DOC PROGRAM SPECIALIST

Position Number: 22077532

County: Lincoln

Posting End Date: 5/20/2024

Anticipated Starting Salary: $32,405.00

Location: Varner Unit - Grady

The mission of the Department of Corrections is to be a public safety resource for Arkansas families by providing professional management solutions and evidence-based rehabilitative initiatives for offenders.

All DOC positions are designated as Safety Sensitive Positions and are subject to random drug testing pursuant to the Secretarial Directive governing Personnel Drug Testing. Medical marijuana usage, as defined in Amendment 93 of the Arkansas Constitution, prohibits Personnel in a Safety-Sensitive Position from the use of medical marijuana even if they are qualifying patient under the amendment and/or hold a registry identification card. Department Personnel are prohibited from the use or possession of a medicinal marijuana card pursuant to this policy and state law.

Position Information

Class Code: M058C

Grade: GS05

FLSA Status: NON-EXEMPT

Salary Range: $32,405.00 - $46,987.00

Summary

The Arkansas Department of Correction/Department of Community Correction (ADC/DCC) Program Specialist is responsible for implementing program policies and procedures, establishing or coordinating program schedules and security, performing public relations and inmate/resident escort services, determining inmate/resident eligibility, and preparing reports. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency policy.

Functions

Develops, recommends, and implements policies and procedures for special event programs and for long and short term activity in compliance with facility regulations. Reviews and evaluates activity and event proposals, submits to supervisor for final decision, and coordinates program schedules and security with other staff. Performs individual and group counseling activities with clients/inmates, prepares documentation of contact, and maintains or forwards records. Performs public relations and escort services, inside and outside the facility, by scheduling and conducting tours and transporting inmates/clients to activities. Reviews client/inmate records to determine program eligibility and selects clients/inmates for participation in outside activities. Updates and maintains program records and prepares incident reports, unit concession sales, activity, and inmate product inventory reports. Instructs inmates/residents in specialized subjects or work areas. Prepares release documentation for clients graduating from programs and activities. Reviews and processes correspondence. Performs other duties as assigned.

Dimensions

None

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

Knowledge of assigned program and processes. Knowledge of the application of sociological principles to social problems. Knowledge of criminal justice processes and programs. Knowledge of counseling techniques. Ability to prepare and review oral and written information and materials. Ability to research and interpret rules, laws, and policies governing the applicable institution and/or and program. Ability to offer guidance and support for clients/inmates. Ability to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of programs and recommend changes.

Minimum Qualifications

The formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in counseling, psychology, social work, criminal justice, or a related field; plus one year of experience in social work, counseling, or a related field. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Licenses

None

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.