Become a Utility Systems Supervisor with the Federal Bureau of Prisons
Are you a technical expert with a talent for leadership? If you have experience in large-scale utility maintenance and a drive to contribute to public safety, the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is currently seeking a Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Supervisor in Milan, Michigan. This role is essential for maintaining the operational integrity of a correctional facility and requires a unique blend of mechanical expertise and professional leadership.
Job Responsibilities
In this position, you will serve as a foreman, overseeing the daily activities of inmate crews tasked with maintaining critical facility systems. Your primary duties will include:
- Maintenance & Repair: Servicing steam boilers, high-voltage electrical distribution systems, water filtration plants, and sewage monitoring systems.
- Team Leadership: Supervising and training inmate crews to perform complex repair tasks safely and efficiently.
- Security Integration: Ensuring that all maintenance work complies with institutional security protocols. In a prison environment, security is the highest priority and precedes all other maintenance duties.
- Technical Compliance: Interpreting blueprints and technical manuals to ensure precise repair and installation of piping, HVAC, and power distribution equipment.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must demonstrate:
- Technical Aptitude: Verified experience in utility repair and operation.
- Supervisory Potential: The ability to lead teams effectively.
- Suitability: A commitment to the security requirements of a correctional setting.
- Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen.
- Mandatory Training: Successful completion of the "Introduction to Correctional Techniques" course in Glynco, Georgia.
Salary and Comparison
This position offers a competitive federal salary based on your trade experience. Below is a comparison of typical trade-focused roles:
| Position Title | Sector | Typical Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Utility Supervisor | Federal | Critical Security & Operations |
| HVAC Foreman | Private | Commercial/Residential Maintenance |
| Electrician Lead | Private | Construction/Infrastructure |
Benefits
Employees of the Federal Bureau of Prisons enjoy access to a robust federal benefits package, including health insurance, federal retirement planning, and opportunities for long-term career growth within the Department of Justice.
Application Tips
- Resume Formatting: Keep your resume limited to two pages. Clearly define your experience using the MM/YYYY format and include hours worked per week.
- Documentation: Ensure all SF-50 forms and veteran status documents are uploaded in the correct format without special characters.
- Assessment: Take your time answering the online questionnaire, as your score directly impacts your ranking.
Serving as a Utility Systems Supervisor for the BOP is more than just a maintenance job; it is a leadership role in a highly controlled environment. If you are ready to apply your technical skills to a rewarding mission, we encourage you to submit your application by the closing date.
Why This Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Supervisor (Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Foreman) Job Matters
Take charge of critical infrastructure at the Federal Bureau of Prisons. We are seeking a skilled Foreman to lead utility systems maintenance and ensure institutional security in Milan, Michigan.
Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Supervisor (Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Foreman) Job Overview
The Bureau of Prisons is looking for a dedicated Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Supervisor to join our team in Milan, Michigan. In this pivotal role, you will lead inmate crews in the maintenance, repair, and operation of complex utility systems, including boilers, electrical distribution networks, and water systems. As a member of our correctional team, your primary focus is balancing facility operations with the critical requirement of maintaining institutional security.
Requirements for Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Supervisor (Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Foreman)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be able to pass a comprehensive background investigation
- Must undergo a pre-employment physical and urinalysis
- Ability to complete the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training at Glynco, Georgia
- Must pass criminal and credit record checks
- Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance
- Must be under the age of 37 for original appointment (unless a veteran or holding prior federal law enforcement coverage)
Preferred Qualifications for Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Supervisor (Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Foreman)
- Proven experience in supervising and leading technical crews
- Technical proficiency in steam boilers and high-voltage distribution
- Strong aptitude for working effectively and securely within a correctional environment
- Experience in reading blueprints and technical specifications
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay
- ✓Comprehensive Federal benefits package
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Meaningful career in public safety
💡 How to Apply Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Supervisor (Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Foreman) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Supervisor (Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Foreman) Job
- Register and create a profile on USAJOBS
- Prepare a detailed resume (maximum 2 pages) outlining your specific experience in months/years and hours per week
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire linked within the announcement
- Submit all required documentation, including SF-50s or DD-214s, if applicable
- Review your application status via the USAJOBS dashboard
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the core competencies mentioned in the job post, such as blueprint reading and equipment repair.
- Do not use special characters in your saved document filenames (e.g., %, #, @).
- Double-check that your resume includes start/end dates in MM/YYYY format for every relevant job.
- If you are a veteran, ensure all required forms like the DD-214 are attached at the time of initial application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary responsibility of this role beyond maintenance?
While you are responsible for the repair and operation of utility systems, your overarching duty is to maintain the security of the correctional institution.
Is there a maximum age requirement?
Yes, there is a maximum entry age of 36 for initial appointment, though exceptions may apply for qualified veterans or those with prior federal law enforcement service.
What happens after I apply?
Your application will be rated based on your assessment responses and resume. If you are among the top-quality candidates, you may be contacted for a panel interview.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is the agency within the Department of Justice responsible for the management, safety, and security of federal correctional institutions. Our mission is to provide humane and secure environments for individuals in our custody while preparing them for successful reentry into society. Staff members across all disciplines, including trades and maintenance, play a vital role in our daily operations.