplinary team, addressing spiritual needs, facilitating end‑of‑life discussions, and supporting individuals of diverse faith traditions and beliefs. The Chaplain ensures compassionate presence and guidance during the end‑of‑life journey.

Job Relationships

Supervision Received: Direct supervision from the Director of Home Health and Hospice. Supervision Exercised: None. Essential Interactions: Relationships maintained within the MDH Hospice and Home Health Care department. Also interacts with physicians, other hospital staff, nursing home staff, patients and their families, and appropriate community resources. Must have the ability to work with a variety of patients of all populations (e.g., developmentally appropriate care, cultural diversity, patients with pain, victims of abuse or neglect, and diagnosis or procedure specific such as patient with congestive heart failure or cesarean delivery).

Working Conditions

• Primarily works in patient homes, hospice facilities, and healthcare settings.
• Requires travel within the service area.
• Exposure to emotionally intense situations, including end‑of‑life care and grieving families.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to travel to patient locations.
• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Occasional lifting of light materials (up to 20 lbs).

Equipment, Machines, Tools, Materials and Work Aids

Computer, laptop, or tablet for documentation and communication; Electronic Health Record (EHR) system; Telephone, mobile phone, and voicemail systems; Standard office equipment (printer, copier, scanner); Reliable transportation for travel to patient homes and care settings; Audio/visual tools for virtual visits (as applicable); Spiritual care resources (e.g., religious texts, prayer books, devotional materials); Bereavement and grief support materials; Personal protective equipment (PPE) as required (e.g., gloves, masks).

Job Specifications

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree required.
  • Master of Divinity or related theological degree preferred.

Licensure/Certification

• Board Certification (or eligible) through a recognized chaplaincy organization preferred (e.g., APC, NACC).
• Valid driver’s license required.

Experience

• Previous experience in hospice, healthcare, or pastoral care preferred.
• Experience working with individuals at end‑of‑life strongly preferred.

Abilities, Interests and Temperaments

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to provide compassionate care in emotionally sensitive situations.
• Respect for diverse religious, spiritual, and cultural beliefs.
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Emotional resilience and ability to manage grief‑related environments.