Launch Your Career as a Correctional Program Specialist
The Bureau of Prisons (BOP) plays a fundamental role in the American justice system. The agency is currently looking for dedicated individuals to fill the role of Correctional Program Specialist (Intelligence Research Specialist). If you possess a keen analytical mind, experience in correctional operations, and a desire to contribute to public safety, this position offers a unique career path within the federal government.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be much more than a typical administrator. Key duties include:
- Intelligence Gathering: Coordinating with the Counter-Terrorism Unit to analyze data regarding high-risk inmate groups.
- Counter-Intelligence: Preventing illicit information gathering by sophisticated elements of the inmate population.
- Law Enforcement Liaison: Serving as the point of contact for the FBI, DEA, and U.S. Marshals when referring criminal cases for prosecution.
- Security Oversight: Ensuring the physical and operational security of the facility on a daily basis.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Feature | GL-09 | GS-11 |
|---|---|---|
| Education Requirement | Master's or 2 years grad study | Ph.D. or 3 years grad study |
| Experience Focus | Basic link analysis and research | Advanced threat assessments and case management |
| Promotion Potential | Yes | Yes |
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet stringent background check requirements. You must also hold the required graduate education or equivalent specialized experience in correctional administration. All applicants must be physically capable of completing the mandatory training in Glynco, Georgia.
Salary and Benefits
Positions range from $63,780 to $97,087 annually, depending on the specific duty station and pay scales. As a federal employee, you will receive:
- Comprehensive health insurance programs.
- A structured retirement plan with government matching.
- Paid annual leave and sick leave.
- Career advancement opportunities.
Application Tips
- Be Specific: Use clear, concise language in your resume.
- Check Your Docs: Ensure all transcripts and SF-50s are uploaded and legible.
- Meet the Deadlines: All components, including the USA Hire assessments, must be completed by the specified cutoff times.
Serving as a Correctional Program Specialist is a significant responsibility that impacts the safety of the entire country. If you are ready to apply your research skills to a high-stakes environment, review the official posting and begin your application today.
Why This Correctional Program Specialist (Intelligence Research Specialist) Job Matters
Protect the nation and ensure safety within our correctional system as a Correctional Program Specialist, where your intelligence gathering and analytical skills become the first line of defense.
Correctional Program Specialist (Intelligence Research Specialist) Job Overview
The Bureau of Prisons is seeking skilled professionals for the role of Correctional Program Specialist (Intelligence Research Specialist). In this vital role, you will coordinate strategic intelligence collection, manage threat assessments, and serve as a law enforcement liaison. You will work within a correctional environment to ensure the security of the institution, the safety of staff and inmates, and the broader welfare of the surrounding community.
Requirements for Correctional Program Specialist (Intelligence Research Specialist)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Must meet the minimum entry age requirements for Bureau of Prisons law enforcement positions.
- Satisfactory completion of a background investigation, urinalysis, and physical exam.
- Ability to carry a firearm and completion of the Introduction to Correctional Techniques training course in Glynco, Georgia.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Relevant graduate education (Master’s, J.D., or Ph.D. depending on the grade level).
Preferred Qualifications for Correctional Program Specialist (Intelligence Research Specialist)
- Experience in correctional administration, criminology, psychology, or sociology.
- Proven track record in conducting threat analysis or security threat group investigations.
- Ability to work effectively with inmates and maintain high standards of institutional security.
- Demonstrated skill in training subordinates and evaluating program effectiveness.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
💡 How to Apply Correctional Program Specialist (Intelligence Research Specialist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Correctional Program Specialist (Intelligence Research Specialist) Job
- Prepare your federal resume (max 2 pages) including specific hours worked per week.
- Gather supporting documents such as SF-50s, transcripts, and performance appraisals.
- Submit your application through the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
- Complete the required online questionnaires and assessment components.
- Monitor your email for a unique link to the USA Hire assessment, if applicable.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes start and end dates in MM/YYYY format for every position.
- Clearly define your role and responsibilities to ensure they map to the specialized experience required.
- Do not use special characters in your filenames for uploaded documents.
- Review your application thoroughly before submission, as edits are not possible after the window closes.
- Practice using the resources available on the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of this position?
This position focuses on gathering and analyzing intelligence related to inmate groups, preventing security breaches, and acting as a liaison between the Bureau of Prisons and external federal law enforcement agencies.
Is travel required for this job?
Yes, the position requires travel as part of the core job duties, including a mandatory three-week training course at the federal facility in Glynco, Georgia.
Can I apply if I am not a federal employee?
The announcement is open to specific hiring paths, including internal agency staff and those with reinstatement eligibility. Please check the 'Who May Apply' section on the official listing.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons is responsible for the custody and care of federal inmates. Their mission is to foster a safe, humane, and secure environment. As part of the Department of Justice, the BOP provides a rigorous and challenging professional environment for those looking to protect the community through institutional management.