Become a Safety & Occupational Health Manager at the Federal Bureau of Prisons
Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for workplace safety, environmental compliance, and organizational integrity? The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is looking for a skilled Safety and Occupational Health Manager to join the team in Ashland, Kentucky. This role is a cornerstone for facility operations, ensuring that the institution maintains the highest standards of safety for staff and inmates alike.
Job Responsibilities
As the Safety and Occupational Health Manager, you will act as the principal technical advisor to facility management. Key duties include:
- Developing and enforcing safety and fire protection programs.
- Managing hazardous waste, pollution prevention, and toxic chemical inventories.
- Conducting on-going training for staff and inmates in accordance with OSHA, EPA, and NFPA standards.
- Monitoring workers' compensation programs.
- Integrating security protocols into every facet of your safety operations.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Safety & Occupational Health Manager |
|---|---|
| Agency | Bureau of Prisons |
| Location | Ashland, Kentucky |
| Grade Level | GS-12 |
| Salary Range | $89,508 - $116,362 |
| Travel Requirement | 1 |
Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Professional experience managing complex safety systems.
- Ability to interpret and apply federal executive orders and regulations.
- Excellent communication skills for training and advising personnel.
- Ability to meet medical and background investigation criteria.
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this position ranges from $89,508 to $116,362 per year. Beyond the salary, federal employees benefit from a robust package including health insurance, retirement planning, and significant work-life balance through generous leave programs.
Application Tips
- Your resume is your primary marketing tool. Ensure it is concise, strictly limited to two pages, and clearly outlines your relevant professional achievements.
- Always provide unredacted copies of your SF-50 if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Double-check your application for compliance with formatting instructions to avoid disqualification.
This role offers a unique opportunity to lead critical safety initiatives within a high-stakes federal environment. If you meet the criteria and are ready to serve, apply via the USAJOBS portal before the November 4, 2026, deadline.
Why This Safety & Occupational Health Manager (Safety Administrator) Job Matters
Protect lives and secure the future: Lead critical safety operations for the Federal Bureau of Prisons in Ashland, Kentucky.
Safety & Occupational Health Manager (Safety Administrator) Job Overview
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is seeking a dedicated and proactive Safety and Occupational Health Manager to join our team in Ashland, Kentucky. This vital role serves as the principal technical advisor for all facility-wide safety, fire protection, and environmental programs. You will manage complex regulatory requirements and design strategies to mitigate risks, ensuring a safe environment for both staff and individuals in our care. This position is essential to maintaining the security and operational integrity of the institution, balancing high-level administrative oversight with hands-on safety implementation.
Requirements for Safety & Occupational Health Manager (Safety Administrator)
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Completion of a mandatory three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training at Glynco, Georgia.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Must pass a background investigation, physical examination, and urinalysis.
- Subject to National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and credit checks.
- Must meet the maximum entry age requirement of 36 years for original appointment to a BOP position.
- Willingness to undergo periodic geographic relocation as necessitated by agency requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Safety & Occupational Health Manager (Safety Administrator)
- Proven experience in developing and managing comprehensive safety and occupational health programs.
- Demonstrated ability to train staff and supervisors on OSHA, EPA, and NFPA standards.
- Expertise in navigating complex regulatory frameworks, including hazardous waste management, asbestos abatement, and emergency response planning.
- Strong technical advisory skills for senior management.
- Experience managing workers' compensation programs.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous leave accrual
- ✓Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions
💡 How to Apply Safety & Occupational Health Manager (Safety Administrator) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Safety & Occupational Health Manager (Safety Administrator) Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account and complete the online application questionnaire.
- Prepare and attach a resume limited to two pages.
- Upload required documentation, including SF-50s, transcripts, and performance appraisals.
- Monitor your email for a unique link to complete the required USA Hire Assessments.
- Complete the assessment within the specified timeframe.
- Submit your final package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on November 4, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes start/end dates in MM/YYYY format and the number of hours worked per week.
- Check for typos and ensure documents are not saved with special characters (e.g., #, @, %).
- Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice before taking your assessments.
- Clearly link your past experience to the duties described in the announcement.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to account for potential technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework available for this position?
No, this position is not telework eligible due to the requirements of the facility and the nature of the security-focused duties.
What is the age requirement for this job?
Per 5 U.S.C. 3307, the maximum entry age for an original appointment to a Bureau of Prisons institution is 36 years.
What is the selection timeframe?
Selecting officials typically aim to make a selection within 90 days, though this may be extended to 180 days.
Is a drug test required?
Yes, successful completion of a urinalysis is required for this appointment.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Department of Justice, specifically the Federal Bureau of Prisons, is committed to the mission of ensuring public safety by managing correctional institutions that are both humane and secure. Our team members play a crucial role in preparing individuals for successful reentry into society while upholding strict security protocols.