(PCI) Assistant Chaplain
Location: University of Ulster, Belfast
Responsible to: The Council for Mission in Ireland through its Universities Chaplaincy Panel
Salary Grade: A5 Enhanced, Points 25-31, £33,751 - £38,583 per annum (Under Review)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
MAIN FUNCTION OF JOB
The re-location of the University of Ulster to Belfast city centre along with the recent expansion in nearby student accommodation means that Belfast is now home to a student population of well over 50,000 people. Situated in the heart of the city centre, the University of Ulster is home to over 12,000 students, a significant number from an international background.
An Assistant Chaplain is sought to join the wider Presbyterian Universities Chaplaincy team serving across the city, with specific focus for this role being given to the University of Ulster campus in Belfast. The post-holder will contribute to the Christian ministry and mission of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland in delivering the duties outlined and through the provision of a chaplaincy service to the staff and students of the University of Ulster in Belfast.
The Assistant Chaplain will seek to maintain the witness of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland in the University of Ulster through providing pastoral care to staff and students, offering spiritual activities and dovetailing with the wider chaplaincy team based in the university.
This post is under the supervision of the Lead Chaplain for Belfast and responsible to the Council for Mission in Ireland through its Universities Chaplaincy Panel, and will assist with the implementation of decisions of the General Assembly relevant to the Council and carry forward its delegated responsibilities.
About the role
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
University of Ulster, Belfast
To maintain and develop the witness of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland in the University of Ulster, Belfast.
To provide pastoral care to staff and students, and offer support for student Christian groups operating on campus.
To recognise and respond to the specific needs of particular cohorts of students as they approach chaplaincy for support, for example, international and exchange students and students with disabilities including mental ill health, working alongside the appropriate agencies
To serve as part of the wider denominational chaplaincy team, working in collaboration with other chaplains to arrange and promote relevant faith projects or religious programmes as appropriate.
To provide and promote appropriate programmes aimed at the development of spiritual formation and personal faith.
To be committed to a form of student ministry that dovetails well with the local Presbytery and nearby Presbyterian congregations, contributing to their work among students and liaising with Ministers, Kirk Sessions and other staff as appropriate.
To promote a historically rooted and intellectually robust approach to faith that engages through apologetics and reason.
To attend meetings within the University, including graduation ceremonies, where appropriate.
To perform such other duties, appropriate to the role, as may be required from time to time by the University.
To abide by the University of Ulster’s code of conduct for Chaplains and Religious Representatives.
Wider Church
1. To be an active part of the wider PCI Chaplaincy team in Belfast, supporting the role of the Chaplain in the discipleship and development of students as required.
2. To attend weekly meetings of the PCI Belfast Chaplaincy team to develop support, strategy, fellowship and prayer.
3. To prepare an annual report on the work of the service and be involved in other activities as determined by the Universities Chaplaincy Panel from time to time.
4. To, on occasion, engage in deputation as required for the purpose of informing congregations about the nature of Chaplaincy work.
5. To perform such other duties, appropriate to the role, as many be required from time to time by the Council for Mission in Ireland.
What you will need
Required criteria
- Third level education i.e., a degree or equivalent qualification
- A formal qualification in theology, pastoral care or counselling e.g., Theology degree or diploma or accreditation through the Association of Christian Counselling
- A vision for appropriate outreach to young people and for their spiritual development.
- A knowledge of current issues affecting university students
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience of ministering to students/young adults
- Experience of providing pastoral care to students/young adults
- Experience of involvement in discipleship and spiritual formation of students
- Competent in the use of Microsoft Office i.e., Word, Powerpoint
- Proven ability to teach the Bible and lead Bible study groups
- Evidence of self-motivation, leadership and team-working skills
- Excellent inter-personal skills and ability to make contact with students and young adults
- Knowledge of and competency in using social media as a means of communication
- Ability to act with discretion and maintain confidentiality
- Good organisational skills
- Ability to use own initiative
- Excellent communication skills both written and oral
- Communicant membership of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland
- Willing to work within the Christian ethos of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland
- Available to work unsocial hours, particularly during academic terms, that is mid-September to mid-December, February to Easter and post-Easter until end of May
- Availability of a car for business use and willingness to obtain appropriate insurance
Desired criteria
- Completion of a theological degree
- Working experience within a university community within the last five years
- Proven experience in providing counselling
- Previous experience in a chaplaincy role
- Proven experience of personal Christian witness in a diverse environment
- Evidence of active Christian service within the Presbyterian Church in Ireland
Presbyterian Church in Ireland
The Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI) is a community of believers shaped by faith, committed to loving God and serving others.
PCI plays an active role in social care, education, and advocacy, reflecting its core values of faith, compassion, and service. Through worship, discipleship, and outreach, PCI seeks to make a meaningful impact on society while fostering a strong, supportive Christian community.
WHAT PCI is one of the largest Christian denominations in Ireland, with over 500 congregations across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. PCI is committed to spreading the Gospel, serving communities, and supporting mission work both locally and globally. PCI provide practical care in through nursing, residential and supported housing, day services and more.
PCI fosters a culture of faith, service, and community. It values integrity, compassion, and inclusivity, encouraging members to live out their faith through worship, discipleship, and outreach. PCI provides a welcoming and supportive environment where individuals and families can deepen their faith, contribute to meaningful causes, and build lasting relationships within a vibrant Christian community.
Our benefits
Vacation, Paid time off
Retirement plan and/or pension
Employee Assistance Scheme
Perks Card
Annual Rise
On the job learning
Progression opportunities
Bereavement leave
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