Lead as a Chief Psychologist with the Federal Bureau of Prisons
Are you ready to take your career as a psychologist to a leadership level? The Department of Justice is currently seeking a highly qualified professional to serve as a Clinical Psychologist and Chief Psychologist at a federal correctional facility in Duluth, Minnesota. This position offers not only a robust salary but also the unique chance to influence organizational development and clinical practices in a high-stakes environment.
Job Responsibilities
As the Chief Psychologist, your role is multifaceted. You will:
- Provide expert guidance to executive staff regarding troubled inmates, including those with disciplinary issues or substance abuse histories.
- Supervise the Psychology Services department staff.
- Manage the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support staff well-being.
- Oversee suicide prevention efforts, including the review of psychological autopsy reports.
- Maintain institutional security, which remains a primary responsibility for all staff.
Qualifications and Requirements
To be eligible, you must hold a doctoral degree in clinical or counseling psychology and maintain a current, unrestricted license.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Ph.D. or equivalent in Psychology |
| License | Current, unrestricted doctoral-level license |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizenship required |
| Training | 3-week correctional techniques course at Glynco, GA |
Salary and Benefits
The GS-13 position offers a competitive salary range of $106,437 to $138,370 per year. Beyond the base compensation, the Bureau of Prisons offers potential recruitment and retention incentives, making this an attractive package for experienced clinicians.
Application Tips
- Document Formatting: Ensure your transcripts and license are legible and clearly saved.
- Detailed Resume: Focus on your clinical and supervisory experience. If you have been a federal employee, include your SF-50.
- Meet the Deadlines: All documentation must be submitted through the USAJOBS portal by September 8, 2026.
Becoming a Chief Psychologist with the Bureau of Prisons is more than a job; it is a commitment to public safety and clinical excellence. If you have the required licensure and a passion for leadership, we encourage you to apply before the closing date.
Why This Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist) Job Matters
Lead correctional psychological services and make a lasting impact on public safety in beautiful Duluth, Minnesota.
Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist) Job Overview
The Bureau of Prisons is seeking a dedicated and experienced Clinical Psychologist to serve as Chief Psychologist in Duluth, Minnesota. In this pivotal leadership role, you will oversee mental health service delivery, manage staff, and provide expert clinical consultation to executive leadership to ensure a secure, humane environment for both inmates and staff.
Requirements for Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in clinical or counseling psychology.
- A full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
- Ability to pass a background investigation, credit check, and pre-employment physical/urinalysis.
- Completion of the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training course in Glynco, GA.
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist)
- Prior experience consulting with management on inmate classification and treatment planning.
- Background in managing suicide prevention programs and psychological autopsy processes.
- Experience managing Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).
- Expertise in clinical supervision and staff leadership within a mental health department.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary range of $106,437 to $138,370.
- ✓Potential for a 50% recruitment incentive for eligible candidates.
- ✓Potential for a 25% retention incentive for eligible candidates.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits and health insurance options.
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
💡 How to Apply Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist) Job
- Prepare your resume (maximum 2 pages) and ensure all relevant dates and hours per week are listed.
- Gather your doctoral transcripts and current state psychology license.
- Register and create a profile on USAJOBS.gov.
- Submit your application and required supporting documents through the online portal by the closing date.
- Complete the mandatory assessment questionnaire.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your license documentation clearly shows the expiration date.
- Use standard file names for uploads (e.g., 'Transcripts', 'License') and avoid special characters.
- If you are a veteran or eligible for career transition programs, include all required documentation (SF-50, DD-214, etc.) at the time of application.
- Double-check that your resume reflects your specific clinical duties to match the specialized experience requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance available?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Do I need to be a certain age to apply?
Applicants can generally be considered at any age for this series; however, specific age waivers may apply for those with prior federal law enforcement coverage.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is dedicated to protecting society by confining offenders in the controlled environments of prisons and community-based facilities that are safe, humane, cost-efficient, and appropriately secure. By joining the BOP, you become part of a professional team focused on inmate rehabilitation and successful community reentry.