Careers

CORRECTIONAL OFFICER

MONTANA STATE PRISON

DEER LODGE, MT

JOB OVERVIEW - This position is responsible for the overall safety and security of inmates, staff and visitors of Montana State Prison and Montana Correctional Enterprises. Correctional Officers help ensure the institution is operated for the safety of the public, as well as the incarceration, treatment and rehabilitation of the inmate population.

• Supervise adult male felons while in the custody of Montana State Prison, on or off property. Correctional Officers are responsible for a wide variety of security duties relative to the safe, orderly and cost effective operation grounds, performing on including, but not limited to, conducting thorough inspections and searches of inmates, buildings and grounds,  performing security observation, preparing documentation regarding institutional matters such as incident reports, disciplinary documentation, counts and logs, operating security equipment, recognizing critical behavior, restraining and controlling offenders,  and responding to emergencies.
• Enforce and follow rules and regulations including, but not limited to written and/or oral directives, post orders, and special instructions in addition to policies and procedures which dictate daily, routine and emergency procedures. 
• Serve as a member of the Unit Management Team to oversee all aspects of the basic needs and welfare of adult male felons in the custody of Montana State Prison, on or off property. Participate in case management and classification procedures.
• Provide intervention for adult male felons in the custody of Montana State Prison by facilitating and/or overseeing counseling, medical care, first aide, clothing & laundry, janitorial and housekeeping supplies, transportation of inmates, meals, movement, jobs and other services as required.

QUALIFICATIONS 

• High school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver’s license are required. 
• A background check including criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries will be required prior to being hired.
• A background form, pre-interview questionnaire and writing assessment must be completed prior to interviewing for position.

UPON HIRE 

• Successful completion of the Pre-Service training class for prison personnel.
• Successful completion of Corrections & Detention Officer Basic Training at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy within the first year of employment.
• Correctional Officers will be required to participate in weapon familiarization with firearms (AR-15, 12-gauge shotgun, and 9 mm pistol) during the two-week pre-service training and/or on-the-job training program.
• Firearms familiarization is a condition of employment. Failure to meet qualification standards with firearms will prohibit the CO from being assigned to armed posts or duties.
• Annual TB testing is mandatory.

PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER INFORMATION 

This position requires POST Basic Certification after attending training at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy and successfully completing one year of employment with the Department of Corrections.  In addition to the training and experience requirements, to be POST Certified, the successful candidate(s) must: 

1. Be a citizen of the United States of America;
2. Be at least 18 years of age;
3. Be fingerprinted for a criminal history search;
4. Not have been convicted of a crime for which s/he could have been imprisoned in a federal or state penitentiary;
5. Be of good moral character, as determined by a thorough background screen;
6. Be a high school graduate or issued a GED or its equivalent; AND,
7. Possess or be eligible for a valid Montana driver’s license.   

Minimum Physical/Mental Requirements

• Regular exposure to temperature extremes. 
• Ability to climb and descend multiple stairs and ladders, work at heights up to 50 ft for long periods of time.
• Lifting, pushing, pulling, or dragging heavy furniture, equipment or people up to 30 pounds alone, and up to 100 pounds with assistance.
• Climbing and crawling
• Visual acuity, attention to detail, must remain alert and ready to react throughout the entire shift.
• Remaining on feet for long periods of time, walking on hard surfaces.
• Sitting for long periods of time.
• Ability to respond to verbal communication, alarms, telephones, and radio communication equipment.
• Respond in the event of an emergency, which may include working long hours, mandatory overtimes, reporting to work prior to the start of the shift or staying after the shift normally ends. 
• Stressful working conditions.
• Ability to exert physical force and the use of weapons or restraints, including handcuffs or other physical restraints, firearms, and self-defense techniques. 
• Must be physically and legally able to drive a vehicle.
•  

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS - Applications missing required documentation may not be considered.

• State of Montana Application
• Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process, please make sure all attachments are marked as RELEVANT.
• If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.
• Background screens which may include criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries, and reference checks will be conducted for this position.

