Launch Your Administrative Career with the Bureau of Prisons

Are you looking for a stable, high-impact career in the federal government? The Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to serve as a Secretary at the Bureau of Prisons in Philadelphia, PA. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the nation’s correctional system while developing professional administrative skills in a high-security, collaborative environment.

Job Responsibilities

The Secretary role is essential to the day-to-day operations of the institution. You will serve as the administrative backbone, handling:

Communication: Screening calls, greeting visitors, and directing inquiries to the appropriate staff members.
Documentation: Drafting memoranda, reports, and letters, while maintaining accurate records and regulatory files.
Operations: Managing calendars, scheduling meetings, coordinating travel, and performing time and attendance tracking.
Security Support: Assisting with the maintenance of a secure environment by managing sensitive information and coordinating with institutional staff.

Core Competencies

Competency	Importance
Attention to Detail	Critical for regulatory compliance
Interpersonal Skills	Essential for dealing with staff/inmates
Stress Tolerance	Vital for a correctional environment
Technical Literacy	Required for office automation tasks

Requirements

To qualify for this role, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet the specialized experience requirements equivalent to the next lower grade level. Key requirements include:

Proficiency with personal computers and office software.
Ability to clear a thorough background investigation, including credit and criminal history checks.
Successful completion of a pre-employment physical and drug test.
Mandatory participation in a three-week training course at Glynco, Georgia.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $58,376 to $73,386 per year. In addition to your salary, you will enjoy a robust federal benefits package, which includes:

Comprehensive health insurance programs.
Retirement savings via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid federal holidays.

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your relevant experience, including dates (MM/YYYY) and hours worked per week.
Documentation is Key: If claiming veterans' preference, ensure all required forms (DD-214, SF-15) are attached at the time of submission.
Prepare for Assessments: You will be required to take the USA Hire Assessments. Utilize the online practice tools available to familiarize yourself with the format.

Joining the Bureau of Prisons is more than just a job; it is a commitment to public service and personal growth. If you are ready to apply your administrative expertise in a challenging and rewarding setting, submit your application today.

Why This Secretary Job Matters

Launch your federal career in Philadelphia with the Bureau of Prisons! Provide essential administrative support while contributing to a secure, professional, and humane correctional environment.

Secretary Job Overview

The Department of Justice, Bureau of Prisons, is seeking a dedicated Secretary to join their team in Philadelphia, PA. This role is pivotal in maintaining the administrative efficiency of a correctional institution, involving tasks ranging from document preparation and scheduling to coordinating meetings and managing official communications. As part of a mission-critical team, you will ensure that institutional operations run smoothly while upholding high standards of security and professional integrity.

Requirements for Secretary

U.S. Citizenship
Must be able to pass a background investigation and security screening
Must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening
Willingness to complete a three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training course in Glynco, Georgia
Minimum age requirements may apply for initial appointment
Completion of required USA Hire Assessments
One year of specialized administrative experience equivalent to the next lower grade level

Preferred Qualifications for Secretary

Proficiency in office automation and computer software
Experience managing calendars and travel arrangements
Strong transcription and document drafting capabilities
Ability to manage sensitive documentation with discretion
Experience in customer service and professional telephone etiquette

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS
✓Thrift Savings Plan (similar to 401k)
✓Paid federal holidays
✓Accrued sick and annual leave
✓Opportunities for professional training and development

💡 How to Apply Secretary Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Secretary Job

Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
Click the Apply Online button in the job announcement.
Complete the online questionnaire and attach required documents.
Submit your application package before the closing date.
Monitor your email for a link to the USA Hire Assessments.
Complete the assessments within the allotted timeframe.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and includes specific hours worked per week.
Submit all required documents, such as SF-50s or transcripts, at the time of application.
Double-check that all file names avoid special characters like symbols.
Start your USA Hire Assessments as soon as you receive the link to avoid technical delays.
Practice using the available online resources for federal assessments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this position?

As a Secretary within the Bureau of Prisons, you provide the administrative infrastructure necessary for correctional programs to operate safely and effectively.

Are there specific physical requirements for this job?

Yes, applicants must pass a physical examination and drug screening, as you will be working within a correctional institution environment.

Can I edit my application after I have submitted it?

You can modify your application as long as the job announcement is still open by logging into your USAJOBS account and selecting the edit option.

Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System

The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is responsible for the custody and care of federal inmates. Our mission goes beyond incarceration; we aim to foster a safe, secure, and humane environment that prepares individuals for successful reentry into society. As an employee of the Bureau of Prisons, you are part of a team dedicated to public safety and professional integrity.