Advance Your Career as a Supervisory Correctional Officer (Lieutenant)
Are you a dedicated corrections professional looking to take the next step in your career? The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is currently hiring for the position of Supervisory Correctional Officer (Lieutenant). This role is essential to the agency’s mission to protect society, ensure public safety, and facilitate the successful reentry of individuals into the community.
About the Federal Bureau of Prisons
The Federal Bureau of Prisons is a division of the Department of Justice, widely respected as a leader in public administration and correctional services. Our goal is to provide a safe, humane, and secure environment for both staff and offenders. By joining the BOP, you become part of a team committed to upholding the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lieutenant, you will be responsible for the direction of a shift, managing a team of correctional officers assigned to various critical posts. Your daily duties will include:
- Operational Oversight: Implementing the directives of the Captain regarding inmate programs, security, and work assignments.
- Leadership: Mentoring staff, assessing morale, and monitoring officer performance.
- Security Management: Leading efforts to prevent the introduction of contraband and maintaining strict security standards.
- Emergency Response: Authorizing operational changes during emergency situations to maintain facility control.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet several rigorous standards:
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
- Training: Completion of the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' at Glynco, GA.
- Age: Maximum entry age of 36 (with exceptions for prior federal law enforcement).
- Integrity: Ability to pass a background check, urinalysis, and physical assessment.
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $65,545 - $99,674 |
| Security Clearance | Other |
| Education Requirement | No substitution of education for experience |
| Probationary Period | 1 Year |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $65,545 to $99,674, depending on the locality. Additionally, the agency offers a 10% to 13% retention incentive for qualified selectees, making it a highly attractive role for experienced professionals.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is limited to two pages. Clearly define your duties, hours worked per week, and your impact in previous roles. Always attach your most recent SF-50 if you are a current or former federal employee.
Working for the Federal Bureau of Prisons is a rewarding path for those passionate about public service and safety. Start your application today to join a team that makes a real difference in the community.
Why This Supervisory Correctional Officer (Lieutenant Gl-09) Job Matters
Step into a critical leadership role that safeguards our nation’s correctional facilities and paves the way for offender rehabilitation.
Supervisory Correctional Officer (Lieutenant Gl-09) Job Overview
The Federal Bureau of Prisons is seeking dedicated, experienced correctional professionals to serve as Supervisory Correctional Officers (Lieutenants). In this GL-09 role, you will be the backbone of institutional security, leading teams, mentoring staff, and ensuring that daily operations meet the highest standards of safety and administrative excellence. This is a unique opportunity to directly impact the security and future-readiness of individuals housed within the federal system.
Requirements for Supervisory Correctional Officer (Lieutenant Gl-09)
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period upon appointment.
- Must be able to pass a comprehensive background investigation, physical examination, and urinalysis.
- Must be willing to accept geographic relocation based on agency needs.
- Successful completion of the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training course in Glynco, Georgia.
- One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (or equivalent).
- Must meet the maximum entry age requirement of 36 for initial appointment (exceptions apply for prior federal law enforcement coverage).
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Correctional Officer (Lieutenant Gl-09)
- Demonstrated experience overseeing high-responsibility posts such as the Control Center, visitation areas, or perimeter security.
- Prior experience mentoring, training, or providing guidance to junior-level officers.
- Deep working knowledge of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) regulations, policies, and operational procedures.
- Proven track record of success in searching inmate housing or work areas for contraband.
- Strong decision-making skills in high-stress, emergency-prone environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary ranging from $65,545 to $99,674 depending on locality.
- ✓Retention incentives available (10% to 13% based on criteria).
- ✓Federal employee retirement and health benefits.
- ✓Career advancement opportunities within the Department of Justice.
- ✓Comprehensive initial training and ongoing professional development.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Correctional Officer (Lieutenant Gl-09) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Correctional Officer (Lieutenant Gl-09) Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume limited to two pages, including hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided application link.
- Upload all required documentation, including SF-50s and performance appraisals.
- Review your application package for completeness and submit before the monthly cut-off date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise (under 2 pages) and ensure all duties align with the required competencies.
- Be sure to list the number of hours worked per week for every position in your employment history.
- Upload documents in a standard format and avoid using special characters in file names.
- Monitor your status periodically through the USAJOBS dashboard.
- Submit early to ensure all virus scans and processing are completed before the monthly deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age limit for this position?
There is a maximum entry age of 36 for initial appointment, though exceptions may apply for candidates with prior federal law enforcement coverage.
Can I substitute education for experience?
No, this specific position requires specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
Are multiple locations available?
Yes, this position serves numerous locations across the U.S. Please verify your eligibility for specific regional offices before applying.
What is the primary duty of a Lieutenant?
Your primary duty is to supervise a shift of correctional officers and maintain the safety and security of the institution.
Is relocation required?
Yes, incumbents may be subject to geographic relocation to meet the needs of the Bureau.