Become a Leader in National Corrections: Chief, Jails Division
The National Institute of Corrections (NIC) is searching for a visionary leader to serve as the Chief of its Jails Division. This high-impact role is designed for seasoned correctional executives ready to influence national policy and operations. If you are passionate about public safety, offender transition, and organizational excellence, this position offers the unique opportunity to shape the landscape of local, state, and federal jail systems.
Job Responsibilities
As the Chief of the Jails Division, you will oversee a wide range of administrative and programmatic functions:
- Policy Leadership: Developing and implementing national policy recommendations.
- Strategic Management: Directing fiscal operations, cooperative agreements, and contract administration.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Acting as a lead representative for the NIC with national, state, and local agencies.
- Operational Oversight: Evaluating the effectiveness of jail programs and providing technical assistance.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must demonstrate significant experience in the field:
- Specialized Experience: At least one year of administrative experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Selective Placement Factor: A non-negotiable requirement for 5+ years of executive experience in federal, state, or local correctional systems focusing on policy, training, or technology implementation.
- Background Checks: Ability to pass comprehensive credit and criminal history screenings.
Grade Level Comparison
| Feature | GS-14 Expectations | GS-15 Expectations |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Complex local/jail issues | Agency-wide/National trends |
| Planning | Policy recommendations | Long-term organizational goals |
| Analysis | Regulatory impact analysis | Complex research-based strategy |
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $125,776 to $192,331 per year. Please note that the final compensation package may vary depending on the specific duty station and local salary tables.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Justice enjoy a robust federal benefits package:
- Comprehensive Health, Vision, and Dental insurance.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System.
- Flexible spending accounts and life insurance.
- Paid annual and sick leave, plus federal holidays.
Application Tips
Success in your application begins with clarity. Ensure your resume explicitly details your management roles. When citing your 5-year executive experience, provide specific examples of policies you designed or training sessions you led. Avoid generic descriptions; use metrics to define your accomplishments.
This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to define the standards for jails across the nation. If you meet the criteria and are ready to take on this leadership challenge, prepare your application materials today.
Why This Correctional Program Officer, (Chief, Jails Division) Job Matters
Shape the future of national correctional policy as the Chief of the Jails Division with the National Institute of Corrections.
Correctional Program Officer, (Chief, Jails Division) Job Overview
The Department of Justice and the Bureau of Prisons are seeking an expert leader to serve as the Correctional Program Officer (Chief, Jails Division) for the National Institute of Corrections (NIC). This high-level administrative role is pivotal in managing national correctional programs, overseeing policy development, and providing strategic direction to improve jail operations across the United States. You will serve as a key liaison between the NIC, federal, state, and local agencies, ensuring that correctional standards are met through rigorous evaluation, training initiatives, and effective administrative leadership.
Requirements for Correctional Program Officer, (Chief, Jails Division)
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
- Must meet the Selective Placement Factor: 5+ years of executive/managerial experience in federal, state, or local correctional systems.
- Must successfully pass a background investigation, credit check, and drug screening.
- Ability to commit to a one-year probationary period for supervisory/managerial roles.
- Must maintain eligibility for agency-specific security requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Correctional Program Officer, (Chief, Jails Division)
- Extensive experience in developing national correctional policy guidelines.
- Proven track record in managing cooperative agreements and large-scale government contracts.
- Advanced ability to deliver training on jail-based technologies and offender transition strategies.
- Strong proficiency in public relations and professional networking within the criminal justice sector.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Generous leave policies including annual and sick leave
- ✓Career advancement and development opportunities within the Department of Justice
- ✓Opportunities for professional networking at a national level
💡 How to Apply Correctional Program Officer, (Chief, Jails Division) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Correctional Program Officer, (Chief, Jails Division) Job
- Register for an account on USAJOBS if you have not already.
- Prepare a resume that explicitly addresses the 5-year Selective Placement Factor and includes hours worked per week.
- Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
- Ensure all required documentation (SF-50, transcripts, DD-214, etc.) is uploaded in a legible, non-special character file format.
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
- Monitor your status via the online application system.
💡 General Tips
- Address the Selective Placement Factor directly in your resume to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Ensure your resume format uses MM/YYYY for all experience and clearly identifies hours worked per week.
- Avoid using special characters like @, #, or % in your saved file names.
- Review your application thoroughly; incomplete submissions will not be considered.
- If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure your DD-214 and SF-15 are attached at the time of application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Chief, Jails Division?
The Chief manages the NIC's Jails Division, focusing on program planning, policy development, technical assistance for local jails, and high-level engagement with national correctional stakeholders.
Can I substitute education for the required experience?
No, there is no substitution of education for the specialized experience required for this GS-14/15 level position.
What happens if I do not meet the Selective Placement Factor?
Possession of the Selective Placement Factor is mandatory; if you do not meet this requirement, you will be found ineligible for the position.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Relocation benefits are not typically included; please refer to the specific job announcement details.
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
Yes, this position is open to the public.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The National Institute of Corrections, an agency within the Federal Bureau of Prisons (Department of Justice), serves as the primary provider of training, technical assistance, and information for the correctional field. The agency is dedicated to fostering humane and secure environments while preparing individuals for successful reentry into society.