Clergy
Description OES Code: 27502
Conduct religious worship and perform other spiritual functions associated with beliefs and practices of religious faith or denomination as delegated by ordinance, license, or other authorization. Provide spiritual and moral guidance and assistance to members.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $8.72
25th Percentile $11.13
50th Percentile $19.02
75th Percentile $25.91

Wages, San Joaquin
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $6.25
25th Percentile $6.35
50th Percentile $7.22
75th Percentile $13.36

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Members of the clergy typically work long and irregular hours. Those who do not work in congregational settings may have more routine schedules. In 1998, almost one-fifth of full-time clergy worked 60 or more hours a week, 3 times that of all workers in professional specialty occupations. Although many of their activities are sedentary and intellectual in nature, clergy frequently are called upon on short notice to visit the sick, comfort the dying and their families, and provide counseling to those in need. Involvement in community, administrative, and educational activities sometimes require clergy to work evenings, early mornings, holidays, and weekends.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 4,300
Projected Employment 2008 5,500
Percent Change 1998-2008 27.9%
Separations 1998-2008 1,000

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 200
Projected Employment 2006 250
Percent Change 1999-2006 25%
Separations 1999-2006 30

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Because of their roles as leaders regarding spiritual and morality issues, some members of the clergy often feel obligated to address and resolve both societal problems and the personal problems of their congregants, which can lead to stress.

Advancement
Junior clergy may advance into the role of senior clergy, who may spend considerable time on administrative duties, overseeing the management of buildings, ordering supplies, contracting for services and repairs, and supervising the work of staff and volunteers. Individuals considering a career in the clergy should realize they are choosing not only a career but also a way of life. in fact, most members of the clergy remain in their chosen vocation throughout their lives; in 1998, 12 percent of clergy were 65 or older, compared to only 3 percent of workers in all professional specialty occupations.

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Education and Training
Educational requirements for entry into the clergy vary greatly. Similar to other professional occupations, about 3 out of 4 members of the clergy have completed at least a bachelor's degree. Many denominations require that clergy complete a bachelor's degree and a graduate-level program of theological study; others will admit anyone who has been "called" to the vocation. Some faiths do not allow women to become clergy; however, those that do are experiencing increases in the numbers of women seeking ordination. Men and women considering careers in the clergy should consult their religious leaders to verify specific entrance requirements.

Skills & Other Requirements
Religious leaders must exude confidence and motivation, while remaining tolerant and able to listen to the needs of others. They should be capable of making difficult decisions, working under pressure, and living up to the moral standards set by their faith and community.

References
Us Bureau of Labor Statistics Occuapational Outlook Handbook

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)