BENEFITS 

• Employment with the state may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under PSLF.  Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!
• Health Insurance
• Paid Leave & Holidays
• Game Warden Retirement Pan

Questions? Email or call 406-444-0029

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

PROBATION & PAROLE

MISSOULA,  MT

JOB OVERVIEW - This position is responsible for:

• Managing phone calls for the assigned office.
• Refers complaints and concerns with offenders, offender’s families, criminal justice system members and the general public to the appropriate staff. 
• Creates and/or prepares letters, memos, forms, meeting schedules, reports, etc., using word processing, spreadsheet, and database and/or presentation software.
• Maintains data logs in established software programs and produces statistical information upon request. 
• Coordinates and schedules meetings as requested.
• Makes all necessary travel arrangements for staff as requested. 
• Has daily initial contact with offenders, visitors, and others who may be hostile or under the influence of substances.

QUALIFICATIONS

The knowledge, skills, and abilities of this position are normally attained through combination of education and experience equivalent to:

• A high school diploma or equivalent and 1 to 2 years of job-related work experience.
• Other combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  
  

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS – Applications missing required documentation may not be considered.

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• State of Montana Application

Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process, please make sure all attachments are marked as RELEVANT.

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Background screens which may include criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries, and reference checks will be conducted for this position.

BENEFITS 

Employment with the state may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under PSLF.  Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!

Questions? Email or call 406-444-0029

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT - WARDEN'S OFFICE

MONTANA STATE PRISON

DEER LODGE, MT

JOB OVERVIEW – The Warden’s Office is responsible for overall policy development, management direction, planning, and administration of Montana State Prison. The Warden’s Office serves as liaison for the prison between the Director's Office, Governor's Office, state and federal agencies, legislators, wardens, administrators, and superintendents of state institutions, and the public. This position will:

• Greet visitors, answer inquiries and direct visitors to the appropriate person according to their needs.
• Answer telephones and give information to callers, record messages and transfer calls to appropriate individuals.
• Handle incoming and outgoing mail, emails, and faxes. Prepare responses to correspondence containing routine inquires. 
• Manage paper or electronic filing systems, recording and verifying information, updating paperwork, or maintaining documents, such as correspondence and other materials.
• Operate office machines, such as photocopiers and scanners, facsimile machines, voice mail systems, and personal computers. Monitor and maintain office supplies and equipment.
• Maintain and enter information into databases.
• Proofread documents, records, or other files to ensure accuracy.
• Schedule and confirm appointments, events, travel, or meetings for clients, customers, or supervisors.
• Provide services to staff or customers, such as order placement, account information, or invoice processing.
• Type and distribute meeting agendas, notes, routine correspondence, or routine reports or take meeting minutes.

QUALIFICATIONS  

• High school diploma and
• 1 year of experience performing a variety of office support or clerical work. 

Other combinations of education and experience may be substituted

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS  

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• State of Montana Application

Applications submitted without required materials may not be considered.

Materials submitted but not requested may not be considered in the selection process.

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Background screens which may include criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries, and reference checks will be conducted for this position.

BENEFITS 

Employment with the state may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under PSLF.  Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!

Questions? Email or call 406-444-0029

CHIEF LEGAL COUNSEL

LEGAL SERVICES

HELENA, MT

JOB OVERVIEW – The Montana Department of Corrections is looking for an experienced attorney to join the Legal Services Bureau as Chief Legal Counsel. The Chief Legal Counsel is responsible for leading, supervising, and managing the Legal Services Bureau with the Montana Department of Corrections. Responsibilities include case assignment, distribution, oversight of ongoing litigation, consultation with external counsel, and supervision of bureau attorneys, Paralegals and support staff. The incumbent may case load as needed and will work closely with the Chief General Counsel. The incumbent provides counsel, advice and assistance to the Director and staff.

Litigation

• The Chief Legal Counsel may assume a portion of the litigation caseload that comes into the Legal Service Bureau.
•  Work closely with legal services staff to assure that the cases are coordinated and monitored to assure department   staff and issues are supported through effective and uniform litigation.
• Consults with Director regarding complex cases to develop strategies that will result in the best outcomes for the department.
• May present arguments both orally and in writing, prepare and review briefing, and participate in all aspects of legal proceedings in both State and federal courts.
• Initiates and conducts settlement negotiations, which are binding on the Department or the Risk Management and Tort Defense Division.
• Evaluates each adverse decision for appeal and defends appeals brought by opposing counsel. On appeal, must file all requisite notices, research and write appellate briefs and argues orally before the appellate court.
• May represent the Department, its officers and employees in administrative proceedings.
• Act as liaison with outside counsel representing the Department.

