Become a Cellular Forensics Specialist with the Bureau of Prisons
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is currently seeking a highly skilled and analytical professional to serve as a Correctional Program Specialist (Cellular Forensics Specialist). This unique position bridges the gap between digital investigation and correctional safety, ensuring that the BOP stays ahead of evolving threats in a digital age. If you possess a background in intelligence gathering, forensics, and correctional administration, this role offers an unparalleled opportunity to serve the public interest.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will function as a key advisor to the Chief, providing analytical insights that support the Bureau's national digital forensic mission. Daily duties include:
- Evidence Management: Collecting, documenting, and securing cellular devices in strict accordance with investigative protocols.
- Intelligence Analysis: Monitoring worldwide advancements in digital forensics to identify emerging threats to correctional environments.
- Operational Guidance: Sharing actionable intelligence with field sites to assist in their investigative efforts.
- Administrative Oversight: Coordinating with internal working groups and maintaining meticulous records within investigative databases.
Requirements
To be eligible for this competitive position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Educational Foundation: A Ph.D. or three years of graduate education in criminology, psychology, or related fields.
- Work Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level, specifically involving correctional program management or investigative digital forensics.
- Suitability: Successful completion of all background checks, physicals, and drug screenings.
Comparison Table: Qualifications
| Qualification Area | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Ph.D. or 3 years Graduate Study | Must be accredited |
| Experience | 1 Year Specialized | Must demonstrate supervisory capacity |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen | Required for security clearance |
| Assessment | Must pass USA Hire | 75+ score for consideration |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $85,447 to $111,087 per year, commensurate with experience and federal pay grade standards.
Benefits
Working with the Bureau of Prisons includes comprehensive benefits designed to support your work-life balance and long-term career growth, including:
- Federal retirement contributions (FERS/CSRS).
- Generous health insurance options.
- Relocation reimbursement where authorized.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Keep your resume to two pages, focusing on how your past experience matches the specific duties listed in this announcement.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure all SF-50 forms and transcripts are legible and correctly labeled to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Assessments: Take the USA Hire assessment seriously. You will have two hours to complete it; preparing ahead of time using the provided resource center is highly recommended.
This role is more than just a job; it is a critical function within the Department of Justice. By protecting the integrity of our investigations, you ensure the safety of our correctional facilities and the community at large. Apply today to help shape the future of BOP intelligence.
Why This Correctional Program Specialist (Cellular Forensics Specialist) Job Matters
Advance your career in intelligence and digital forensics with the Bureau of Prisons and play a critical role in safeguarding our national correctional systems.
Correctional Program Specialist (Cellular Forensics Specialist) Job Overview
The Federal Bureau of Prisons is seeking a detail-oriented Correctional Program Specialist (Cellular Forensics Specialist) to join our team in Washington, D.C. In this essential role, you will provide expert support for the Bureau's intelligence mission, focusing on the sophisticated collection, preservation, and analysis of cellular devices as digital evidence. You will monitor global intelligence and technological advancements to identify potential security threats, effectively serving as a bridge between specialized digital investigation and correctional administration.
Requirements for Correctional Program Specialist (Cellular Forensics Specialist)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Ph.D. or 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education in criminology, psychology, social work, sociology, or related fields
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level in a correctional environment
- Ability to pass a background investigation, physical, and urinalysis
- Time-in-grade requirements for current federal employees
- Completion of mandatory 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' (ICT) Phase I and II (for law enforcement personnel)
Preferred Qualifications for Correctional Program Specialist (Cellular Forensics Specialist)
- Advanced knowledge of intelligence processing and investigative techniques
- Demonstrated experience in digital forensic technology and evidence handling
- Strong proficiency in evaluating management processes and recommending actionable improvements
- Proven track record in training subordinates and coordinating large-scale correctional functions
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Telework eligibility based on agency policy
- ✓Relocation reimbursement authorized
- ✓Comprehensive federal retirement programs (FERS/CSRS)
- ✓Robust health and life insurance options
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
💡 How to Apply Correctional Program Specialist (Cellular Forensics Specialist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Correctional Program Specialist (Cellular Forensics Specialist) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile
- Submit your resume (max 2 pages) and required supporting documents (SF-50, transcripts, performance appraisals)
- Complete the online questionnaire and required assessments via the provided link
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS portal
- Follow email instructions regarding USA Hire assessments if applicable
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes start/end dates in MM/YYYY format and hours worked per week
- Double-check that your transcripts clearly display your name and degree award date
- Submit your application well before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date
- Review your application for any special characters in file names that could cause upload errors
- Use the USAJOBS Help Center resources to refine your federal resume format
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of a Cellular Forensics Specialist in the BOP?
You will manage the collection and preservation of cellular devices as evidence, conduct forensic data analysis, and monitor global intelligence trends to support correctional investigations.
Can I work remotely?
While this position is based in Washington, D.C., it is telework-eligible in accordance with current agency policies.
What if I don't have federal experience?
*A: We encourage all candidates who meet the educational or specialized experience requirements to apply. Your qualifications will be weighed based on your professional history and assessment scores.*
Is relocation assistance available?
*A: Yes, reimbursement for travel and transportation is authorized for this position.*
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
Operating under the Department of Justice, the Bureau of Prisons is tasked with the vital responsibility of maintaining secure, humane, and professional correctional facilities. Our mission extends beyond incarceration; we focus on preparing individuals for successful reentry into society while ensuring the highest standards of safety for our staff, inmates, and the public.