Mercy Retirement and Care Center - Chaplain (Part Time)

Transforming Age•Oakland, CA

3d•$30 - $33•Onsite

About The Position

Mercy Retirement and Care Center is seeking a part-time Chaplain to provide spiritual, emotional, and psychological support to residents, their families, and team members. This role involves offering pastoral presence, leading liturgical and sacramental celebrations, and facilitating activities that enhance spiritual well-being. The Chaplain will uphold the mission and philosophy of Mercy Retirement and Care Center, Elder Care Alliance, and Transforming Age, ensuring compassionate care and respecting the dignity of all individuals. The position is part of a small but dedicated team, supported by volunteers, and aims to make a significant impact on the lives of vulnerable seniors.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree with advanced study in theology, spirituality, pastoral counseling, or a closely related field.
Minimum of two years of experience in chaplaincy or a related pastoral care profession.
Training and experience in individual counseling and group facilitation.
Current First Aid certification in accordance with Title 22 regulations.
Familiarity with Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 8 regulatory requirements related to residential care and skilled nursing.
Strong understanding of theological and bioethical issues, including those relevant to aging, illness, and end-of-life care.
Knowledge of gerontology, the aging process, and the specific needs of older adults, particularly those with cognitive challenges.
Awareness and respect for interfaith religious beliefs and traditions, with the ability to provide inclusive, compassionate spiritual care across diverse populations.
Ability to work respectfully within a predominantly Catholic faith community, while also supporting those of other or no faith backgrounds.
Eligibility to serve as a Eucharistic Minister is required.
Demonstrated compassion and empathy in providing spiritual and emotional support.
Effective communication and counseling skills, especially related to grief, loss, and transitions.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and a collaborative work ethic are essential.
Ability to interact professionally with residents, families, volunteers, and team members in a multi-cultural environment.
Skilled in adaptability, decision-making under pressure, and managing multiple priorities with flexibility and a positive attitude.
Deep passion for serving older adults, especially those with memory care or cognitive health needs.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.
Four units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) preferred.
Certification or certification-eligible through NACC, ACPE, or another recognized professional pastoral care organization.
Flexibility in schedule, occasionally.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with colleagues in team planning, shared decision-making, and mutual support.
Provide individualized spiritual, emotional, and psychosocial care through regular resident visits.
Assist new residents with spiritual orientation and emotional adjustment to community life.
Deliver spiritual care programming tailored to the Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing neighborhoods.
Document all pastoral care interactions in accordance with Care Center and Assisted Living charting guidelines.
Serve as a contributing member of interdisciplinary care teams by sharing relevant insights that promote holistic care.
Provide educational opportunities on religion, spirituality, ethics, and related topics that enrich the lives of residents.
Ensure the provision of inclusive, high-quality worship services and sacramental care for residents, families, and staff of diverse faith traditions.
Coordinate funeral and memorial services as needed.
Support program growth by helping recruit, train, and mentor pastoral volunteers and resident ministers in collaboration with the department director.
Visit residents who are hospitalized or transferred to higher levels of care and provide family support when requested.
Maintain confidentiality of all verbal and written resident information and communicate appropriately with the care team.
Promote the mission of Mercy Retirement and Care Center within the broader church and community.
Provide short-term spiritual and emotional support to staff, including active listening, grief and crisis care, mindfulness support, and referrals to HR or other resources as appropriate.
Participate in the ongoing work of the Spiritual Care Services department.
Promote the Mission, Vision and Values of Elder Care Alliance and Transforming Age in all areas of responsibility, and demonstrate commitment to Culture of Excellence and strategic goals.
Other duties as assigned.