Director of Pastoral Services and Education

Location: Harlingen, Texas (Relocation Assistance Available Based on Distance)

Employment Type: Full-Time

Compensation: $65,000 – $98,000 annually

Position Overview

Wheeler Staffing Partners is seeking a highly qualified Director of Pastoral Services and Education to provide strategic leadership and oversight of pastoral care services within a healthcare system in Harlingen, Texas.

This role is responsible for guiding the development and implementation of a comprehensive, system-wide pastoral care ministry while overseeing all components of the hospital’s Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) programs. The Director ensures the delivery of high-quality spiritual and emotional care to patients, families, and staff across diverse backgrounds and faith traditions.

The ideal candidate is an ACPE Certified Educator with strong clinical pastoral leadership experience and demonstrated success supervising CPE students within an accredited training center.

Key Responsibilities

System-Wide Pastoral Services Leadership

• Lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive pastoral care program across the healthcare system
• Provide strategic oversight for spiritual care services for patients, families, and staff
• Ensure inclusive spiritual support
• Support and mentor facility-level Pastoral Care Directors
• Promote excellence in spiritual and emotional care delivery

Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Oversight

• Direct and oversee all hospital-based CPE programs
• Ensure compliance with ACPE accreditation standards
• Integrate CPE training into overall pastoral care services
• Independently supervise CPE students in accordance with ACPE guidelines
• Maintain documentation and compliance with ACPE standards and competencies

Supervision and Mentorship

• Provide autonomous supervision of CPE students at an ACPE-accredited center
• Offer leadership development, guidance, and professional support to pastoral staff
• Foster an environment of spiritual care excellence and professional accountability

Operational & Administrative Leadership

• Ensure compliance with hospital policies and professional standards
• Complete required competencies within designated onboarding timeframe
• Participate in system-level planning and interdisciplinary collaboration
• Perform related leadership and administrative duties as assigned

Required Education

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university (any major)
• Graduate professional degree from an Accredited Theological School (ATS) accredited by the Association of Theological Schools
• Completion of four (4) units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)

Preferred Education

• Master of Divinity (MDiv) or Doctor of Ministry (DMin) from an accredited theological school

Required Experience

• Minimum 2 years of pastoral ministry in a clinical healthcare setting (hospital, hospice, or medical center)
• Minimum 2 years of autonomous supervision of CPE students at an ACPE-accredited training center
• Direct experience providing spiritual care to patients and families
• Experience independently supervising CPE students

Preferred Experience

• At least 2 years of pastoral leadership or management experience in a clinical setting
• Experience leading or managing pastoral care departments within a healthcare system

Required Certifications / Licensure

• ACPE Certified Educator (Association for Clinical Pastoral Education) – Required
• Board Certified by the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC) or affiliated cognate group
• Ecclesiastical endorsement from recognized faith group

Preferred Certifications / Licensure

• Ordination by recognized faith group

Work Environment

• Hospital-based healthcare environment
• Interaction with patients, families, clinical staff, and executive leadership
• May involve emotionally sensitive situations and crisis response

Why Work With Wheeler Staffing Partners

Wheeler Staffing Partners connects experienced professionals with leading healthcare organizations committed to excellence in patient-centered care. We provide personalized support throughout the hiring process, including resume consultation, interview preparation, and onboarding guidance. Our team is dedicated to aligning your professional calling and leadership experience with organizations where you can make meaningful impact and grow in your career.