Launch Your Career as a Sports Specialist with the Federal Bureau of Prisons
Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for physical education and community impact? The Department of Justice is seeking a motivated Sports Specialist to join the team at the Federal Bureau of Prisons in Forrest City, Arkansas. This unique position offers a challenging yet rewarding career path that blends administrative expertise with a commitment to public safety and rehabilitation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Sports Specialist, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Program Design: Developing, improvising, and adapting recreational activities to meet the diverse interests of the inmate population.
- Tournament Management: Establishing leagues and tournaments to promote maximum participation.
- Correctional Duties: Maintaining institutional security, which takes precedence over all other duties.
- Resource Management: Operating within the limitations of institutional facilities, budgets, and available staff support.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet specific criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Age | Maximum entry age is 36 (exceptions apply) |
| Security | Must pass full background investigation |
| Training | Must complete a 3-week course in Glynco, Georgia |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $63,780 to $82,301 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Employees of the Federal Bureau of Prisons enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Federal retirement plans (FERS)
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with matching
- Paid vacation and sick leave
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume clearly states the hours worked per week and specific dates for all relevant experience.
- Documentation: Upload clear, legible transcripts and military documents if applicable.
- Assessments: Be prepared to complete the USA Hire assessments if invited; these are crucial to your candidacy.
If you are ready to combine your love for sports with a career in public service, apply today. This role is more than just managing games—it is about contributing to a safer society through active mentorship and professional oversight.
Why This Sports Specialist Job Matters
Transform lives and foster rehabilitation through the power of sports. Join the Federal Bureau of Prisons as a Sports Specialist and lead dynamic athletic programs in Forrest City, Arkansas.
Sports Specialist Job Overview
The Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Prisons, is seeking a motivated Sports Specialist to join our team in Forrest City. In this critical role, you will design, implement, and oversee comprehensive recreational sports and fitness programs for inmates. By organizing leagues, tournaments, and leisure-time activities, you play a vital role in our mission to maintain a humane, secure environment and prepare individuals for successful reentry into society. Your work balances athletic instruction with essential correctional security responsibilities.
Requirements for Sports Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.
- Must pass a pre-employment interview, background investigation, urinalysis, and physical.
- Completion of the 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' three-week training course in Glynco, Georgia.
- Maximum entry age of 36 applies (exemptions available for qualified veterans or those with prior federal law enforcement coverage).
- Ability to maintain institutional security as a primary duty.
- Must meet specialized experience requirements or appropriate combination of education and experience.
Preferred Qualifications for Sports Specialist
- Advanced education in Physical Education or a closely related field.
- Documented experience managing or administering sports programs within academic, community, or industrial settings.
- Proven background in planning and evaluating physical education curricula.
- Experience officiating or managing athletic events at the amateur or professional level.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- âś“Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- âś“Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
- âś“Generous leave policies, including vacation and sick time.
- âś“Opportunities for professional training and career development within the Department of Justice.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Sports Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Sports Specialist Job
- Create or update your profile on the official federal hiring portal.
- Prepare a detailed resume (maximum 2 pages) highlighting your specific athletic management experience and hours worked per week.
- Gather supporting documents such as college transcripts and any applicable veteran preference forms (DD-214/SF-15).
- Complete the online application questionnaire thoroughly.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
- If notified, complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments within the specified timeframe.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Read the entire announcement carefully before starting your application.
- Ensure your resume includes start/end dates (MM/YYYY) and average weekly hours for all relevant roles.
- Upload all documents as clear, readable files without special characters in the filenames.
- Do not overstate your qualifications; ensure your resume supports the narrative of your application.
- Use the 'Track Application' feature to monitor your status and check for assessment notifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Sports Specialist in the BOP?
You are responsible for designing, implementing, and supervising leisure-time and intramural sports programs to encourage positive engagement among inmates while maintaining institutional security.
Is a degree required for this position?
Education may be required depending on the grade level, or it can be used in combination with experience. Please refer to the specific educational requirements for GS-9 positions.
What if I need a reasonable accommodation for the assessment?
Reasonable accommodation requests must be submitted and approved before you begin the USA Hire assessments. Please follow the instructions in the job announcement regarding the Rehabilitation Act.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is responsible for the care and custody of federal inmates. Our mission is to foster a humane and secure environment that prepares individuals for successful reentry into their communities. By offering diverse programs—including sports and recreation—we encourage discipline, teamwork, and healthy lifestyle choices.