Become a Correctional Treatment Specialist: A Career in Rehabilitation and Public Safety
The Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Prisons are looking for passionate, skilled professionals to join the team in Florence, Colorado. As a Correctional Treatment Specialist (Special Population Program Coordinator), you will perform a critical role in the rehabilitation of inmates. This position is perfect for those with a background in psychology, social work, or criminal justice who want to make a tangible difference in community reentry outcomes.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
- Provide comprehensive clinical psychological services to special inmate populations.
- Facilitate individual and group counseling sessions aimed at addressing specific behavioral and social needs.
- Assist in the creation of comprehensive reentry plans, coordinating with community treatment services and probation offices.
- Maintain the security and safety of the correctional facility as a primary responsibility.
- Use trauma-informed techniques to guide group dynamics and participant insights.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Meet the basic education requirement (24 semester hours in behavioral/social sciences).
- Possess three years of graduate education or one year of specialized experience.
- Successfully complete the training requirements at Glynco, Georgia.
Salary and Benefits
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $76,650 - $99,650 per year |
| Retention Incentive | 13% for eligible candidates |
| Career Level | GS-11 |
| Location | Florence, Colorado |
How to Apply
The application process is conducted entirely online through the official portal. Ensure you have your resume, transcripts, and any necessary veteran documentation prepared before starting. Pay close attention to the submission deadline of September 9, 2026.
This role offers more than just a paycheck; it offers a path to meaningful work in the field of public safety. If you have the qualifications and the drive to help others succeed, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Correctional Treatment Specialist (Special Population Program Coordinator) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on public safety and inmate rehabilitation as a Correctional Treatment Specialist at the Bureau of Prisons in Florence, Colorado.
Correctional Treatment Specialist (Special Population Program Coordinator) Job Overview
The Federal Bureau of Prisons is seeking a dedicated professional for the position of Correctional Treatment Specialist (Special Population Program Coordinator) in Florence, Colorado. This pivotal role focuses on delivering clinical psychological services and specialized counseling to targeted inmate populations, playing a direct part in their successful reentry into society. As part of a secure correctional environment, you will work collaboratively to support behavioral objectives, manage group dynamics, and ensure institutional safety. This is a unique opportunity to combine your clinical expertise with correctional operations within the Department of Justice.
Requirements for Correctional Treatment Specialist (Special Population Program Coordinator)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Minimum 24 semester hours of coursework in behavioral or social sciences.
- Three years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in a relevant field.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Ability to pass a background investigation, urinalysis, and physical exam.
- Successful completion of the three-week Introduction to Correctional Techniques training course in Glynco, Georgia.
- Must be under the maximum entry age of 36 (unless eligible for veteran exemptions or prior federal law enforcement coverage).
Preferred Qualifications for Correctional Treatment Specialist (Special Population Program Coordinator)
- Demonstrated experience in trauma-informed process facilitation.
- Proven ability to design and plan trauma-informed group session objectives.
- Strong skills in diagnostic and treatment planning within correctional or criminal justice settings.
- Excellent conflict resolution and group mediation abilities.
- Proficiency in clinical counseling techniques for special populations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary range of $76,650 to $99,650 per year.
- ✓13% retention incentive for eligible selectees.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of Justice.
- ✓Comprehensive federal employee benefits package.
- ✓Participation in a stable, mission-driven career environment.
💡 How to Apply Correctional Treatment Specialist (Special Population Program Coordinator) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Correctional Treatment Specialist (Special Population Program Coordinator) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare your resume, ensuring it includes start/end dates (MM/YYYY) and hours worked per week.
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts, SF-50 (if applicable), and veteran documentation.
- Click the online application link to register or log in.
- Complete the application questionnaire and upload all necessary documents.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 9, 2026.
- Monitor your email for instructions regarding required USA Hire assessments.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages.
- Check all documents for legibility and save them with simple, clear filenames.
- Set aside at least two hours to complete the USA Hire assessments after submission.
- If you are a veteran, include all required documentation (like DD-214 and SF-15) at the time of application to secure preference.
- If you are currently a PHS Commissioned Officer, ensure you follow the specific application instructions provided for your status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Special Population Program Coordinator actually do?
You will function within a federal correctional facility to provide clinical psychological services and counseling to inmates within a specific targeted population to help them address unique needs and prepare for successful community reentry.
Is travel required for this position?
The position involves regular and recurring duties within the correctional institution, and travel requirements are designated as minimal/as needed.
What is the maximum age limit for this position?
There is a maximum entry age of 36 for original appointments in Bureau of Prisons institutions, though exceptions may apply for qualified preference-eligible veterans or those with prior federal law enforcement service.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is responsible for the custody and care of federal inmates. Our mission goes beyond incarceration; we aim to foster a humane and secure environment while preparing individuals to return to their communities as productive citizens. Working with the BOP means joining a mission-driven organization committed to public safety and professional integrity.