Become a Horticulture Vocational Training Instructor with the Federal Bureau of Prisons

Are you a horticulture expert with a passion for teaching? The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is offering a unique opportunity for professionals to share their skills in a meaningful way. As a Vocational Training Instructor, you will work within the Education Department of a correctional facility in Coleman, Florida, helping individuals gain the knowledge and certification needed to build a brighter future.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will be the lead instructor for vocational courses related to horticulture. Key responsibilities include:

Curriculum Delivery: Instructing students in plant production, landscape maintenance, and arboriculture.
Program Development: Creating learning plans that meet industry standards.
Coordination: Serving as the apprenticeship coordinator for various trades.
Security: Maintaining a safe and secure environment, which is the top priority for all BOP employees.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must meet several key criteria:

Experience/Education: A blend of relevant vocational experience or academic training in an education-related field.
Credentialing: A valid industry-recognized horticulture credential.
Work History: At least two years of recent hands-on experience in the field.
Training: Completion of a three-week introductory course in Glynco, Georgia.

Comparison of Qualifications

Requirement	Description
Education	Master's degree or equivalent graduate-level coursework.
Experience	2+ years of horticulture experience (within last 4 years).
Credential	Industry certification (e.g., ISA, CNLP).

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $63,780 to $82,301 per year. This compensation reflects the high level of technical expertise and the specialized nature of working in a correctional environment.

Benefits

Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package including:

Health, vision, and dental insurance.
Retirement savings via the FERS and TSP.
Paid leave and federal holidays.
Career advancement and job security within a nationwide agency.

Application Tips

Be Precise: Ensure your resume clearly lists hours worked per week.
Documentation: Don't forget your transcripts and certificates.
Assessments: Monitor your email after applying to complete the USA Hire assessments promptly.

If you are ready to combine your love for plants with a desire to make a lasting difference in people's lives, this role is for you. Submit your application through the USAJOBS portal before the deadline to be considered.

Why This Training Instructor (Vocational Training Instructor - Horticulture) Job Matters

Transform lives through the power of horticulture: Join the Bureau of Prisons as a Vocational Training Instructor and lead the way in correctional rehabilitation.

Training Instructor (Vocational Training Instructor - Horticulture) Job Overview

The Federal Bureau of Prisons is seeking a dedicated Horticulture Vocational Training Instructor for our facility in Coleman, Florida. In this vital role, you will combine your technical expertise in plant science with a passion for teaching, helping individuals gain marketable skills, achieve industry certifications, and prepare for successful reentry into society. You will serve as both an educator and a mentor, maintaining a secure facility environment while facilitating hands-on, trade-focused curriculum.

Requirements for Training Instructor (Vocational Training Instructor - Horticulture)

U.S. Citizenship.
Must meet the maximum entry age requirement of 36 for original appointment (with exceptions for qualified veterans and those with prior federal law enforcement coverage).
Valid industry-recognized Horticulture credential (e.g., CNLP, ISA Certified Arborist, or equivalent).
Minimum of 2 years of verifiable Horticulture work experience within the last 4 years.
Successful completion of a background investigation, urinalysis, and physical exam.
Ability to complete the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training course in Glynco, Georgia.

Preferred Qualifications for Training Instructor (Vocational Training Instructor - Horticulture)

Experience in developing individualized learning plans and vocational curricula.
Proven background in instructing diverse student populations in institutional settings.
Proficiency in commercial horticulture practices including irrigation, pest management, and greenhouse operations.
Expertise in aligning educational programs with Department of Labor or industry-specific certification standards.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Generous retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave accrual.
✓Structured opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within the Bureau of Prisons.
✓Life and long-term care insurance programs.

💡 How to Apply Training Instructor (Vocational Training Instructor - Horticulture) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Training Instructor (Vocational Training Instructor - Horticulture) Job

Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume that specifically details your hours worked per week and relevant horticulture experience.
Upload required documentation, including transcripts and industry-recognized certifications.
Submit your application through the online portal by the closing date.
Complete the required USA Hire competency-based assessments within the specified timeframe.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes month/year format for all work experience to ensure accurate credit.
Double-check that all uploaded files are clearly labeled (e.g., 'Transcripts' or 'Certification') and avoid special characters in filenames.
If claiming veterans' preference, ensure your DD-214 and any applicable SF-15 documentation are included in your initial submission.
Review your answers to the online questionnaire carefully, as they are used to determine your eligibility and category placement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this role?

The role focuses on delivering vocational instruction in horticulture to inmates, developing curriculum, managing apprenticeships, and maintaining the security of the correctional institution.

Do I need a degree to apply?

You must meet specific education or specialized experience requirements. If using education to qualify, you must upload legible transcripts at the time of application.

Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System

The Federal Bureau of Prisons is the primary agency responsible for the care and custody of federal inmates. Our mission goes beyond incarceration; we focus on fostering a secure environment while preparing individuals for successful reentry into their communities. By providing high-quality vocational training, we help reduce recidivism and strengthen the workforce.