Advance Your Career as a Clinical Psychologist with the Federal Bureau of Prisons

Are you a dedicated psychologist looking to leverage your clinical expertise to foster meaningful change? The Federal Bureau of Prisons is currently accepting applications for a Clinical Psychologist (Drug Abuse Program Coordinator) in Lewis Run, Pennsylvania. This position is a unique opportunity to lead clinical treatment initiatives, provide expert psychological guidance, and ensure that individuals receive the care necessary for successful reintegration into society.

Job Responsibilities

As the Drug Abuse Program Coordinator, your role extends beyond standard counseling. You will be the clinical authority for the facility, responsible for:

Program Leadership: Overseeing approved drug abuse programs, including Residential Drug Abuse Treatment and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT).
Clinical Oversight: Supervising clinical activities and staff, including diagnostic testing and interpretation.
Strategic Advocacy: Serving as a primary resource and advocate for drug treatment initiatives to executive staff and other institutional stakeholders.
Correctional Security: Maintaining the safety and security of the institution, a responsibility that is integrated into every aspect of your professional duties.

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-12 position, you must meet the following criteria:

Requirement	Description
Education	Doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in clinical or counseling psychology.
License	Current, full, unrestricted license to practice at the doctoral level.
Experience	One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
Citizenship	You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.

Salary Overview

This position offers a highly competitive federal salary ranging from $91,757 to $116,362 annually. Furthermore, the agency recognizes the value of experienced clinicians by offering potential recruitment incentives of up to 50% and retention incentives of up to 25% for qualified candidates.

Benefits

Employees of the Federal Bureau of Prisons enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:

Health and life insurance options.
Retirement savings plans (FERS).
Generous paid annual and sick leave.
Opportunities for professional autonomy and growth.

Application Tips

Resume Precision: Keep your resume clear and concise (limited to 2 pages). Ensure you list the number of hours worked per week for every position to receive credit for experience.
Documentation: Ensure all documents, such as transcripts and licenses, are legible and follow the requested naming conventions (no special characters).
Assessment: Answer the application questionnaire honestly and thoroughly, as your responses determine your initial classification.

This role offers a rare combination of high-level clinical responsibility and direct impact on public safety. If you are a licensed psychologist ready for a new challenge in a dynamic federal environment, submit your application by October 29, 2026.

Why This Clinical Psychologist (Drug Abuse Program Coordinator) Job Matters

Make a lasting impact on public safety by leading transformative substance abuse treatment programs in a federal correctional environment.

Clinical Psychologist (Drug Abuse Program Coordinator) Job Overview

The Federal Bureau of Prisons is seeking a dedicated Clinical Psychologist to serve as the Drug Abuse Program Coordinator in Lewis Run, Pennsylvania. In this pivotal role, you will lead clinical initiatives, manage treatment protocols, and provide expert oversight for substance use disorder programs. You will serve as the primary advocate and clinical authority, balancing high-level psychological expertise with a deep commitment to the security and rehabilitation mission of the federal correctional system.

Requirements for Clinical Psychologist (Drug Abuse Program Coordinator)

U.S. Citizenship.
Must hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in clinical or counseling psychology.
Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. State, Territory, or the District of Columbia.
At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
Successful completion of a background investigation, urinalysis, and physical screening.
Completion of the Introduction to Correctional Techniques training course at Glynco, Georgia.

Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Psychologist (Drug Abuse Program Coordinator)

Experience in diagnosing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
Demonstrated expertise in leading individual and group psychotherapy sessions.
Proven track record in developing complex treatment plans and conducting psychosocial interviews.
Strong leadership capabilities in supervising clinical staff and interdisciplinary teams.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary range of $91,757 to $116,362 per year.
✓Potential 50% recruitment incentive for eligible selectees.
✓Potential retention incentive up to 25%.
✓Comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans.
✓Opportunities for professional development and agency advancement.

💡 How to Apply Clinical Psychologist (Drug Abuse Program Coordinator) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Clinical Psychologist (Drug Abuse Program Coordinator) Job

Register for a profile on the official USAJOBS portal.
Prepare a comprehensive, two-page resume highlighting specialized experience and hours worked per week.
Upload all required documentation, including your doctoral transcripts and current state psychologist license.
Complete the online assessment questionnaire to determine your eligibility category.
Submit your application and all required materials by the closing date of October 29, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes month/year start and end dates for all roles to receive proper credit.
Verify that your professional license is unexpired and clearly documented in your upload.
Do not use special characters in file names (e.g., %, #, @) when uploading your transcripts or DD-214.
If you are a current PHS Commissioned Officer, follow the specific alternative submission instructions provided in the vacancy announcement.
Quantify your clinical experience; mention hours worked per week to ensure you meet the 'specialized experience' criteria.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for this position?

Generally, applicants for Bureau of Prisons positions may be subject to age requirements; however, this series allows for consideration at any age, provided an approved age waiver is obtained if applicable.

What is the primary focus of this role?

The focus is on coordinating, directing, and supervising clinical activities related to drug abuse treatment, including Non-residential, Residential, and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) programs.

What if I have prior federal law enforcement coverage?

*A: If you have prior coverage, please submit your SF-50 to verify your service. The agency recognizes specific prior experience regarding age and service requirements.*

Can I apply if I am a current PHS Commissioned Officer?

*A: Yes, there are specific procedures for PHS officers outlined in the job announcement depending on whether you wish to maintain your current status or enter the competitive service.*

Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System

The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is responsible for the custody and care of federal inmates. Our mission centers on public safety and providing a humane, secure, and rehabilitative environment. By joining our team, you become an integral part of an organization dedicated to reducing recidivism through evidence-based treatment and professional clinical oversight.