Supervision

• Responsible for the day-to-day management, supervision, and oversight of the Legal Services Bureau.
• Manages bureau litigation and project caseloads by assigning cases and projects providing equitable distribution based on technical knowledge of case complexity and resource needed
• Supervises attorney work, including monitoring of strategies, progress and resolution of cases.
• Provides coaching, oversight and evaluation of bureau staff attorney’s work.
• Supervises bureau staff including recruiting and selection processes.
• Approves time sheet submissions and requests for leave.
• Manages bureau budget, providing and reviewing expenditure information.
• Manages and serves as liaison for outside legal contracts making determinations on appropriate law firms.

General Counsel Functions 

• Provides and oversees the Bureau’s general legal advice to Department clients.
•  Answers legal questions, orally and in writing, presented by department administrators and employees concerning interpretation and application of statutes, rules and regulations and case law
• Responds to questions orally or in writing presented by county attorneys, defense attorneys, and others including judges concerning the application and interpretation of statutes, rules and regulations especially in the area of criminal sentencing, department programs and sentence calculations.
• Oversees promulgation of Administrative Rules, policies and procedures.
•  Provides advice on general government matters including, legal compliance, land use, public records requests, and financial obligations.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Juris Doctorate degree form an accredited law school.
• 5 yrs experience in progressively more difficult legal work.
• 1 yr managerial experience preferably in the public sector.
• Must be admitted to practice law in Montana and federal district court. 

 

APPLICATION MATERIALS – Applications missing required documentation may not be considered.

• Cover Letter 
• Resume
• State of Montana Application

Materials submitted but not requested may not be considered in the selection process, please make sure all attachments are marked as RELEVANT.

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Background screens which may include criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries, and reference checks will be conducted for this position.

 

BENEFITS

Employment with the state may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under PSLF.  Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!

Questions? Email or call 406-444-0029

CLINICAL THERAPIST

MONTANA STATE PRISON

DEER LODGE, MT

 

JOB OVERVIEW – The Montana State mental health bureau mission is to "deliver evidence-based services to meet the needs of incarcerated individuals who suffer from severe and persistent mental illness, acute emotional disturbances, and to prevent suicide and self-harm."

• The clinical therapist positions will ensure that the clinical needs of the inmate population are provided through clinical assessments, evaluations, diagnoses, therapeutic groups and individual sessions, emergency evaluations and management, and to provide clinical consultations.
• Observe patients to detect indications of abnormal physical or mental behavior.
• Manage case files and records for patients in treatment for mental and emotional illness.

 QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s Degree in social work, psychology, or counseling.
• 1 year of job-related experience. 
• Must be licensed or able to be licensed as a licensed clinical social worker or licensed clinical professional counselor by the state of Montana.
• Must be licensed within a year of hire date.
  
  

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS

Applications submitted without required materials may not be considered.

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• State of Montana Application

Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process, please make sure all attachments are marked as RELEVANT.

Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Background screens which may include criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries, and reference checks will be conducted for this position.

BENEFITS

• Employment with the state may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under PSLF.  Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!
  
  

Questions? Email or call 406-444-0029

CORRECTIONAL OFFICER

MONTANA WOMEN’S PRISON

BILLINGS, MT

This position is responsible for the overall safety and security of inmates, staff and visitors of Montana Women’s Prison. Correctional Officers help ensure the institution is operated for the safety of the public, as well as the incarceration, treatment and rehabilitation of the inmate population. Correctional Officers oversee all aspects of the basic needs and welfare of adult female felons assigned to housing units utilizing special training, listening skills, verbal communication skills, the ability to provide empathy and compassion as situations warrant, tact, knowledge of policies, the inmate, the situation at hand, motivational techniques, the ability to create, foster and maintain a degree of trust.

QUALIFICATIONS - High school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver’s license are required.

A background check including criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries will be required prior to being hired.

UPON HIRE - Successful completion of Corrections & Detention Officer Basic Training at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy within the first year of employment.

PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER INFORMATION

This position requires POST Basic Certification after attending training at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy and successfully completing one year of employment with the Department of Corrections.  In addition to the training and experience requirements, to be POST Certified, the successful candidate(s) must:

 Be a citizen of the United States of America;

1. Be at least 18 years of age;
2. Be fingerprinted for a criminal history search;
3. Not have been convicted of a crime for which s/he could have been imprisoned in a federal or state penitentiary;
4. Be of good moral character, as determined by a thorough background screen;
5. Be a high school graduate or issued a GED or its equivalent; AND,
6. Possess or be eligible for a valid Montana driver’s license.

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS – State of Montana Application

Applications submitted without required materials may not be considered.

Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process, please make sure all attachments are marked as RELEVANT.

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Background screens which may include criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries, and reference checks will be conducted for this position.

BENEFITS 

• Employment with the state may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under PSLF.  Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!

Questions? Email or call 406-444-0029

CORRECTIONAL OFFICER

PINE HILLS CORRECTIONAL FACILITY

MILES CITY, MT

JOB OVERVIEW 

• Responsible for the overall safety and security of inmates, staff and visitors of Montana Women’s Prison.
• Helps ensure the institution is operated for the safety of the public, as well as the incarceration, treatment and rehabilitation of the inmate population.
• Oversees all aspects of the basic needs and welfare of adult female felons assigned to the facility utilizing special training, listening skills, verbal communication skills, the ability to provide empathy and compassion as situations warrant, tact, knowledge of policies, the inmate, the situation at hand, motivational techniques, the ability to create, foster and maintain a degree of trust.

PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER INFORMATION

This position requires POST Basic Certification after attending training at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy and successfully completing one year of employment with the Department of Corrections.  In addition to the training and experience requirements, to be POST Certified, the successful candidate(s) must:

1. Be a citizen of the United States of America;
2. Be at least 18 years of age;
3. Be fingerprinted for a criminal history search;
4. Not have been convicted of a crime for which s/he could have been imprisoned in a federal or state penitentiary;
5. Be of good moral character, as determined by a thorough background screen;
6. Be a high school graduate or issued a GED or its equivalent; AND,
7. Possess or be eligible for a valid Montana driver’s license.

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS

Applications missing required documentation may not be considered.

• State of Montana Application

Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process, please make sure all attachments are marked as RELEVANT.

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Background screens which may include criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries, and reference checks will be conducted for this position.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• A valid driver’s license is required.
• A background check and check of DPHHS Child Abuse Registry will be required prior to being hired.

UPON HIRE

Successful completion of Corrections & Detention Officer Basic Training at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy within the first year of employment.

BENEFITS

Employment with the state may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under PSLF.  Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!

