Become a Senior Correctional Program Specialist with the Federal Bureau of Prisons
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is dedicated to ensuring public safety while preparing individuals for successful reentry into society. We are currently searching for a dedicated and experienced professional to serve as a Senior Correctional Program Specialist in the Sex Offender Certification Review Branch. If you are an expert in correctional policy with a desire to influence systemic programs, this GS-13 position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of federal correctional management.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Correctional Program Specialist, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Policy Oversight: Acting as the branch expert on the Walsh Act's Classification and Management Assignments (CMA).
- Program Leadership: Providing guidance and oversight to other program specialists regarding complex correctional issues.
- Issue Resolution: Addressing and resolving sensitive matters concerning inmate classification for the entire Bureau of Prisons.
- Data Management: Utilizing advanced databases and correctional software to audit, track, and evaluate the effectiveness of institutional programs.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-13 position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Experience: A minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-12).
- Technical Proficiency: Experience extracting data from sources like NCIC or psychological reports to assess offender risk.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of internal BOP policies, regulations, and procedures.
Comparison of Potential Candidates
| Candidate Attribute | Typical Requirement | Preferred Background |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | 1 Year at GS-12 level | Multi-year administrative/supervisory |
| System Knowledge | Basic operational | Sentry/BOP WARE/NCIC expert |
| Focus Area | General Custody | Specialized Sex Offender Programs |
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-13 level, offering a competitive annual salary ranging from $121,785 to $158,322, commensurate with experience and federal pay scales for the Washington, D.C. locality.
Benefits
Employees of the Federal Bureau of Prisons enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health, Dental, and Vision coverage.
- Participation in the FERS pension plan.
- Generous leave policies including paid federal holidays.
- Opportunities for remote work or telework as determined by agency policy.
Application Tips
- Precision is Key: Clearly define your hours worked per week in your resume, as this is used to calculate your experience eligibility.
- Documents: Ensure all SF-50s and supporting documentation are unredacted and labeled clearly without special characters.
- Stay Updated: Monitor your email frequently after applying for notifications regarding your status or required assessments.
This role is ideal for a professional looking to make a meaningful difference within the federal correctional system. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to submit your application and supporting materials through the official USAJOBS portal by the closing date.
Why This Correctional Program Specialist (Senior Correctional Program Specialist) Job Matters
Shape federal correctional policy at the highest level—lead critical sex offender certification programs with the Bureau of Prisons.
Correctional Program Specialist (Senior Correctional Program Specialist) Job Overview
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is seeking a Senior Correctional Program Specialist to join the Sex Offender Certification Review Branch in Washington, D.C. This pivotal role involves providing expert oversight of Classification and Management Assignments (CMA) under the Walsh Act, ensuring that correctional programs remain secure, humane, and compliant with federal mandates.
Requirements for Correctional Program Specialist (Senior Correctional Program Specialist)
- U.S. Citizenship
- At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level in a correctional setting
- Proven administrative or supervisory experience within a correctional facility
- Comprehensive knowledge of custody, treatment, training, and inmate release policies
- Ability to pass background investigations, physical examinations, and drug screenings
- Availability for potential geographic relocation based on agency needs
Preferred Qualifications for Correctional Program Specialist (Senior Correctional Program Specialist)
- Proficiency in Sentry, BOP WARE, and data extraction from NCIC or psychological evaluations
- Experience working with multidisciplinary teams, including psychology services or correctional programs
- Expertise in sex offender assessment and civil commitment procedures
- Strong background in auditing, monitoring, and database management
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal competitive salary and step increases
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance options
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Flexible work arrangements, including telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply Correctional Program Specialist (Senior Correctional Program Specialist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Correctional Program Specialist (Senior Correctional Program Specialist) Job
- Create a USAJOBS account and build your federal resume.
- Click the 'Apply Online' button on the USAJOBS vacancy page.
- Complete the required online questionnaires and competency-based assessments.
- Upload all supporting documentation, including SF-50s or veterans' preference forms.
- Submit your final application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard for updates or interview invitations.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience in months and years, including the number of hours worked per week.
- Avoid using special characters in file names when uploading supporting documents.
- Review your responses to the online assessment carefully; overstating qualifications can result in removal from consideration.
- Complete any required USA Hire assessments promptly upon receiving the link.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this position?
The specialist serves as an expert within the Sex Offender Certification Review Branch, managing Classification and Management Assignments (CMA) under the Walsh Act.
Is this a law enforcement position?
This is a secondary/non-law enforcement position. Law enforcement retirement coverage depends on your previous 'primary' service experience.
Can I substitute education for experience?
No, there is no substitution of education for the specialized experience required for this role.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Relocation assistance is not explicitly listed, but the incumbent is subject to geographic relocation per agency needs.
Can I apply if I am not a federal employee?
Yes, the position is open to the public as well as federal employees.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Department of Justice's Federal Bureau of Prisons operates with a mission to provide a humane and secure environment for incarcerated individuals. By hiring elite personnel, the agency continues to uphold high standards of integrity, safety, and administrative excellence. Working within the Central Office, you will be part of a team committed to national policy directives.