Job: Correctional Officer (Correctional Officer Trainee)

Provides supervision, care and correctional treatment of inmates and guidance to lower-graded Correctional Officers. Incumbent is concerned with maintenance of institution security contributing to the health and welfare of the inmates and the promotion of good public relations.

Enforces rules and regulations governing facility security, inmate accountability and inmate conduct to ensure judicial sanctions are carried out and inmates remain in custody. From time to time, may be authorized to carry firearms and to use physical force, including deadly force, to maintain control of inmates.

During institution emergencies or other periods of heavy workload or limited staff, may be required to work long and irregular hours, unusual shifts, Sundays, holidays and unexpected overtime. Information as to operations and procedures is provided by post orders, BOP program statements, local supplements, custodial manual, internal correspondence and staff meetings. Incumbent must be flexible and have a broad knowledge base to use own initiative in the resolution of problem situations.

Conditions of employment

Career Transition Programs (CTAP or ICTAP): These programs apply to Federal and/or DOJ employees who meet the definition of surplus or displaced from a position in the competitive service. To receive selection priority for this position, you must:

1. Meet CTAP or ICTAP eligibility criteria;
2. Be rated well-qualified for the position [with a score of 85 or above] based on the competencies listed above; and
3. Submit the appropriate documentation to support your CTAP or ICTAP eligibility:
   • A copy of the agency notice (i.e., separation notice or agency RIF letter),
   • Most recent performance appraisal, and
   • Most recent SF-50 showing current/former position, grade, promotion potential, and duty location.

EEO Statement/Policy: The United States government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service or other non-merit factor. More information can be found here: U.S Department of Justice - Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

1. U.S. Citizenship is Required.
2. See Special Conditions of Employment Section.
3. Selective Service Requirement

Qualifications

To be considered for the position, you must meet the following qualification requirements:

Education:

Successfully completed education above the high school level in any field may be substituted for general experience at the rate of 30 semester hours for one year of experience.

OR

Experience:

At least 2 years of full-time general experience, one year of which is equivalent to the GL-03 level in the Federal service.

General experience is defined as progressively responsible work that demonstrates the ability to:

• Follow and apply rules, procedures, or regulations.
• Use sound judgment in decision-making.
• Communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Maintain composure and take appropriate action in emergency or stressful situations.

Examples of Qualifying General Experience:
Experience does not need to be in a correctional setting, nor is it expected to be obtained through supervisory experience. Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Military Service - Military service in any branch inherently develops the ability to work effectively with people of differing backgrounds, lead and instruct others, think clearly under pressure, remain calm in emergencies, and exercise sound judgment. These qualities demonstrate the aptitude for correctional work and key personal attributes qualifying as general experience. Through the discipline, responsibility, and real-world challenges of service in any branch, veterans build the foundational competencies this role requires.
• Industrial, Mining, or Skilled Trades Work - Working as a miner, heavy equipment operator, welder, or in other occupations where strict compliance with OSHA safety procedures, rules, and regulations is required to protect personnel and maintain operational safety.
• Security or Law Enforcement Support - Serving as a security guard, military police, or patrol officer assistant, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
• Customer Service in High-Volume or Regulated Environments - Working in airports, transportation hubs, or large event venues where enforcing rules and resolving conflicts is required.
• Youth or Group Supervision - Supervising youth in residential programs, summer camps, or educational settings, ensuring safety and adherence to rules.
• Emergency Services - Serving as a firefighter, EMT, or disaster response volunteer, requiring quick decision-making under pressure.
• Transportation or Logistics - Operating in roles where safety checks, inspections, and adherence to strict schedules and procedures are critical.

OR

AND

Medical Requirement:
The Department of Justice, Bureau of Prisons has established the following medical requirements for Correctional Officer positions: The duties of these positions involve unusual mental and nervous pressure and require arduous physical exertion involving prolonged walking and standing, restraining of prisoners in emergencies, and participating in escape hunts. Applicants must be physically capable of performing efficiently the duties of these positions and be free from such defects or disease as may constitute employment hazards to themselves or others. The duties of a Correctional Officer are arduous; and sound health as well as physical fitness is required.

If applicable, credit will be given for paid and unpaid experience. To receive proper credit, you must show the actual time (such as the number of hours worked per week) spent in activities.

You MUST meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 09/30/2027.

Your resume must support your responses to the online questionnaire and the qualification requirements. Failure to do so may result in an ineligible rating.See the Required Documents section for important notes about what must be included in your resume.

After you submit your application, you will receive notification indicated whether or not the USA Hire assessment is required. You will have 48 hours from the closing date of this announcement to complete the assessment which is part of your application.