Embark on a Meaningful Career: Special Education Teacher with the Federal Bureau of Prisons
Are you a dedicated educator looking to pivot your career toward a mission-critical environment? The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is currently seeking a passionate and resilient Special Education Teacher to join their team in Memphis, Tennessee. This position offers more than just a classroom; it offers the chance to change lives and enhance public safety through education.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will do much more than teach. You will:
- Design and implement remedial reading, math, and language arts programs.
- Use evidence-based, scientific-driven instructional methods to meet individualized student goals.
- Maintain essential institution security as part of your core duties.
- Collaborate with staff to coordinate educational competencies with social and behavioral adjustments.
Requirements
To be considered, applicants must meet strict criteria:
- Educational Background: A Bachelor’s degree with specific coursework in student teaching, psychology, human development, and teaching methods, plus 24 semester hours in special education.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience or a Ph.D. level of education.
- Clearance: Must pass a thorough background investigation, drug test, and physical exam.
Comparison Table: Why Choose Federal Teaching?
| Feature | Standard Teaching | Federal Correctional Teaching |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Public/Private School | Federal Correctional Facility |
| Focus | Standard Curriculum | Rehabilitation & Reentry |
| Security Role | Minimal | Primary/Integrated |
| Benefits | Varies | Comprehensive Federal Benefits |
Salary Overview
This position is categorized under the GS-11 scale, with an annual salary range of $74,678 to $97,087. This is a competitive compensation package that includes the stability of federal employment and long-term retirement benefits.
Benefits
- Full federal health and life insurance.
- Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Accrued annual and sick leave.
- Professional growth in a unique, high-impact environment.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Ensure every experience entry lists the hours per week and specific dates.
- Documentation: Upload clear, legible transcripts and any required veteran documentation immediately.
- Stay Responsive: Monitor your email closely for assessment links after you submit your application.
Serving as a Special Education Teacher in a federal correctional facility is a challenging yet deeply rewarding path. If you are prepared to combine your instructional talent with a commitment to security and rehabilitation, apply today to start your federal career in Memphis.
Why This Teacher (Special Education) (Special Education Teacher) Job Matters
Make a transformative impact on students in a correctional setting as a Special Education Teacher with the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Teacher (Special Education) (Special Education Teacher) Job Overview
Join the Department of Justice within the Federal Bureau of Prisons in Memphis, Tennessee. This role is dedicated to fostering a secure, humane environment while providing essential educational opportunities to inmates with special learning needs. You will be responsible for developing and implementing specialized curricula designed to facilitate successful reentry into the community, balancing instructional excellence with essential correctional security responsibilities.
Requirements for Teacher (Special Education) (Special Education Teacher)
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Bachelor's degree with supervised student teaching and specific coursework in psychology, human development, history/philosophy of education, and teaching methods.
- 24 semester hours of specialized coursework in special education.
- At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level OR a Ph.D./three years of graduate education.
- Ability to pass a background investigation, physical, and urinalysis.
- Successful completion of a three-week training course in Glynco, Georgia.
- Maximum entry age of 36 applies (exceptions for veteran preference/prior federal law enforcement service).
- Must be able to maintain institution security as a priority.
Preferred Qualifications for Teacher (Special Education) (Special Education Teacher)
- Experience in designing and implementing instructional materials tailored to special learning needs.
- Proficiency in administering and analyzing diagnostic special education and literacy assessments.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement individual educational plans (IEPs) and prescriptive teaching techniques.
- Experience with data-driven instruction and evaluating student progress.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary (GS-11 grade level)
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
💡 How to Apply Teacher (Special Education) (Special Education Teacher) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Teacher (Special Education) (Special Education Teacher) Job
- Review the full announcement and ensure you meet all qualifications.
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Prepare a resume that clearly lists duties, start/end dates (MM/YYYY), and hours worked per week.
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts, DD-214, or SF-50.
- Submit your application through the online portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for a link to the USA Hire Assessments if prompted.
- Complete the required assessments within the provided timeframe.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates and hours to receive credit for experience.
- Avoid using special characters in your file names when uploading documents.
- Complete all online questionnaires carefully; inconsistencies may result in disqualification.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.
- Use the USAJOBS 'Track this application' feature to monitor your status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of this role?
The role involves planning and teaching specialized educational programs to inmates with special learning needs to prepare them for successful community reentry, while also maintaining the security of the correctional facility.
Is there a maximum age limit for this position?
Yes, there is a maximum entry age of 36 for original appointments within the Bureau of Prisons, though exceptions exist for preference-eligible veterans and those with prior federal law enforcement coverage.
Do I need to undergo training?
Yes, successful candidates must complete a mandatory three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training course in Glynco, Georgia.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons, an arm of the U.S. Department of Justice, manages a network of correctional facilities designed to provide safe and humane confinement. The education department within these institutions is vital, as research consistently shows that education is a primary driver of successful inmate reentry into society.