The Chaplain Associate is responsible for the assessment of spiritual needs and the provision of expert spiritual care, crisis intervention, and support to patients, their supporting community, and the Howard County Medical Center team members, under the direction of the Director of Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy. The chaplain offers empathetic listening and presence and spiritual care interventions to patients as they deal with spiritual issues related to their illnesses. Encourages each person to discover coping strategies out of their own faith journey, from an interfaith perspective and without imposing the chaplain's own religious orientation. Demonstrates deep knowledge of diverse religious traditions and the ability to serve persons and groups with diverse religious, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds. Coordinates with the patient's clergy or specific faith community or cultural/language group if requested by the patient, and in accordance with appropriate federal HIPAA regulations. Effective communication with patients, families, and employees during crises requires strong interpersonal skills.

Clear communication with hospital staff, patients, and families is essential. Demonstrates spiritual care and chaplaincy practice that reflects the Standards of Practice and Common Competencies for Professional Chaplains and the Common Code of Ethics for Spiritual Care Professionals. Provides on-call services for the hospital as needed.

This position requires working as needed, including evenings, nights, and weekends.

Education:

Completion of a Master of Divinity degree or its equivalent from an accredited Theological School. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Proficiency in spiritual care, which is generally attained through a minimum of two units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) program offered by the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE), The National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC), or the National Association of Jewish Chaplains (NAJC). Four units of CPE preferred.

Basic Computer skills required.