Supervisory Correctional Officer Jobs (Lieutenant)

The Bureau of Prisons (BOP), a division under the U.S. Department of Justice, plays a vital role in maintaining public safety and ensuring secure and humane correctional environments. Among the many career opportunities within the agency, the position of Supervisory Correctional Officer (Lieutenant) stands out as a leadership role that combines security management, staff supervision, and crisis response. This position offers both responsibility and reward, serving as a bridge between correctional staff and administrative leadership while fostering the safety and rehabilitation of inmates.

Overview of the Position

The Supervisory Correctional Officer (Lieutenant) role is designed for experienced professionals who are ready to assume leadership responsibilities within a correctional facility. Stationed at FCI Phoenix, Arizona, this full-time, permanent position requires dedication to both institutional safety and the well-being of correctional staff.

As a Lieutenant, you will oversee daily correctional operations, manage shift assignments, coordinate inmate programs, and ensure staff compliance with security protocols. The role also involves direct communication with the facility Captain to implement institutional directives efficiently.

Key Responsibilities of a Supervisory Correctional Officer

The position encompasses a variety of duties, all essential to maintaining safety and order within the institution. Key responsibilities include:

• Supervising correctional officers during assigned shifts.
• Overseeing inmate housing, recreation, sanitation, and security protocols.
• Managing staff performance, morale, and training requirements.
• Responding promptly and effectively to crisis situations.
• Coordinating daily activities in the Special Housing Unit (SHU) and ensuring proper documentation of operations.
• Maintaining regular communication with facility leadership to implement operational directives.

The Lieutenant position ensures that institutional security is prioritized while maintaining compliance with federal standards and promoting a professional correctional environment.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Applicants must meet strict federal qualifications to be considered for this role. There is no substitution of education for experience at this level; professional correctional experience is mandatory.

Candidates should demonstrate:

1. At least one year of specialized correctional experience at the equivalent GS-09 level or higher.
2. Proven experience in managing post orders, shift rosters, and security audits.
3. Skills in employee guidance, performance evaluation, and crisis decision-making.
4. Strong written and oral communication abilities for documenting reports and interacting with staff.

These qualifications ensure that selected candidates are well-prepared for the supervisory responsibilities associated with the position.

Core Competencies for Success

The Bureau of Prisons identifies several knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA) areas critical for success in this role:

• Oral Communication: Clear communication with staff and leadership.
• Decision Making: Prompt, accurate responses in high-pressure scenarios.
• Managing Human Resources: Supervising, training, and motivating correctional officers.
• Stress Tolerance: Remaining composed under challenging circumstances.
• Technical Competence: Familiarity with correctional operations and federal regulations.

Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in these areas throughout the hiring and assessment process.

Employment Conditions and Special Requirements

Working as a Supervisory Correctional Officer involves unique federal employment conditions. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
• Maximum entry age for initial appointment is 36 years.
• Successful completion of a Core Value Assessment (CVA) and a three-week Introduction to Correctional Techniques course in Glynco, Georgia, is required.
• Physical, background, and drug testing are part of the pre-employment process.
• Willingness to undergo geographic relocation if agency needs arise.

The position requires a high level of personal integrity and professional commitment to the mission of the Bureau of Prisons.

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive federal salary under the GS-11 pay scale, ranging from \$77,343 to \$100,541 annually, depending on experience and location adjustments. Employees also enjoy comprehensive federal benefits, including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) coverage.
• Paid leave and federal holidays.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional training.

These benefits make the position attractive for those seeking long-term federal careers in law enforcement and corrections.

Application Process

Applicants must follow all federal application guidelines carefully. To apply:

1. Visit www.USAJOBS.gov and search for the job title Supervisory Correctional Officer (Lieutenant) at FCI Phoenix, AZ.
2. Complete the online application, answering all eligibility and assessment questions accurately.
3. Upload a detailed resume in the required MM/YYYY format with hours worked per week for each position.
4. Submit all necessary supporting documents, such as SF-50 forms for current federal employees and proof of CTAP eligibility if applicable.
5. Ensure all documents are received by the closing date of the announcement.

Failure to provide accurate and complete documentation may result in disqualification from the hiring process.

Why Choose a Career as a Supervisory Correctional Officer?

A career with the Bureau of Prisons offers more than just job security; it provides the opportunity to make a real difference in the justice system. Supervisory Correctional Officers play a crucial role in maintaining safe institutions while preparing inmates for successful reintegration into society.

This position is ideal for professionals who value:

• Leadership and management opportunities.
• Competitive federal salaries and benefits.
• Career growth within the Department of Justice.
• A mission-driven work environment focused on public safety.

Final Thoughts

The Supervisory Correctional Officer (Lieutenant) role at FCI Phoenix represents a challenging yet rewarding federal career opportunity. With responsibilities spanning staff leadership, inmate security, and institutional crisis management, the position demands dedication, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.

Qualified candidates seeking a leadership role in federal corrections are encouraged to apply before the announcement closing date. This position not only offers a competitive salary and benefits package but also provides the chance to contribute to the safety and integrity of the U.S. correctional system.