Questions? Email or call 406-444-0029

PSI WRITER

BILLINGS PROBATION & PAROLE OFFICE

Great Falls, MT

JOB OVERVIEW

• The PSI Writer, at the order of the district court judges, conducts pre-sentence investigations, which includes risk and needs assessments.
• Through the use of motivational interviewing, conduct risk and needs assessments and utilizing various instruments with offenders, makes recommendations to address the risks and needs of various offenders.
• Interviews the offender, victims, witness and other individuals who would have relevant information pertaining to the offender or the crime and reduce this information to writing what is contained within the Pre-Sentence Investigation Report.
• Develops reports and determines the appropriate sentencing and placement recommendations by using specialized investigative and communicative skills; through cooperation with other criminal justice agencies; a thorough knowledge of the laws, sentencing rules and regulations pertaining to probation, parole, incarceration, rehabilitation and treatment programs. Investigates the personal and criminal history of the offender through document searches and interviews with others.
• Gathers information and composes Pre-Sentence Investigation Reports (PSI) & Reports of Violation (ROV) for officer review.
• Distributes approved reports and ensures all documents are accurate and in correct format, signed, ensuring the Division’s policies are understood, followed, in compliance with court ordered conditions and identifies the public safety risks for the other state.
• Attends court on “Law & Motion” day, in absence of the probation & parole officer, to obtain court dates and information for pre-sentence investigation and reports of violation.
• Testifies through the direct and cross examination with prosecutors and defense counsel, in the court of law to the accuracy and authenticity of the information contained within the report.
• Tracks the offenders reporting schedules, meeting supervision standards, ensuring pre-sentence investigation reports and deadlines are met, and documenting offender chronos in OMIS.
• Assists in determining if an offender is eligible for Interstate Compact Supervision based on community safety, the compact criteria, treatment plan, residence, and receiving states individual regulations.
• Obtains and calculates restitution, court costs and supervision fees for monthly report and outstanding balances by calling and requesting logs from the county attorneys and the clerks of court; tracking financial obligations and corresponding with offenders to alert them to their financial situation; gathers information relevant to changes in court schedules.
• Enters offender information into OMIS /OMP and obtains OMIS DOC numbers for offenders.
• Collects and compiles statistical data; creates reports and provides information to the appropriate personnel and agencies.
• Assists PPO with obtaining and filing documentation necessary to complete the PSI and ROV reports. Gathers police record checks by calling law enforcement agencies or authorized persons within the department and requesting “rap” sheets or Criminal Justice Information Network (CJIN) criminal records on offenders.
• Receives information on DOC commits from officers and assists officer in ensuring that all required documentation is assembled and forwarded to the records department at the Montana State Prison. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• The above knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform this position are typically acquired through an associate degree in criminology, human behavior and social work or related fields AND two years law enforcement or public safety experience.
• Some higher education in criminology, human behavior and social work and related fields and two years’ experience in law enforcement or public safety preferred; OR a combination of higher education and experience.
• The successful candidate must be able to type 40 wpm.

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS – Cover Letter, Resume, State of Montana Application

Applications missing required documentation may not be considered.

Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process, please make sure all attachments are marked as RELEVANT

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Background screens which may include criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries, and reference checks will be conducted for this position.

BENEFITS 

• Employment with the state may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under PSLF.  Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!

Questions? Email or call 406-444-0029

PROBATION & PAROLE OFFICER

GREAT FALLS PROBATION OFFICE

GREAT FALLS, MT

JOB OVERVIEW – This position, guided by the Department of Corrections (DOC) mission, plays a central role in managing the correctional population, promoting public safety and encouraging offenders to make positive life changing decisions for their future. To carry out this responsibility:

• The officer cooperates with, and solicits information from, the public and criminal justice system and supervises and counsels 80-100 offenders.
• Must have skills and abilities to equally balance social work and law enforcement duties.
• The officer conducts pre-sentence investigations and makes placement recommendations concerning those offenders sentenced to DOC. These investigations are completed with cooperation from other criminal justices’ agencies and by using investigative skills; knowledge of laws, rules and regulations pertaining to probation, parole, incarceration, rehabilitation and treatment programs, as well as knowledge of behavioral science.
• The officer then makes recommendations for rehabilitation, treatment plans, conditions of probation, the need for incarceration, and appropriate level (i.e. local jail or Montana State Prison) to the District Court and Parole Board through a written pre-sentence investigation report.
• Officers refer offenders to appropriate resources or programs using departments supervision standards, a risk and needs assessment as well as knowledge of state and community resources and monitors the progress of the client for compliance.
• Officers investigate alleged violations of probation or parole using knowledge of policies & procedures pertaining to violations, search warrants & investigations.
• Officers arrest and detain violators and testify in district court and information hearings relative to sentencing or revocation of client’s probation or parole status.
• Officers are trained to handle situations if probation & parole offenders or inmates become hostile & pose a physical threat. This requires the use of Oleoresin Capsicum “O.C. Spray” and firearms and carrying handcuffs.
• Work is of the nature that Officers may work varying schedules to include nights and week-end hours and that the Officer may be called back to work at any hour of the day or night and be available 24/7 when called upon to assist any Department of Corrections Facility or Law Enforcement Agency. The Officer needs to physically make an arrest, defend selves, in high-risk volatile scenarios in and away from the office.
• Travel for job may be required up to 10% of the time in addition to travel for training.

PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER INFORMATION

This position requires POST Basic Certification after attending training at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy and successfully completing one year of employment with the Department of Corrections.  In addition to the training and experience requirements, to be POST Certified, the successful candidate(s) must: 

1. Be a citizen of the United States of America;
2. Be at least 18 years of age;
3. Be fingerprinted for a criminal history search;
4. Not have been convicted of a crime for which s/he could have been imprisoned in a federal or state penitentiary;
5. Be of good moral character, as determined by a thorough background screen;
6. Be a high school graduate or issued a GED or its equivalent; AND,
7. Possess or be eligible for a valid Montana driver’s license.

