Chaplaincy and Pastoral Practice Lead Sydney South West and Central NSW

Chaplaincy and Pastoral Practice Lead – Sydney South West and Central NSW

Position Overview:

Uniting NSW.ACT is seeking a full-time permanent Chaplaincy and Pastoral Practice Lead to inspire and guide a dedicated team of chaplains and pastoral practitioners in Sydney’s south-west and central NSW regions. Based in Campbelltown, this role is pivotal to our Mission Directorate and links closely with both Uniting and Uniting Church leadership, fostering strong spiritual and pastoral care networks across Uniting’ services and communities.

Key Aspects of the Role:

1. Leadership & Management: Oversee a team of pastoral care staff, including seven direct reports, across multiple sites. Manage day-to-day chaplaincy operations while ensuring alignment with Uniting’s mission. Regular travel to Dubbo, Orange, and other locations will be required.
2. Mission Strategy Contribution: Engage as a leader within the Mission Directorate, supporting the broader strategy and bringing the gospel perspective to organisational structure and mission.
3. Church and Community Collaboration: Build and maintain relationships with Uniting Church leadership, congregations, presbyteries, and community service groups, enhancing Uniting’s pastoral presence.

About You:

We are calling for a pastoral, prophetic, and organised leader with a background in chaplaincy or pastoral ministry. You will bring:

• People management skills to inspire, mentor, and lead the Sydney South West and Central NSW Chaplaincy and Pastoral Practice team.
• An ability to theologically reflect on your own pastoral ministry and the capacity to teach and inspire others to do the same in their work. Passion for teamwork and accountability, with a strong commitment to social change.
• A flexible, inclusive outlook, understanding and celebrating diversity across LGBTI+, cultural, theological, ecumenical, and interfaith contexts.
• Sound administrative skills, including documentation and proficiency in digital systems.

Role Responsibilities:

• Team Leadership: Guide team members, ensuring personal growth, professional development, and innovative practice in spiritual and pastoral care services.
• Community Impact: Maintain active engagement with congregations, Uniting services, and community providers.
• Operational Excellence: Oversee pastoral care documentation, client services, and adherence to best practices.
• People Management: Develop a supportive, feedback-driven team culture aligned with Uniting’s values of Bold, Respectful, Imaginative, and Compassionate.

Qualifications:

• Tertiary qualifications in Theology or equivalent experience.
• Completion of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) or equivalent.
• Ordained Minister (Deacon or Minister of the Word) in the Uniting Church, or a minister from another denomination willing to undertake the Admission of Ministers process, or a suitably qualified lay person eligible to apply for Ministry of Pastor.

Desirable:

• Postgraduate qualifications.
• Established relationships with congregations and community service groups.

Join us in shaping a supportive, impactful chaplaincy service that upholds Uniting’s mission of service, inclusion, and social transformation.

To review the role responsibilities in greater detail please review the comprehensive Position Description by clicking on the link below 

 Uniting – Chaplaincy Lead PD – 2024

For all questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Dina Oraha via email at doraha@uniting.org

What We Offer You

• A rewarding career with a leading human services organisation.
• Access to our U rewards program with exclusive discounts.
• Flexible work hours for work-life balance.
• Access to Fitness Passport – Live your best life.
• A supportive and inclusive and collaborative work environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth.
• Purchase of additional leave.

How to apply:  Send your CV and a brief cover letter highlighting why this role appeals to you – Applications reviewed upon receipt.

When you’re part of Uniting NSW.ACT, you’re part of a diverse, purpose-led team of people who are really making a difference to the world around them.
 
We contribute to the work and mission of the Uniting Church in NSW and the ACT through social justice advocacy, community services and spiritual care. We provide care and support for people through all ages and stages of life, with a focus on people experiencing disadvantage and vulnerability. Our purpose is to inspire people, enliven communities and confront injustice.
 
Uniting leaders and employees work together to create a culture that is safe, inclusive and person-centred. We bring this to life every day through our values: compassionate, respectful, imaginative and bold.
 
Uniting acknowledges the continuing sovereignty and rich cultural diversity of Australia’s First Peoples. We pay our respects to all Elders – past, present, and emerging – and to all First Peoples on whose lands we live and work. 
 
Uniting is a Child Safe Organisation committed to promoting the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of children and young people.

Employment with Uniting is subject to satisfactory background checks which may include a national police check, reference checks, working with children checks, and NDIS checks.