Launch Your Federal Career as a Secretary with the Bureau of Prisons
Are you looking for a stable, meaningful career that combines administrative expertise with public service? The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is currently seeking a motivated and organized professional to serve as a Secretary (Captain Secretary) at our facility in Ray Brook, New York. This role is essential to the daily operations of the Correctional Services Department and provides a unique look into the federal justice system.
Job Responsibilities
As the Captain Secretary, your primary role is to provide high-level administrative support to the Captain and Lieutenant staff. Your responsibilities include:
- Communication Management: Serving as the primary point of contact for telephone calls and visitors to the Correctional Services Department.
- Correspondence: Drafting routine letters, reports, and memoranda for leadership signatures.
- Records Maintenance: Establishing and managing files, statistical reports, and essential administrative documentation.
- Technical Assistance: Answering inquiries from staff and inmates regarding general correctional services.
- Institutional Security: Participating in the general security and safety protocols that are mandatory for all Bureau of Prisons employees.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Experience/Education: You must have at least one year of specialized experience at the equivalent grade level or meet the educational requirements (four years above high school level).
- Age Limits: There is a maximum entry age of 36 for original appointments.
- Screening: Successful candidates must pass a physical, urinalysis, and an extensive background investigation.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement | GL-05 Grade | GL-06 Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Needed | 1 Year Specialized | 1 Year Specialized |
| Education Substitution | Available (4 years) | Generally not applicable |
| Core Competency | Document Processing | Office Automation/Coordination |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $50,241 to $66,599 per year. Employees also benefit from the comprehensive federal benefits package, which includes robust retirement options, health insurance, and internal promotion potential within the Bureau of Prisons.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume highlights your experience with specific dates (MM/YYYY) and the number of hours worked per week.
- Documentation: Upload legible copies of your transcripts if you are qualifying based on education.
- Check Status: Use the online portal frequently to ensure all parts of your application, including potential assessments, are completed before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if I have a disability? A: The Bureau of Prisons provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. You may request these during the application process.
Q: Is this role eligible for telework? A: No, this position is currently not eligible for telework or remote status due to the nature of the on-site security responsibilities.
The Secretary (Captain Secretary) role is a fantastic opportunity to serve your country while building a long-term administrative career in a secure and professional environment. If you meet the qualifications and are eager to contribute to the mission of the Federal Bureau of Prisons, apply today before the window closes on September 8, 2026.
Why This Secretary (Captain Secretary) Job Matters
Launch a vital career with the Bureau of Prisons and provide essential administrative leadership in a correctional environment.
Secretary (Captain Secretary) Job Overview
The Federal Bureau of Prisons is seeking a dedicated professional for the Secretary (Captain Secretary) role in Ray Brook, New York. In this pivotal position, you will act as a key administrative support pillar for the Captain and Lieutenant staff. You will manage communications, handle official correspondence, maintain statistical data, and ensure office operations run efficiently. Beyond your administrative duties, you will join a team committed to public safety and institutional security, playing a functional role in the secure environment of our correctional facility.
Requirements for Secretary (Captain Secretary)
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Must pass a comprehensive background check, urinalysis, and physical screening.
- Must complete the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training in Glynco, Georgia.
- Maximum entry age of 36 applies for original appointments to BOP institutions (exceptions apply for eligible veterans and those with prior federal law enforcement coverage).
- Must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level or meet specific educational requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Secretary (Captain Secretary)
- Direct experience in office automation using personal computers.
- Demonstrated ability in composing and editing professional correspondence.
- Proven background in maintaining complex filing systems and statistical databases.
- Skill in coordinating travel, scheduling appointments, and managing calendars for senior staff.
- Ability to maintain composure and professional excellence in a secure, high-stakes environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary package.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the Department of Justice.
- ✓Stability of federal employment.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, retirement, and insurance benefits.
💡 How to Apply Secretary (Captain Secretary) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Secretary (Captain Secretary) Job
- Review the full job announcement and requirements.
- Ensure all necessary documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s, is ready for upload.
- Submit your application through the online portal by the closing date.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire assessments if prompted by the system.
- Monitor your email for status updates and interview notifications.
💡 General Tips
- Double-check your resume to ensure it includes the number of hours worked per week and exact start/end dates.
- Avoid using special characters like @ or # in your filenames when uploading documents.
- Ensure your transcripts are legible and clearly link to your degree or coursework.
- Use the practice materials provided in the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum entry age for this position?
The maximum entry age is 36 for original appointments to Bureau of Prisons institutions, though exceptions exist for veterans and those with specific prior law enforcement experience.
Is training required for this role?
Yes, all successful candidates must complete the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training program located in Glynco, Georgia.
How can I check the status of my application?
You can monitor your application status by logging into your USAJOBS account and navigating to the application dashboard.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is an agency of the U.S. Department of Justice. Our mission is to protect 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 a valued member of a team dedicated to public safety and inmate reentry into society.