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS – Applications missing required documentation may not be considered.

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• State of Montana Application

Background screens which may include criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries, and reference checks will be conducted for this position.

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process, please make sure all attachments are marked as RELEVANT.

BENEFITS 

Employment with the state may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under PSLF.  Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!

Questions? Email or Call 406-444-0029

PROBATION & PAROLE SERGEANT

BILLINGS PROBATION OFFICE

BILLINGS, MT

JOB OVERVIEW – Probation and Parole (P&P) is a Bureau within the Department of Corrections (DOC) and is responsible for the statewide supervision and rehabilitation of approximately 7500 adult felony offenders.  Probation and Parole plays a vital role in managing the overall system.  Probation and Parole is the only corrections program that:

• Has contact with, or control of, virtually every person convicted of a felony criminal violation
• This contact begins with a pre-sentence investigation, which may lead to a prison term, and usually ends in subsequent release back into the community under supervision. 

The Probation and Parole role in communities includes:

• Counseling, coordinating treatment and rehabilitation services;
• Overseeing offenders to ensure public safety by successfully reintegrating the offender into society, placements, and intermediate sanctions.

Sergeants are also called upon to:

• Arrest, detain violators, and testify in district court information hearings relative to sentencing or revocation of client’s probation or parole status.
• Officers are trained to handle situations if probation & parole offenders or inmates become hostile & pose a physical threat. This requires the use of Oleoresin Capsicum “O.C. Spray” and firearms and carrying handcuffs.
• May be called back to work at any hour of the day and an officer may need to physically make an arrest, engage in forced entry and either employ or be in proximity of firearms or other dangerous weapons and access closed or hazardous areas.
• Must reside in area and be within a 30-minute response time to the office.
• Work is of the nature that Public Safety Officers may work varying schedules to include nights and week-end hours and that the Officer may be called back to work at any hour of the day or night and be available 24/7 when called upon to assist any Department of Corrections Facility or Law Enforcement Agency. The Officer needs to physically make an arrest, defend selves, in high-risk volatile scenarios in and away from the office.
• Travel is required.

Personnel

• Interview, hire, train appraise, reward/discipline, advance/terminate employees;
• Complete performance evaluations on POs; 
• Approve and submit time sheets. 
• Provides guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance. 
• Provides coaching, mentoring, and discipline as needed to ensure professional growth of staff. 
• Identifies developmental training needs of employees to assist in continued growth of knowledge and skills. 
• Offer specific training programs to help staff maintain or improve job skills. 
• Schedules and facilitates regular staff meetings with Probation and Parole staff.
• Reviews Reports of Violation written by Probation and Parole Officers prior to the report being submitted to the revoking authority. 
• Oversees the issue of equipment for Probation and Parole staff, including firearms and state vehicles. 
• Oversees the evidence room and assist assigned Probation and Parole Officers on proper storage as per policy. 
• Screens, trains, evaluates, and supervises college interns/citizen volunteers and/or coordinates their internship/volunteer work with the assistance of Probation and Parole staff.  
• Conducts regular case management audits as required per policy.

Program

• In the absence of the Captain, Sergeants must perform all duties of the Captain
• Assists in the planning of Community Corrections Facilities, Regional Prisons and Intensive Supervision Programs. 
• May assist with screening for community placement of those offenders that are in a secure facility such as a regional prison. Supervises the Intensive Supervision Program as assigned. Authorizes the placement of DOC committed offenders.
• Coordinates and facilitates transfers of in-state offenders when requested by another office. Assigns cases accordingly for offenders requesting to transfer their supervision. May serve as a liaison with various outside agencies, including but not limited to; local law enforcement, the Court system, county jail, Department of Health and Human Services, and chemical dependency treatment providers
• Performs public relations duties as assigned, including but not limited to: answering questions and complaints from the public, speaking at public hearings, and giving presentations to the public. Receives the itemized bills for jail costs of Department of Corrections' residents/clients from County Sheriff's office.  Reviews the claims for accuracy and pre-approves for the Captain.

