Become a Correctional Program Specialist: A Leadership Opportunity in Minneapolis

The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is currently seeking a highly qualified professional to fill the role of Correctional Program Specialist (Residential Reentry Manager) in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This position offers a unique opportunity for experienced corrections professionals to lead initiatives that bridge the gap between secure confinement and successful community reintegration.

Job Responsibilities

As a Residential Reentry Manager, you will serve under the Assistant Sector Administrator, taking charge of all functions within the branch for your assigned judicial district. Your core duties will include:

Operational Oversight: Analyzing complex situations regarding the safety of staff, residents, and the surrounding community.
Contract Management: Developing new residential resources and physically inspecting contracts to ensure total compliance with federal requirements.
Training and Mentorship: Providing guidance and specialized training to contract residential staff on operational shifts and updated policies.
Strategic Leadership: Preparing reports for high-ranking officials and ensuring inmate case management aligns with agency objectives.

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-13 position, candidates must meet stringent federal criteria:

Citizenship: Must be a United States citizen.
Experience: One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level, demonstrating profound knowledge of correctional techniques and administrative functions.
Law Enforcement Status: Must possess three years of prior law enforcement coverage gained in a primary position.
Training: Willingness to complete the Introduction to Correctional Techniques (ICT) phases I and II.

Comparison of Qualifications

Requirement Type	Criteria	Notes
Experience	1 Year Specialized	Must match next lower grade level
Law Enforcement	3 Years Primary	Required for coverage eligibility
Citizenship	U.S. Citizen	Mandatory for all federal roles
Training	ICT Phase I & II	Must be completed post-hire

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary ranging from $116,038 to $150,852 per year. The representative rate is $127,643 per annum, reflecting the high level of responsibility and the professional nature of this management role.

Benefits

Employees of the Bureau of Prisons enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Participation in the FERS retirement program with agency matching.
Paid federal holidays and sick/annual leave.
Opportunities for geographic relocation to support career growth.

Application Tips

Use Federal Formatting: Ensure your resume clearly states the number of hours worked per week and uses a month/year date format.
Highlight Accomplishments: Use your performance appraisals to quantify your success in managing correctional programs.
Prepare for Assessment: Your score on the online assessment is the primary factor in determining your ranking for interviews.

This role is an ideal step for a seasoned corrections professional looking to influence reentry success in the Minneapolis district. With competitive pay and the opportunity to shape critical operations, it is a high-impact position for the right candidate.

Why This Correctional Program Specialist (Residential Reentry Manager) Job Matters

Shape the future of public safety and reentry by leading critical correctional programs in Minneapolis.

Correctional Program Specialist (Residential Reentry Manager) Job Overview

The Bureau of Prisons is seeking a dedicated Correctional Program Specialist (Residential Reentry Manager) to oversee Residential Reentry Management operations in the Minneapolis area. This role is pivotal in ensuring that inmates are prepared for successful community reintegration while maintaining the highest standards of safety, security, and administrative compliance. The selected professional will serve as a key administrative leader, guiding contract residential staff and managing complex program elements to foster a secure environment.

Requirements for Correctional Program Specialist (Residential Reentry Manager)

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
Comprehensive knowledge of correctional policies, programs, and administrative procedures.
Demonstrated ability to train subordinates and evaluate operational effectiveness.
Must meet secondary law enforcement coverage requirements (three years of primary law enforcement service).
Ability to complete mandatory Introduction to Correctional Techniques (ICT) Phase I and II training.
Must successfully complete a background investigation, urinalysis, and physical exam.

Preferred Qualifications for Correctional Program Specialist (Residential Reentry Manager)

Proven track record in administrative leadership within a correctional environment.
Experience managing contracts and conducting residential facility inspections.
Strong proficiency in drafting strategic reports, congressional briefings, and policy guidance.
Demonstrated expertise in inmate case management and complex community liaison work.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with advancement potential.
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and life insurance plans.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Opportunities for professional development and specialized law enforcement training.
✓Telework eligibility as permitted by agency policy.
✓Paid federal holidays and generous leave accrual programs.

💡 How to Apply Correctional Program Specialist (Residential Reentry Manager) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Correctional Program Specialist (Residential Reentry Manager) Job

Register for a profile on USAJOBS.gov.
Prepare a resume that explicitly documents your relevant experience with month/year start/end dates and hours per week.
Gather supporting documents, including your latest SF-50, performance appraisal, and any relevant professional certifications.
Complete the online assessment questionnaire linked via the USAJOBS portal.
Submit your application and all required documentation before the closing date of September 9, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and provides specific examples of how you meet the specialized experience requirements.
If applying via CTAP/ICTAP, include all required agency notices and performance documentation to receive priority consideration.
Double-check that all uploaded documents are saved without special characters in the filenames.
Proofread your application materials for clarity and ensure they align with the competencies requested in the job announcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the key focus of this Residential Reentry Manager role?

The focus is on managing the Residential Reentry Management Branch, which involves overseeing contract residential facilities, ensuring compliance with security and safety standards, and preparing inmates for successful transition into the community.

Are there specific law enforcement requirements for this position?

Yes. This is a secondary law enforcement position. Applicants must have at least three years of primary law enforcement experience to be eligible.

Can I substitute education for the required experience?

No, this specific position requires specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level; education cannot be substituted for this requirement.

Is relocation support provided?

Yes, relocation is considered for this position to meet the needs of the agency.

Can I work remotely?

This position is telework-eligible, though not a fully remote role.

Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System

The Department of Justice's Bureau of Prisons is responsible for the custody and care of federal inmates. The agency prioritizes public safety, the humane treatment of incarcerated individuals, and the preparation of inmates for life after release. As a member of the Residential Reentry Management team, you will play a critical role in this mission by overseeing contracts and programs that facilitate a safer transition for residents.