Become a Chief Psychologist with the Federal Bureau of Prisons
Are you a clinical psychologist looking to lead a team while contributing to public safety and offender rehabilitation? The Federal Bureau of Prisons is currently seeking a highly qualified professional to serve as the Chief Psychologist in Welch, West Virginia. This role offers the unique opportunity to integrate high-level clinical management with the mission of the Department of Justice.
Job Responsibilities
As the Chief Psychologist, you will not only be a clinical practitioner but also a key advisor to executive staff. Key duties include:
- Clinical Leadership: Providing supervision and professional development for staff within the Psychology Services department.
- Crisis Intervention: Evaluating inmates experiencing situational crises or exhibiting signs of severe depression.
- Program Management: Overseeing the facility's suicide prevention program and the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- Security: Working in tandem with correctional staff to ensure the safety and security of the institution.
Requirements
This position requires a deep commitment to professionalism and a high level of expertise. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in clinical or counseling psychology.
- Current and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Ability to pass a federal background investigation and drug test.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this GS-13 position is $115,173 to $142,452 annually. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, a generous retirement program, and paid time off.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Level | GS-13 |
| Duty Location | Welch, West Virginia |
| License Req | Current & Unrestricted Doctoral |
| Background Check | Required (including NCIC) |
| Closing Date | July 15, 2026 |
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages and clearly outlines your specialized experience with hours worked per week. Be sure to upload your psychology license as a separate document, ensuring the expiration date is visible.
Serving as a Chief Psychologist with the Bureau of Prisons is more than a job; it is a chance to influence the path of rehabilitation and public safety. If you have the experience and dedication required, we encourage you to apply by the closing date.
Why This Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist) Job Matters
Lead change in a critical environment: Bring your clinical expertise to the Bureau of Prisons as a Chief Psychologist and shape mental health care for a secure, rehabilitative future.
Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist) Job Overview
The Bureau of Prisons is seeking a dedicated Clinical Psychologist to serve as Chief Psychologist in Welch, West Virginia. This leadership position is vital to our mission of fostering a safe and humane correctional environment. You will lead the Psychology Services department, oversee clinical programming, manage staff, and provide crucial psychological insights to executive leadership to support both inmate rehabilitation and employee wellness.
Requirements for Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in clinical or counseling psychology.
- Must possess a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level.
- Must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
- Ability to pass a thorough background investigation, drug screening, and physical.
- Must complete the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training at Glynco, Georgia.
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist)
- Proven experience in managing clinical suicide prevention programs.
- Demonstrated ability to consult with management on inmate behavioral classification.
- Experience managing an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- Expertise in providing professional clinical supervision to multidisciplinary staff.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans
- ✓Structured career development opportunities
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Supportive work environment dedicated to public service
💡 How to Apply Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement on USAJobs.
- Prepare a resume limited to two pages, following specified formatting.
- Ensure your doctoral license is uploaded with the expiration date clearly visible.
- Apply through the online portal and complete the required assessment questionnaire.
- Submit all supporting documentation, including transcripts and any veterans' preference forms.
💡 General Tips
- Use a clear, sans-serif font like Lato or Arial to ensure readability.
- Be precise in your resume; include start/end dates in MM/YYYY format and total hours worked per week.
- Double-check that your professional license document explicitly shows the expiration date.
- Clearly link your experience to the duties mentioned in the announcement, specifically in correctional or high-acuity settings.
- If claiming Veterans Preference, ensure all supporting documents (like DD-214) are uploaded at the time of application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance provided for this position?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this recruitment.
What is the age limit for this position?
While there is a maximum entry age of 39 for many federal law enforcement positions, exceptions exist for certain veterans and those with prior federal law enforcement coverage.
Can I submit my application via email?
No, you must apply through the online system on USAJobs unless you are a specifically designated candidate (such as a current Public Health Service Commissioned Officer) following the instructions provided for your category.
What is the probationary period?
Initial appointments to supervisory positions include a one-year probationary period.
Are there training requirements?
Yes, you will be required to attend the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' course at Glynco, Georgia.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is responsible for the custody and care of federal inmates. The agency plays a critical role in society by providing a safe, secure, and humane environment for incarcerated individuals, while preparing them for successful reentry into their communities. The Psychology Services department is at the heart of this effort, providing mental health assessments, crisis management, and specialized programming.