The Chaplain provides spiritual and emotional support to hospice patients and their families while collaborating with an interdisciplinary team to implement care plans. They act as a liaison with the clerical community and assist families in navigating the stages of death and grief.
Company: Compassus
The Chaplain is a hospice-trained individual who provides spiritual support to patients and the members of the family. S/he may be a priest, minister, rabbi, or other individual with experience in spiritual support. The Chaplain is not intended to replace the patient's own clergy, but to provide spiritual support and help.
Position Specific Responsibilities Explains hospice services and Medicare benefits to patients and families; obtains Informed Consent and Election of Benefits documents as requested.
Submits appropriate documentation and paperwork to facilities at the completion of patient visits; documentation is completed and submitted timely according to company policy.
Articulates the regulatory framework governing the role of the Spiritual Counselor (federal and state, if applicable).
Participates as a member of the IDT, including development and implementation of the plan of care.
Provides spiritual care support to the patient and family; supports the involvement of community clergy as the patient/family request.
Assists in identifying the need for intervention of other IDT members.
Effectively communicates patient and family needs to IDT.
Collaborates with IDT to coordinate spiritual care support for the patient and family to ensure appropriateness, continuity, and quality of care.
Maintains updated, comprehensive care plans which reflect current problems, goals and interventions for patients.
Maintains respect for the family's environment and belief systems, and remains nondiscriminatory regarding age, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, and other personal matters.
Counsels in accordance with patient’s and family’s beliefs.
Supports the patient and family in working through the stages of death, grief, and bereavement.
Acts as liaison with the clerical community to interpret the needs of the hospice patient and family, and helps recruit clerical volunteers for the hospice.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Education and/or Experience High school diploma or GED required.
Bachelor's degree in Divinity, Social Sciences, or other related field preferred, unless required per state regulation.
Completion of at least one (1) unit of CPE preferred, unless required per state regulation.
Minimum of one (1) year of experience in the provision of spiritual/ pastoral support to individuals or families required.
Minimum of one (1) year of experience in the provision of pastoral support to individuals/ families related to loss, grief, bereavement, or trauma preferred.
The demands of this role necessitate a team member to effectively perform essential functions. Adaptations can be made to accommodate team members with disabilities. Regular standing, walking, and manual dexterity are fundamental, along with the ability to lift and move objects up to 50 pounds. Visual acuity requirements include close and distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. In a healthcare setting, exposure to bodily fluids, infectious diseases, and conditions typical to the field is expected. Routine use of standard medical equipment and tools associated with clinical care is essential. This description provides a general overview and may vary by role and department, capturing the nuanced demands and conditions inherent to clinical positions in our organization.
At Compassus, including all Compassus affiliates, diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to our Pillars of Success. We are committed to creating a fair work environment where our team members feel welcomed, highly valued, and respected. As an equal opportunity employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. #LI-MA1 Build a Rewarding Career with Compassus At Compassus, we care for our team members as much as we care for our patients and their families. Through our Care for Who I Am culture, we show compassion, respect, and appreciation for every individual. Embark on a career that cares for you while you care for others. Your Career Journey Matters We’re dedicated to helping you grow and succeed. Whether you’re pursuing leadership roles, specialized training, or exploring new career paths, we provide the tools and support you need to thrive. The Compassus Advantage
Meaningful Work: Make an impact every day by honoring the quality of life of our patients, supporting them and their families with compassion, and creating moments that truly matter.
Career Development: Access leadership pathways, mentorship, and personalized professional development.
Innovation Meets Compassion: Collaborate with a supportive team using the latest tools and technologies to deliver exceptional care.
Enhanced Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible time off, tuition reimbursement, and wellness programs designed for your well-being.
Recognition and Support: Be celebrated for your contributions through recognition programs that honor your dedication.
A Culture of Belonging: Thrive in a culture where you can be your authentic self, valued for your unique contributions and supported in a community that embraces diversity and inclusion. Ready to Join? At Compassus, your career is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact. Take the next step and join a team that empowers you to grow, innovate, and thrive.
A high school diploma is required, while a bachelor's degree in Divinity or Social Sciences and CPE completion are preferred. Candidates must have at least one year of experience providing spiritual or pastoral support to individuals or families.
Market context
In Michigan, chaplain openings are often tied to hospitals, senior care, and other healthcare settings that need candidates with both spiritual care training and clinical readiness. This role is competitive because employers usually look for a Master of Divinity, parish pastoral experience or equivalent, and CPE preparation, along with strong communication and problem-solving skills. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save research time, then compare your CPE and pastoral background against the posting before applying.