Administrative Hearings

Conduct Hearings that protect the public and ensures the rights of both male and female inmates, parolees, probationers, and conditionally released offenders are adhered to through the impartial application of hearing procedures that incorporate all applicable due process rights.  Ensures fair and consistent administrative hearings. Conducts Preliminary On-site Hearings on parolees and interstate offenders to determine whether there is probable cause to believe that they have violated conditions of their release. Conducts Disciplinary Hearings on inmates who have been placed into a Community Corrections Center and on conditionally released offenders. Conducts disciplinary hearings held on Ten-Day Furlough inmates temporarily released from a secure facility or community-based program, and who have allegedly violated his/her ten-day furlough program.  Conducts Intervention Hearings on parolees, probationers, and conditional release offenders to determine conditions the offender is not complying with, and to develop a formal contract to achieve compliance.  To include Sanctions, offenders to custody and treatment.  As they render their hearing disposition the offenders are placed in the most appropriate placement by the respective hearing officer.

Liaison Officer with the Community Corrections Centers

Acts as the liaison with the local Community Corrections Center, which may include the men's and women’s pre-release center, the Connections Corrections Program, the Treasure State Correctional Training Center, the Missoula Assessment and Sanction Center, the Billings Assessment and Sanction Center, and the Warm Springs Addiction Treatment and Change Program.  May assist the DOC Compliance Monitoring team to evaluate the Community Corrections Center's Personnel and Safety Policies ensuring compliance with Department of Corrections' guidelines. Authorizes Center residents to travel outside the boundaries of the county, for the Department of Corrections through weekly resident evaluations. Assists the Institutional Probation and Parole Officers when assigning cases and coordinating discharge planning and reentry of inmates being released from a secure facility or community-based program.  Serves as a member of the Community Corrections Center candidate screening committee by reviewing prison records for compliance with institution rules and regulations.  Consults with Community Corrections Center staff and resident/clients regarding parole planning and parole screening.  Completes initial "sign-up" for resident/clients paroling or discharging their sentences to locations outside the Probation and Parole district. Coordinates and oversees the conditional release process for those offenders who are in a Community Corrections Center and who are requesting release.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in behavioral science such as criminology, psychology, social work, sociology, or guidance counseling AND 3 years of experience in Probation and Parole.  
• Equivalent work experience may be substituted for the educational requirement.
• Related work experience in the areas listed in subsection (1)(b) may be substituted for educational requirements at the rate of 1 year of experience for 9 months formal education if approved by the department. 
• All present employees are exempt from this requirement but are encouraged to further their education at the earliest opportunity.

PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER INFORMATION

This position requires POST Basic Certification after attending training at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy and successfully completing one year of employment with the Department of Corrections.  In addition to the training and experience requirements, to be POST Certified, the successful candidate(s) must: 

1. Be a citizen of the United States of America;
2. Be at least 18 years of age;
3. Be fingerprinted for a criminal history search;
4. Not have been convicted of a crime for which s/he could have been imprisoned in a federal or state penitentiary;
5. Be of good moral character, as determined by a thorough background screen;
6. Be a high school graduate or issued a GED or its equivalent; AND,
7. Possess or be eligible for a valid Montana driver’s license.  

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS – Applications missing required documentation may not be considered.

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• State of Montana Application

Background screens which may include criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries, and reference checks will be conducted for this position.

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process, please make sure all attachments are marked as RELEVANT.

BENEFITS 

Employment with the state may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under PSLF.  Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!

Questions? Email or Call 406-444-0029

REGISTERED NURSE - PER DIEM*

MONTANA WOMEN'S PRISON

BILLINGS, MT

JOB OVERVIEW – This position will serve as an per diem Registered Nurse and provide medical management services to inmates at either the Montana State Prison, Montana Women's Prison, Riverside Special Needs Unit or Pine Hills Correctional Facility  

