Become a Leader in Correctional Excellence: Chief, Jails Division
Are you ready to influence the future of the American correctional system? The National Institute of Corrections (NIC), under the Department of Justice, is looking for a seasoned expert to fill the role of Correctional Program Officer (Chief, Jails Division). This is a high-level leadership opportunity designed for professionals dedicated to public safety, policy reform, and the advancement of jail operations nationwide.
Job Responsibilities
As the Chief of the Jails Division, your primary focus will be the strategic management of the division’s initiatives. Key responsibilities include:
- Strategic Leadership: Managing all program planning, policy development, and fiscal operations for the Jails Division.
- Operational Oversight: Supervising the NIC protocol for training programs and technical assistance activities.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Maintaining robust networks with professional organizations, local jail systems, and the public to promote best practices.
- Policy Analysis: Evaluating complex correctional issues and providing recommendations to senior-level officials.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must demonstrate substantial expertise. The following table highlights the core expectations:
| Requirement Area | Specification |
|---|---|
| Professional Experience | 5+ years of executive/managerial experience in corrections. |
| Specialized Skills | Policy design, training development, and tech-driven correctional solutions. |
| Education | No education substitution allowed for GS-14/15. |
| Security | Must pass background checks and a physical exam. |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $125,776 to $192,331 per year. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision coverage.
- Generous federal retirement plans, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Ample paid time off, including sick and annual leave.
- Supportive work-life balance initiatives.
Application Tips
Securing a federal position of this magnitude requires precision. Ensure your resume highlights your executive experience clearly, using "MM/YYYY" date formats and stating the number of hours worked per week for each role. Most importantly, do not overlook the Selective Placement Factor. Your resume must explicitly detail your five years of managerial experience in specific correctional focus areas to be considered.
This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to leave a lasting mark on the criminal justice system. If you meet the criteria and are passionate about leading national change, we encourage you to apply to the NIC by the closing date of November 4, 2026.
Why This Correctional Program Officer (Chief, Jails Division) Job Matters
Shape the future of national correctional standards as the Chief of the Jails Division at the National Institute of Corrections.
Correctional Program Officer (Chief, Jails Division) Job Overview
The Department of Justice, specifically the Federal Bureau of Prisons' National Institute of Corrections (NIC), is seeking an experienced leader to serve as the Correctional Program Officer (Chief, Jails Division). In this pivotal role, you will oversee program planning, policy development, and operational management for the Jails Division. You will influence the national landscape of correctional programs, bridge the gap between agencies and local jails, and direct vital technical assistance and training initiatives. This leadership position demands a strategic thinker capable of managing complex cooperative agreements and engaging with national stakeholders to foster secure and humane correctional environments.
Requirements for Correctional Program Officer (Chief, Jails Division)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Must pass a background investigation, physical, and urinalysis.
- Must meet one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
- Must possess 5+ years of executive/managerial experience in federal, state, local, or county correctional systems.
- Expertise in designing policy guidelines, providing executive-level training, and utilizing technology for correctional improvements.
- Must adhere to a one-year probationary period for supervisory/managerial appointments.
Preferred Qualifications for Correctional Program Officer (Chief, Jails Division)
- Demonstrated history of developing long and short-range strategic goals.
- Proven success in managing cooperative agreements and large-scale administrative budgets.
- Established professional network within national correctional associations.
- Experience briefing senior-level officials on emerging trends and high-stakes criminal justice issues.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Comprehensive life insurance coverage.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
💡 How to Apply Correctional Program Officer (Chief, Jails Division) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Correctional Program Officer (Chief, Jails Division) Job
- Log in or register on the USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Prepare a resume limited to 2 pages detailing your correctional experience.
- Submit your resume, most recent performance appraisal, and SF-50 (if applicable).
- Upload required documentation for veterans' preference or CTAP/ICTAP eligibility.
- Ensure all documents are submitted by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Clearly address the Selective Placement Factor in your resume; failure to do so will result in an ineligible rating.
- Ensure your resume includes hours worked per week for every position to receive proper credit.
- Use standard file names for documents, avoiding special characters like @, #, or %.
- Review your responses to the eligibility questions carefully as they directly influence your assessment score.
- Double-check your address and residency documentation, as these may be verified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for remote work?
No, this is not a remote or telework position. The incumbent must physically report to the official duty station in either Washington, DC, or Aurora, CO.
Can I substitute my education for experience?
No, for the GS-14 and GS-15 levels, there is no substitution of education for the required specialized experience.
What happens if I forget to submit my performance appraisal?
The agency requires your most recent performance appraisal. If it is unavailable, you must submit a statement explaining why. Missing documentation may negatively impact your evaluation.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The National Institute of Corrections is an agency within the Federal Bureau of Prisons that provides vital support to federal, state, and local correctional agencies. The NIC serves as a hub for information, training, and technical assistance, ensuring that correctional facilities have the resources they need to operate safely and humanely. By working for the NIC, you are joining a prestigious group of experts dedicated to the professionalization of the corrections industry.