Make a Difference: Correctional Treatment Specialist (Reentry Affairs Coordinator) with the Bureau of Prisons

Are you passionate about helping individuals successfully reintegrate into society and committed to public safety? The Bureau of Prisons (BOP), an integral part of the Department of Justice, is seeking dedicated professionals to join their team as a Correctional Treatment Specialist (Reentry Affairs Coordinator) in Tucson, Arizona. This vital role involves preparing inmates for a successful return to their communities, fostering a humane and secure correctional environment, and contributing to the overall well-being of society. If you possess a strong background in social or behavioral sciences and a desire to enact positive change, this opportunity offers a rewarding career path with competitive compensation and benefits.

About the Bureau of Prisons

The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is responsible for the custody and care of federal inmates, nationwide. Its mission is to protect society by providing safe, secure, and humane correctional services. The BOP is committed to ensuring that inmates are prepared for successful reentry into the community upon release, reducing recidivism and enhancing public safety. With a focus on rehabilitation and continuous improvement, the BOP offers a dynamic and challenging work environment for its employees, valuing integrity, leadership, and a commitment to excellence.

Job Responsibilities

As a Correctional Treatment Specialist (Reentry Affairs Coordinator), you will play a pivotal role in facilitating the successful transition of inmates back into society. Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Direct Service Provision: Delivering direct services through group and individual instruction, educating inmates on various reentry-related topics derived from approved programs and national initiatives.
• Program Development and Maintenance: Assisting in the development, implementation, and upkeep of automated systems designed to efficiently collect and distribute reentry-related information.
• Resource and Research Support: Serving as an in-house expert for other Reentry Affairs Coordinators nationwide, providing pertinent research findings and outcome-based program information to prevent duplication of efforts and inform operational planning.
• Reporting: Preparing and submitting comprehensive reports for institutional, regional, and central office monitoring of reentry, volunteer, and related activities.
• Volunteer Cultivation: Overseeing the institution's volunteer and citizen participation efforts, actively cultivating and identifying suitable volunteers and mentors to meet program needs.
• Institutional Security: Maintaining the security of the correctional institution is a primary responsibility, preceding all other duties, and is performed on a regular and recurring basis.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following qualifications:

Basic Requirements:

• Degree: A bachelor's degree that included at least 24 semester hours of coursework in the behavioral or social sciences. Relevant fields include sociology, correctional administration, criminal justice, government/political science, psychology, social work, and counseling.
• OR Combination of Education and Experience: A combination of education and experience, including at least 24 semester hours of coursework in the behavioral or social sciences, that demonstrates knowledge equivalent to a 4-year degree in these fields.

In Addition to Basic Requirements:

• GL-09: Two years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's degree, or a master's or equivalent graduate degree. The graduate education must be in corrections or a related field.
• GS-11: Three years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree, or a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree. The doctoral education must be in corrections or a related field.
• OR Experience (GL-09 and GS-11): At least one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and complexity to the next lower grade level. This experience must have equipped you with the skills to perform the duties of the position and is typically in or related to correctional settings. Examples include:
  • GL-09: Collecting data and conducting research for institutional reports; presenting information to groups; establishing and maintaining relationships; collecting information during audits.
  • GS-11: Delivering and coordinating offender skill-building programs and reentry initiatives; evaluating offender programs and recommending improvements; identifying and analyzing statistical data related to offender programs; establishing and maintaining working relationships to foster volunteer participation.
• OR Combination of Education and Experience (GL-09 and GS-11): A combination of successfully completed graduate-level education and specialized experience.

Key Requirements:

• U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Appointment is subject to satisfactory completion of a urinalysis, physical, and background investigation.
• All applicants are subject to National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and credit checks.
• Applicants not currently working in an institution may need to complete a qualification inquiry regarding misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence if authorized to carry a firearm.
• Successful completion of the "Introduction to Correctional Techniques" training course is mandatory.

Federal Employee Considerations:

• Time-in-Grade: Federal employees must meet time-in-grade requirements.
• Career Transition Programs (CTAP): Specific eligibility criteria and documentation are required for CTAP applicants.

Salary Overview

This position is graded at the GS-09/GS-11 levels. The annual salary range is:

• GL-09: $64,990 - $83,706
• GS-11: $77,995 - $98,928

(Note: The representative rate for this position is $83,706 per annum. Salary will be determined based on the selected candidate's qualifications, experience, and the specific grade level.)

Benefits

Employees of the Bureau of Prisons enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health Insurance: Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program, offering a variety of plans to meet your needs.
• Life Insurance: Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
• Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), a powerful retirement savings and investment plan.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual, plus paid federal holidays.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, career advancement, and continuous learning.

Application Tips

To maximize your chances of success in the application process, consider the following:

• Read Carefully: Thoroughly review the entire job announcement, paying close attention to all listed requirements, qualifications, and required documents.
• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to specifically address the duties and qualifications outlined in the announcement. Use keywords from the job description to highlight your relevant experience and skills.
• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, quantify your accomplishments. Instead of stating you 'managed programs,' specify 'managed X number of reentry programs serving Y inmates annually.'
• Document Everything: Ensure all experiences, education, and certifications are clearly documented. If qualifying by education, upload legible transcripts early.
• Be Honest and Accurate: Provide truthful and accurate information in your application. Any discrepancies found during the background investigation can lead to disqualification.
• Submit Early: Avoid last-minute rushes. Submit your application and all required documents well before the closing date to prevent technical issues or missed deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
What is the primary focus of this role?	The primary focus is on coordinating reentry affairs, which involves preparing inmates for a successful transition back into the community through various programs and services.
Do I need to be a U.S. Citizen to apply?	Yes, U.S. Citizenship is a mandatory requirement for this position.
What if my graduate education is in a related but different field?	The announcement specifies that graduate education must be in corrections or a related field such as criminal justice, sociology, psychology, counseling, or social work. Ensure your coursework aligns with these or similar areas to meet the requirement.
Will I be required to relocate?	This position is located in Tucson, Arizona. Relocation assistance is not mentioned, so it is assumed applicants must be able to commute to this location.
How long does the selection process typically take?	The selection process usually takes up to 90 days from the generation of the certificate of eligible candidates, but it can extend up to 180 days if necessary. You will be notified of the outcome after each step.
Can I apply if I'm currently a federal employee?	Yes, federal employees can apply. However, you must meet the time-in-grade requirements for the grade level you are applying for. Career Transition Programs (CTAP) information is also provided for eligible federal employees.

Serving as a Correctional Treatment Specialist (Reentry Affairs Coordinator) with the Bureau of Prisons is more than just a job; it's an opportunity to contribute significantly to public safety and the well-being of individuals re-entering society. If you are driven by a desire to make a positive impact and possess the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Join a dedicated team committed to making a difference in correctional services and community reintegration. Apply today and embark on a fulfilling career with the U.S. Department of Justice.