Launch Your Career as a Correctional Counselor with the Bureau of Prisons

Are you looking for a career that combines public service, security, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of others? The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is currently seeking a Correctional Counselor to join our team in Aliceville, Alabama. This role is not just about security; it is about rehabilitation, mentorship, and ensuring the safety of our communities through professional correctional management.

Job Responsibilities

As a Correctional Counselor, you will serve as a vital link between the inmate population and institutional staff. Your daily duties will include:

Counseling and Intake: Conduct interviews with newly admitted inmates during the Admissions & Orientation process.
Program Management: Develop and implement unit-specific programs that address the individual needs of inmates.
Security Operations: Maintain the security of the institution through regular contact with inmates and enforcement of agency regulations.
Resource Coordination: Act as the unit expert for inmate personal property, package approvals, and trust fund activities.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.
Age: You must be 36 years of age or younger upon entry, unless you are a preference-eligible veteran.
Education/Experience: Either one full academic year of graduate-level study in a related field or at least one year of specialized experience in a field like residential counseling or corrections.
Assessment: You must complete the USA Hire Competency-Based Assessments as part of the application process.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary structure.

Position Level	Salary Range
Correctional Counselor (GL-07)	$57,765 - $73,057

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides a robust array of benefits, including:

Health and life insurance options.
Retirement savings programs.
Paid federal holidays and vacation time.
Opportunities for career advancement and internal promotion.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience in counseling or corrections, including specific hours worked per week.
Upload Documents: Do not forget to attach your transcripts and, if applicable, your DD-214 or SF-50.
Test Promptly: Once you receive the link for the USA Hire assessments, complete them early. These tests are vital to your category rating.

Serving as a Correctional Counselor in Aliceville, Alabama, is a rewarding challenge that requires integrity, patience, and a commitment to justice. If you possess these traits and are ready for a career with the Bureau of Prisons, we encourage you to review the full requirements and submit your application today.

Why This Correctional Officer (Correctional Counselor) Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on public safety and inmate rehabilitation as a Correctional Counselor with the Bureau of Prisons in Aliceville, AL.

Correctional Officer (Correctional Counselor) Job Overview

The Federal Bureau of Prisons is seeking dedicated individuals to join our team in Aliceville, Alabama. As a Correctional Counselor, you will play a critical role in maintaining institutional security while actively fostering an environment conducive to inmate development. You will manage unit programs, provide counseling services, and support successful reentry initiatives for inmates, all while ensuring that facility operations remain secure, humane, and professional.

Requirements for Correctional Officer (Correctional Counselor)

U.S. Citizenship.
Maximum entry age of 36 (exceptions apply for qualified preference-eligible veterans).
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade, or one full academic year of graduate education in criminal justice or a related social science.
Ability to pass a rigorous background investigation, medical examination, and drug screening.
Successful completion of the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training program in Glynco, Georgia.
Ability to perform arduous physical tasks and handle high-stress environments.

Preferred Qualifications for Correctional Officer (Correctional Counselor)

Experience in residential counseling for at-risk populations.
Background in re-entry service coordination.
Proven decision-making capabilities in high-pressure or crisis situations.
Direct experience in a correctional environment managing inmate programs.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal benefits package.
✓Opportunities for professional development and promotion potential up to GS-9.
✓Stable career path within the Department of Justice.
✓Contribution to national public safety efforts.

💡 How to Apply Correctional Officer (Correctional Counselor) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Correctional Officer (Correctional Counselor) Job

Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
Prepare a resume limited to two pages, including specific start/end dates and hours per week.
Complete the online questionnaire and required competency assessments (USA Hire).
Upload all necessary supporting documents, such as transcripts, DD-214, or SF-50.
Submit your application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible and named correctly (e.g., 'Transcripts.pdf').
Do not use special characters in file names to prevent system errors.
Be sure to provide detailed evidence of your relevant experience in your resume.
Complete the USA Hire assessments as soon as possible after submitting your application to avoid last-minute delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age limit for this position?

The maximum entry age for original appointment to this position is 36. Qualified preference-eligible veterans may be exempt from this requirement.

Is travel required for training?

Yes, successful candidates must complete a three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training course located in Glynco, Georgia.

Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System

The Department of Justice, Bureau of Prisons, is responsible for the custody and care of federal inmates. Our mission is to protect society by confining offenders in the controlled environments of prisons and community-based facilities that are safe, humane, and cost-efficient. Employees here are part of a national team dedicated to maintaining order and preparing individuals for a successful return to society.