Become a Leader in Corrections: Supervisory Correctional Officer (Captain)
If you have a strong background in corrections and are looking to step into a high-impact leadership role, the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is currently hiring for the position of Supervisory Correctional Officer (Captain). This GS-12 level role is vital to the safety and security of federal facilities across the United States. If you are passionate about public service, security management, and inmate rehabilitation, this is your opportunity to join one of the most respected law enforcement agencies in the country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Captain, you are the department head for Correctional Services. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Security Oversight: Ensuring total institutional security and managing inmate conduct.
- Crisis Management: Taking the lead during emergencies and high-pressure situations.
- Staff Mentorship: Training and supervising correctional officers to maintain professional standards.
- Operational Planning: Developing schedules, post orders, and budgets for the department.
- Policy Implementation: Advising the Warden on institutional procedures and ensuring staff compliance.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
- Training: Successful completion of the "Introduction to Correctional Techniques" course.
- Fitness: Ability to pass a background check, physical exam, and urinalysis.
- Age: Maximum entry age of 36.
Comparison Table: Qualifications & Expectations
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-12 |
| Education | Specialized experience required (No sub) |
| Security Clearance | Other |
| Probationary Period | 1 Year |
| Primary Function | Facility Security & Staff Management |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary based on the Rest of US pay scale, ranging from $91,985 to $140,925 annually. Exact compensation depends on the specific geographic locality of the facility you are assigned to.
Benefits
Employees of the Federal Bureau of Prisons receive a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Health, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
- Federal retirement options (FERS).
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- Paid vacation and sick leave.
- Professional training programs.
Application Tips
- Resume Format: Keep your resume to two pages or less. Use standard formats (MM/YYYY) for dates.
- Documentation: Include performance appraisals and award letters if you have them, as these receive due weight in the selection process.
- Clarity: Use clear, non-special-character filenames for all attachments.
Serving as a Supervisory Correctional Officer is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the rule of law and the safety of our republic. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to lead, we encourage you to submit your application and join the Federal Bureau of Prisons today.
Why This Supervisory Correctional Officer (Captain Gs-12) Job Matters
Take charge of institutional security and lead a mission-driven team as a Supervisory Correctional Officer (Captain). Join the Federal Bureau of Prisons and make a direct impact on public safety and inmate rehabilitation.
Supervisory Correctional Officer (Captain Gs-12) Job Overview
The Federal Bureau of Prisons is seeking experienced leaders to serve as Supervisory Correctional Officers at the GS-12 level. In this pivotal role, you will function as the department head for Correctional Services at a federal prison facility. You will serve as the primary expert on custodial operations, security protocols, and staff management, ensuring the safety of personnel, inmates, and the surrounding community. This position offers the opportunity to shape institutional policy and mentor staff in a dynamic, high-stakes environment.
Requirements for Supervisory Correctional Officer (Captain Gs-12)
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Must pass a background investigation, urinalysis, and physical examination.
- Subject to NCIC and credit checks.
- Must be able to carry a firearm and complete necessary training.
- Must successfully complete the three-week Introduction to Correctional Techniques course in Glynco, GA.
- Must accept potential geographic relocation based on agency needs.
- One-year probationary period required for new supervisors.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Correctional Officer (Captain Gs-12)
- Expertise in developing and implementing complex post orders.
- Proficiency in managing biweekly and daily staffing assignment rosters.
- Experience facilitating staff training on correctional procedures.
- Background in managing departmental budgets and resource allocation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Health Insurance
- ✓Federal Retirement Pension Plan (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Paid Annual and Sick Leave
- ✓Life Insurance Options
- ✓Training and Professional Development
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Correctional Officer (Captain Gs-12) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Correctional Officer (Captain Gs-12) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Ensure your resume includes detailed contact info, duties, hours per week, and specific dates of employment.
- Upload required supporting documents, such as SF-50s or transcripts.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the monthly cut-off date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages or less; longer resumes may be disqualified.
- Ensure your resume clearly lists the number of hours worked per week for every position.
- Do not use special characters like # or @ when naming your uploaded PDF documents.
- Review your responses to the online questionnaire against your resume content to ensure consistency.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the cut-off date approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age requirement for this position?
Per federal law, a maximum entry age of 36 has been established for initial appointment to a position in a Bureau of Prisons institution.
What is the typical salary for this role?
The salary range is $91,985 to $140,925 per year, depending on the specific locality of the facility.
Is relocation assistance available?
Relocation assistance is not explicitly listed, but the incumbent is subject to geographic relocation to meet the needs of the agency.
Can I apply if I am not a current federal employee?
Yes, check the eligibility criteria listed in the job announcement.
How do I know the status of my application?
You can check your status at any time via your USAJOBS account dashboard.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons is tasked with protecting society by confining offenders in safe, humane, and secure environments. We provide work and self-improvement opportunities to help offenders transition back into society as law-abiding citizens. As a member of our team, you become part of a model organization dedicated to public administration and correctional excellence.