• Medical management includes initial screening/assessment, triage and appropriate referral, daily sick call, medication administration, med-surge, psych, urgent/emergent, continuous quality improvement, chronic care, infection control, and discharge planning. 
• Patients need round-the-clock care; therefore, working hours include days, nights, weekends and holidays. The number of patients assigned per shift will vary with facility and specialty, if applicable. 
• RNs spend considerable time walking, bending, kneeling, stretching and standing; they must follow proper body mechanics and procedures for lifting/moving patients.  
• Corrections Nurses may face hazards from exposure to chemicals and infectious diseases. In addition, nurses in this position must have and maintain sufficient strength, agility and endurance to perform during physical, mental, and emotional situations encountered on the job without compromising their health and well-being. 
• In a correctional environment, all staff receive specific training in the areas of security and correctional procedures and there are many security measures in place. Nurses working in correctional facilities must accept that the fundamental mission of a correctional facility is first and foremost public safety and security. While the delivery of healthcare is an important component of the institutional program, it is not the primary reason that the facility exists. 
• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach forward with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to sit and stoop, kneel, or crouch. 
• The employee must be able to hear clearly on a telephone and in direct contact with patients and coworkers. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 20 pounds and occasionally lift or move 50 lbs. 
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  
  

QUALIFICATIONS

• A college degree in Registered Nursing
• Licensed to practice as a Registered Nurse in the state of Montana is required.
  
  

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS

Applications submitted without required materials may not be considered.

• State of Montana Application
• Cover Letter
• Resume
• References

Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process, please make sure all attachments are marked as RELEVANT.

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Background screens which may include criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries, and reference checks will be conducted for this position.

BENEFITS

Employment with the state may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under PSLF.  Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!

Questions? Email or call 406-444-0029

RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES SPECIALIST

MONTANA STATE PRISON

DEER LODGE, MT

JOB OVERVIEW – The Religious Activities Specialist is primarily responsible for advising and supervising religious activities and volunteer programs in the RAC (Religious Activities Center) located at Montana State Prison and in the WRC (Work and Reentry Center).

• Supervises a volunteer base of approximately 250 through orientation, direct feedback, and correspondence in order to facilitate authentic religious activity and maintain sound penological practice.
• Supervises two inmate workers to maintain RAC facilities, support RAC programs, and develop positive offender job skills and work habits. 
• Assists and cooperates with the RAC Coordinator in expanding the network of religious program providers.
• Supervises the operation of religious activities and volunteers in developing and implementing policies, procedures, and priorities consistent with MSP policies, procedures, missions, and goals. 
• Monitors religious programs that take into account the diverse religious / spiritual needs of the offender population.  Ensures that offenders receive opportunities for pastoral care and counseling, guidance in spiritual and moral development, and support in times of crisis by scheduling appointments with the chaplain service volunteers or other volunteers as requested.
• Prepare, arrange, and set-up for regular and special religious services (communion, baptism, sweat re-builds, drum, etc.). 
• Maintains records relating to physical resources, offender participation, volunteer information, security practices, staff activities, and other areas as needed. 
• Maintains a dynamic schedule of religious activities (across the religious spectrum) for RAC and WRC. 
• Ensures that the RAC’s threefold mission of guaranteeing Constitutional rights, accomplishing institutional objectives, and realizing authentic spiritual development is successful.
• Responds to the requests of the RAC coordinator. 
• Builds an increasing knowledge of religious practice in order to help staff, offenders, and volunteers implement, manage, and participate in effective programming. 
• Studies pertinent legislation and case law as directed by the RAC coordinator.
• Develops and maintains effective and cooperative relationships and partnerships with community religious organizations, spiritual leaders, and denominations to assist in the provision of essential religious services. 
• Cooperates in providing resources to institutional staff during periods of duress.
• Participates in the greater community of correctional professionals in a positive way and models the Guiding Principles of MSP.
• Performs other duties as requested.
                                                                                                

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Two years job-related work experience in correctional supervision, rehabilitation, treatment, or programming. 
• A combination of experience and education may be considered.
• Bachelors degree is preferred but experience equivalent acceptable.
   

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS

Applications submitted without required materials may not be considered

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• State of Montana Application
• Supplemental Question

SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTION:  Describe the work environment or culture in which you are most productive and happy.

Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process, please make sure all attachments are marked as RELEVANT

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Background screens which may include criminal records check, child/patient/offender abuse registries, and reference checks will be conducted for this position.

BENEFITS 

Employment with the state may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under PSLF.  Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!


Questions? Email or call 406-444-0029