What are the responsibilities and job description for the Inmate Programs Specialist position at City of Hampton, VA?
Function
The Programs Specialist conducts assessments, individual and/or group counseling sessions, and develops treatment or rehabilitation plans for inmates, with the goal of making a difference in the inmates' future path of life, and assist them to locate educational opportunities and acquire job skills to ease the transition to life outside of jail once they are released. Performs duties under the direct supervision of the Programs Manager and is accountable for use of delegated authority. Pursuant to §15.2–1603 of the Code of Virginia incumbent is appointed at-will and serves at the pleasure of the Sheriff.
Examples of Work
Uses interview techniques and assessment instruments to determine the inmate's security risks and programmatic needs; Prepares case history reports and recommends program assignments; Reviews work and disciplinary records of all assigned inmates to determine progress or necessity of changing assignments or security classification; Serves as a member of the Institutional Classification Committee; Advises inmates on personal problems, employment resources, vocational skills, educational and training needs, family problems and institutional adjustment; Delivers programs to inmates, to include individual and group counseling sessions, which are designed to assist in a successful re-entry into the community following release from incarceration; Provide intervention for at-risk and high-risk inmates and seek treatment solutions; Develops, monitors, and amends inmate transition plans in line with re-entry programs and services; Establishes collaborative network with relevant partners to provide support, pre- and post-release services for inmates which involve family members and community resources and social service agencies.
Qualifications
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE
Knowledge of vocational guidance and social adjustment principles, interviewing and counseling techniques, the social and psychological problems facing inmates; Ability to facilitate individual and group counseling sessions; Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others; Communicate effectively and determine which segment of the facility will be best suited to an inmate's social and correctional needs; Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word).
COMMUNICATION
Communicates with inmates, staff, and other agencies; Develops and maintains a professional rapport with staff; Demonstrates sensitivity to needs of inmates, families, staff, and other partners; Assists with outreach and special events; Maintains confidentiality of information regarding inmates
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's degree from an accredited university with preferred focus in mental health, adult counseling, human services, criminal justice, psychology, sociology, social work or related discipline.1-3 years of equivalent experience in a correctional facility in a position which requires direct and routine contact with inmates (preferred).
ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS The job may risk exposure to extreme heat and/or cold, wet or humid conditions, noise, fumes, odors, moving machinery, electrical shock, traffic and toxic or caustic chemicals. Risk of exposure to bio-hazard communicable diseases and bodily fluids.
PHYSICAL AND DEXTERITY REQUIREMENTS
Must have the capability to hear, speak and see to communicate with the general public. Must have the strength and ability to apprehend, subdue and restrain criminal offenders. Physical exertion may be required to climb stairs and over walls, run, bend, twist, reach, crawl through tight spaces, kneel in confined areas; sit for prolonged periods of time; move/push/pull or lift heavy objects exceeding 50 lbs; Subject to 24-hour call back for emergencies. Requires annual physical. Requires operation of standard office equipment All staff members are required to utilize their Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) on the job.
The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job.
Features
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
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