Correctional Counselor

Position Overview

This role involves providing professional counseling services aimed at rehabilitating adult offenders both within correctional facilities and through community supervision programs. The Correctional Counselor operates under a technical supervisor and collaborates with a team of counseling and institutional personnel to support inmate rehabilitation through personalized counseling sessions.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct one-on-one counseling with assigned inmates or clients.
• Create individualized treatment programs using information from inmate records, family, associates, employers, and team members.
• Evaluate inmates' progress in their rehabilitation and adapt treatment plans as necessary.
• Maintain detailed records and prepare reports regarding inmate progress, initial assessments, and security classifications.
• Participate in case conferences exploring alternative treatment strategies and facilitate referrals to relevant programs such as substance abuse or educational courses.
• Recommend appropriate inmate classification levels based on behavioral evaluations and compliance with rehabilitation efforts.
• Contribute actively to various committees including the Multi-Disciplinary Team's classification committee and inmate grievance boards.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Applicants must either hold a bachelor's degree or higher in Behavioral or Social Science or a related discipline or meet the following experience criteria:

• At least six months of experience in behavior management, understanding behavior patterns and implementing modification strategies.
• Six months experience in case management involving assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of human services.
• Six months experience conducting interviews using both structured and unstructured methods to gather facts and determine actions.
• Six months experience interpreting relevant laws, rules, policies, and procedures.
• Six months experience working with automated information systems for data management and reporting.
• Six months experience in narrative report writing.

Additional Hiring Information

Candidates must successfully complete a five-week Non-Security Basic Training Course at the Department of Correction Training Academy, which includes physical fitness, classroom instruction, and practical exercises. Applicants must be authorized to work legally in the U.S. and will undergo several pre-employment screenings including background check, physical tests, psychological evaluation, drug testing, medical examination, and tuberculosis screening.

Employment Conditions and Benefits

This position is represented by a collective bargaining unit with negotiated terms under Delaware state law. New hires must participate in the Statewide New Employee Orientation. For information on employee benefits, applicants can refer to the official state benefits portal.

Application and Selection Process

Applicants are assessed on their educational background, training, and relevant work experience. It is critical to provide complete and accurate job and education history. Communication after application submission will be via email.

Equal Opportunity and Accommodations

The employer encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and provides accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Contact details are available for requesting support or auxiliary aids.