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Religious Program Specialists

Human Services

Service Branches

  • Army logo
  • navy logo
  • Air Force logo

Work Environment

Religious program specialists in the Military usually work indoors. They also serve aboard ships or with land and air units in the field.

  • Military Status

    Enlisted

  • Average Military Salary

    $131,731

Overview

Religious program specialists assist military chaplains in building a culture of spiritual care and facilitating the free exercise of religion for military service members and their families. As experts in religious diversity, they conduct worship services, provide pastoral counseling, and offer crisis intervention. They also advise leaders at all levels on religious accommodation, ethical, and moral issues.

Military Training

All enlisted service members complete basic military training which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field and covers tactical and survival skills physical training military life and customs and weapons training. Religious program specialists in the Military will gain skills through classroom study and on-the-job experience. Job-specific training content may include:

  • Principles of religious support programs
  • Guidance and counseling techniques
  • Leadership skills
  • Office procedures clerical skills and preparing forms and correspondence in Army style
  • Religious history and background

Helpful Attributes

  • Ability to express ideas clearly
  • Interest in administrative work
  • Interest in religious guidance
  • Knowledge of various religious customs and beliefs
  • Sensitivity to the needs of others

Related Civilian Careers

  • Directors, Religious Activities and Education