Launch Your Career: Safety & Occupational Health Specialist at the Bureau of Prisons

Are you a safety professional with a passion for public service? The Bureau of Prisons is currently hiring for a Safety & Occupational Health Specialist in Inez, Kentucky. This role is pivotal in maintaining the secure, humane, and efficient operations of a federal correctional institution.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will be the eyes and ears of the facility’s safety protocols. Key duties include:

Inspections: Conducting comprehensive environmental and safety inspections.
Incident Investigation: Examining accidents, gathering witness statements, and identifying root causes to prevent future occurrences.
Training: Developing and leading safety workshops for both staff and inmates.
Compliance: Ensuring all facility operations align with federal safety policies.

Comparison Table: GL-07 vs GL-09

Feature	GL-07 Specialist	GL-09 Specialist
Experience	Entry/Developmental	Full Performance
Independence	Assisted/Supervised	Independent Evaluation
Expectation	Learn technical standards	Apply complex hazard mitigation

Requirements

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

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Education: A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or at least 24 semester hours in related disciplines such as safety, industrial hygiene, or engineering.
Age: A maximum entry age of 36 applies.
Training: Completion of the specialized training program in Glynco, Georgia is required.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $57,188 to $82,301 per year. As a federal employee, you will also receive:

Healthcare: Access to top-tier health, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement: Excellent pension plans and a Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401k).
Work-Life Balance: Generous paid leave, including vacation and sick days.

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly states the months and years of your experience and the hours worked per week.
Document Everything: Upload your transcripts and SF-50 forms early to avoid last-minute technical errors.
Prepare for Assessments: Use the official resources provided by the OPM to practice for the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.

Serving as a Safety & Occupational Health Specialist is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety of our communities and the integrity of our justice system. Apply by September 9, 2026, to join our team in Inez, Kentucky.

Why This Safety & Occupational Health Specialist (Safety Specialist) Job Matters

Protect lives and ensure justice by leading essential safety initiatives at the federal level.

Safety & Occupational Health Specialist (Safety Specialist) Job Overview

The Bureau of Prisons is seeking a dedicated Safety & Occupational Health Specialist to join our team in Inez, Kentucky. This vital role focuses on maintaining a secure, safe environment for both staff and inmates. You will conduct rigorous inspections, provide expert training, and develop proactive policies to mitigate hazards, all while upholding the integrity of the federal correctional system. This position offers a unique chance to impact public safety while advancing your career within the Department of Justice.

Requirements for Safety & Occupational Health Specialist (Safety Specialist)

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Completion of a background investigation, urinalysis, and physical exam.
Must pass National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and credit checks.
Must be able to carry a firearm (following required qualification inquiries).
Must successfully complete the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training in Glynco, Georgia.
Maximum entry age of 36 applies for original appointment to this Bureau of Prisons position.
Must meet specialized experience requirements or appropriate combinations of graduate education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications for Safety & Occupational Health Specialist (Safety Specialist)

Graduate degree (Master's, LL.B, or J.D.) in a field related to safety, occupational health, or industrial hygiene.
Professional certification in safety or occupational health management.
Demonstrated experience in conducting workplace hazard assessments and accident trend analysis.
Experience delivering safety training and instruction to diverse audiences.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary and pay scale growth.
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Robust retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and TSP.
✓Paid annual and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for professional development and specialized training.
✓Life insurance and flexible spending accounts.

💡 How to Apply Safety & Occupational Health Specialist (Safety Specialist) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Safety & Occupational Health Specialist (Safety Specialist) Job

Review the full job announcement and requirements.
Prepare your federal resume (limited to 2 pages).
Gather supporting documents such as transcripts, SF-50 forms, and performance appraisals.
Complete the online application and questionnaires via the official portal.
Submit your application before the closing date of September 9, 2026.
Monitor your email for instructions regarding the USA Hire Assessment.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly details the hours worked per week for every position listed.
Save documents with clear names like 'Transcripts' or 'SF-50' without special characters.
Use the 'Track this application' feature in your USAJOBS account to stay updated.
Set aside at least two hours for the USA Hire Assessments and ensure you have a stable internet connection.
Review your responses carefully before submitting, as score adjustments may occur if evidence is missing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age limit for this position?

Per 5 U.S.C. 3307, the maximum entry age for an original appointment to a Bureau of Prisons institution position is 36.

Is the position telework eligible?

No, this position is not eligible for telework due to the on-site nature of the safety and security duties.

Will I have to travel?

Yes, travel may be required, including attendance at the initial three-week training session in Glynco, Georgia.

Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System

The Federal Bureau of Prisons, an agency within the Department of Justice, is responsible for the care and custody of federal inmates. Our mission centers on public safety, individual rehabilitation, and the security of our facilities. Employees are the backbone of this organization, ensuring that every institution adheres to the highest standards of safety and professional conduct.