Launch Your Career as a Recreation Specialist in Leavenworth
Are you looking for a career that combines your passion for recreation with the mission of public service? The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is currently seeking a highly motivated individual to serve as a Recreation Specialist at our facility in Leavenworth, Kansas. This unique role allows you to influence the lives of others by fostering physical health, social responsibility, and creative outlets within an institutional environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Recreation Specialist, your day-to-day work is diverse and impactful. You will report to the Recreation Supervisor and perform a variety of duties including:
- Program Development: Planning and evaluating athletic, social, and creative activities tailored to an inmate population.
- Operational Oversight: Managing daily recreation schedules, tournament brackets, and facility equipment.
- Resource Management: Budgeting for new sports gear and maintaining inventory records.
- Correctional Security: Acting as a member of the facility staff to ensure the safety and security of the institution, which remains a top priority at all times.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must demonstrate a mix of education and experience.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in recreation, physical education, or related field. |
| Experience | 1+ years of specialized experience equivalent to lower grade levels. |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen. |
| Age Limit | Maximum entry age of 36 (some exceptions apply). |
Salary Overview
This position is structured within the GL grade scale, with a salary range of $58,122 to $83,644 per year. Compensation is determined based on qualifications, experience, and federal pay schedules.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package that supports long-term growth and personal well-being, including:
- Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
- Paid annual leave, sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Extensive professional training and career advancement paths within the Department of Justice.
Application Tips
- Format Your Resume: Keep your resume to 2 pages and ensure every role clearly lists hours worked per week and start/end dates in MM/YYYY format.
- Documentation is Key: Scan and upload all required documents (transcripts, DD-214) clearly. Avoid using special symbols in file names.
- Prepare for Assessments: Once you apply, you will receive a link to the USA Hire assessment. Use the provided study resources to ensure you are ready to succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if I have prior federal law enforcement service? A: You may be exempt from the maximum entry age of 36. Please provide your SF-50 to verify your prior coverage.
Q: Is this a remote role? A: No, this position requires on-site work in a correctional facility to ensure security and program facilitation.
Serving as a Recreation Specialist is more than just a job; it is a chance to use your leadership skills to build a safer, more productive community. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to contribute to a vital federal mission, we encourage you to submit your application package before the deadline. Your path to a rewarding federal career starts here in Leavenworth.
Why This Recreation Specialist - Institutional (Recreation Specialist) Job Matters
Turn your passion for recreation into a meaningful career that makes a difference in public safety and inmate rehabilitation.
Recreation Specialist - Institutional (Recreation Specialist) Job Overview
The Bureau of Prisons is seeking a dedicated Recreation Specialist to join our team in Leavenworth, Kansas. In this role, you will be instrumental in designing and implementing comprehensive recreational programs that promote physical, creative, and social development. Beyond managing sports and leisure activities, you will serve as a vital part of the correctional team, contributing to a secure and humane environment that helps individuals prepare for a successful return to society.
Requirements for Recreation Specialist - Institutional (Recreation Specialist)
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Must meet the maximum entry age requirement of 36 (exceptions apply for preference-eligible veterans and those with prior federal law enforcement coverage).
- Must complete a three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training course in Glynco, Georgia.
- Ability to pass comprehensive background investigations, physicals, and drug screenings.
- Completion of required USA Hire Assessments.
- Must possess a bachelor's or graduate degree in recreation, physical education, or a closely related field, OR possess equivalent specialized experience.
Preferred Qualifications for Recreation Specialist - Institutional (Recreation Specialist)
- Experience organizing and supervising tournaments or large-scale team sports.
- Proven ability to manage facility recreation budgets and equipment procurement.
- Experience developing curriculum-based recreational programs.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to instruct and lead diverse groups.
- Proficiency in administrative tracking and reporting software.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and step increases.
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) benefits.
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style) with employer matching.
- ✓Generous leave policies, including paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Access to ongoing professional development and institutional training.
💡 How to Apply Recreation Specialist - Institutional (Recreation Specialist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Recreation Specialist - Institutional (Recreation Specialist) Job
- Visit the USAJOBS portal and log into your account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and gather all required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 forms.
- Complete the online application questionnaire and upload your resume (limited to 2 pages).
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM (ET) closing deadline.
- Monitor your email for a unique link to the USA Hire Assessments and complete them within the specified timeframe.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes start/end dates in MM/YYYY format and hours worked per week for each role.
- Do not use special characters in file names (e.g., #, @, %).
- Request your official transcripts early to avoid delays, as they are required upon selection.
- Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice before taking your assessments.
- Double-check your eligibility for veteran preference and upload your DD-214 or SF-15 immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum entry age for this position?
The maximum entry age is 36. However, qualified preference-eligible veterans or those with prior federal law enforcement coverage may be exempt.
Is travel required for this job?
The position requires attendance at a three-week training program in Glynco, Georgia, but generally functions within the institutional setting in Leavenworth.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons, a branch of the Department of Justice, manages more than 100 institutions across the United States. Our mission is to protect society by confining offenders in controlled environments that are safe, humane, and secure. We believe that by providing meaningful, structured recreational opportunities, we can better prepare individuals for a successful, crime-free transition back into their communities.