The Program Specialist provides the offender with tools and knowledge to prepare for reentry into the community. Provides individual and group counseling in self-esteem, problem solving, relationships and other related issues. Assists the offender to secure direct communication with substance abuse, educational, employment and/or other free world community social resources that can assist in successful reintegration into society.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

•Provides general classroom guidance in the areas of career planning, social adjustment, personal management, and general life/skills knowledge.

•Communicates with inmates regarding the reality of their pre-release activities and plans, defining terminology and identifying community resources.

•Conducts a periodic review of curriculum and resources available to enhance offenders participation in pre-release/life skills programs and activities.

•May maintain class rosters, attendance records and provides certificates for pre-release life skills program.

•May report offenders for failing to attend assigned classes as an offense.

•Assesses needs of inmates and makes referrals to appropriate staff.

•May participate in formulation and development of release plan.

•Aids offenders in planning and developing an individual post-release plan and encourages them to assume the responsibility for post-release behaviors and activities.

•Performs other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Baccalaureate degree followed by three years of professional level experience in social services, corrections, psychology, counseling, vocational rehabilitation counseling or instruction, nursing, teaching at the secondary level or above, or in the treatment/rehabilitation of offenders/inmates. 

COMPETENCIES:

• Detail Oriented

• Initiative

• Organizational skills

• Confidentiality

• Time management

• Multitask

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This job is located at a correctional facility; however, this job operates primarily in a professional office setting and routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.

OTHER DUTIES:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Job Type: 

Full-time

Schedule:

• Monday - Friday (8:00am - 4:00pm shift)

Benefits:

• Health insurance

• Dental insurance

• Disability insurance

• Vision insurance

• Life insurance

• Paid time off after 1 year

Work Location:

• One location