Psychological Services Specialist, DOC - SCI Phoenix
About The Position
The Psychological Services Specialist supports the mental health needs of inmates at the State Correctional Institution at Phoenix. The role provides counseling assistance, supports psychological evaluations, and contributes to treatment planning under professional oversight. Its work promotes emotional stability, healthy behavior, and successful adjustment within a structured treatment environment where safety and emotional growth are priorities. The position is full-time, 37.5 hours per week. Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with a 30-minute lunch, on either Tuesday through Saturday or Sunday through Thursday. Telework is not available. The position is eligible for full retirement benefits at age 50 or 55. New Commonwealth of Pennsylvania employees start at an annual salary of $69,086 before taxes. Additional pay may be considered for candidates who hold or obtain Pennsylvania licensure as a Social Worker, Clinical Social Worker, or Professional Counselor. Applicants need a master’s degree in psychology or a closely related field that includes 15 graduate-level credits in psychology or counseling. Applicants within three months of graduating with a qualifying degree may be considered to have met the education requirement. Pennsylvania residency, successful completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, the ability to perform essential job functions, a background investigation, and compliance with Criminal Justice Information Services requirements are also required.
Requirements
- A master’s degree in psychology or a closely related field that includes 15 graduate-level credits in psychology or counseling; applicants within three months of graduating with a qualifying degree may be considered to have met this requirement.
- Meet the Pennsylvania residency requirement.
- Successfully complete basic training in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania.
- Be able to perform the essential job functions.
- Pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.
Nice To Haves
- Pennsylvania licensure as a Social Worker, Clinical Social Worker, or Professional Counselor may qualify the employee for additional pay consideration.
Responsibilities
- Provide individual and group counseling on topics such as anger management, sleep hygiene, and prison adjustment.
- Conduct interviews, help administer tests, and discuss results with supervising psychologists.
- Coordinate with institutional departments and outside agencies to support mental health services.
- Prepare case summaries and behavior plans for review by a licensed psychologist.
- Assist with studies intended to improve psychological services across the institution.
Benefits
- Eligible for full retirement benefits at age 50 or 55.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
