Program Specialist 1

PLACEMENT UNIT PROGRAM SPECIALIST

MONTANA DEPT. OF CORRECTIONS

HELENA, MT

The Montana Department of Corrections (DOC) is creating a safer Montana through Accountability, Rehabilitation and Empowerment. If you want to work making positive changes in your community, the Montana Department of Corrections is the place for you!

JOB SUMMARY– The Placement Unit Program Specialist plays a critical role in the Department’s community corrections process by supporting the quality assurance and screening of offenders referred to Community Corrections facilities. This position ensures accurate documentation, reviews data for accuracy and completeness, adheres to established procedures, and supports consistent, policy‑aligned placement decisions. The specialist will work closely with internal teams, facility partners, and supervisory staff to maintain consistency, professionalism, and efficiency throughout the placement workflow.

• Conduct thorough reviews and quality assurance checks on offender screening packets prior to placement into Community Corrections facilities.

• Ensure all documentation is complete, accurate, and aligned with Department standards and policies.

• Communicate clearly and professionally with internal units, community partners, and facility representatives to facilitate timely and appropriate placement decisions.

• Track and coordinate movements between placements, maintaining updated records and ensuring a seamless transition process.

• Use sound decision‑making and critical‑thinking skills to resolve discrepancies, identify issues, and recommend appropriate next steps.

• Work both independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented environment to meet deadlines and maintain operational efficiency.

• Assist in developing and improving placement-related processes and tools to better support program goals.

Assist in developing and improving placement-related processes and tools to better support program goals.

QUALIFICATIONS –

• High school diploma

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and competing priorities.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to convey information professionally and succinctly.

• Effective decision-making skills, with the ability to analyze information and apply policy appropriately.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while contributing positively to a team.

• Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accuracy and compliance in all work products..

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS:

Your service is rewarded with competitive compensation and generous State of Montana Benefits.

State of Montana employment may qualify for student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Only online applications are accepted. By applying online, you are able to receive updates and monitor the status of your application.

Require Application Materials:

• State Application

• Resume

• Cover letter

To initiate an application and be considered, you must attach your resume, cover letter, and mark the attachments as a “Relevant File”. In your cover letter, state why you are applying for the position and anything that makes you uniquely qualified. Applications missing required documentation may not be considered.

Successful applicants will be subject to:

• Criminal history check

• Reference checks

NOTICES:

Brady Act & Lautenberg Amendment - Any person who has been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence or is the subject of a court order of protection for “an intimate partner or child of such intimate partner” cannot lawfully possess a firearm or ammunition (Title 18, U.S.C., Section 922(g)(91)). Candidates who have been convicted of any felony or a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence or were issued a court order of protection are not qualified for this position.

Prison Rape Elimination Act - Any person who has 1) engaged in sexual abuse in a prison, jail, lockup, community confinement facility, juvenile facility, or other institution; 2) been convicted of engaging in or attempting to engage in sexual activity in the community facilitated by force, overt or implied threats of force, or coercion, or if the victim did not consent or was unable to consent or refuse; or 3) been civilly or administratively adjudicated to have engaged in activity as described in the latter, are not qualified for this position.

Tobacco Free - The use of all tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco products and tobacco substitutes is prohibited in Department of Corrections buildings. In secure care facilities possession of tobacco products is prohibited.

Anyone who needs to request a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the HR staff identified on the job listing or by dialing the Montana Relay at 711. Montana Job Service Offices also offer services including assistance with submitting an online application.

State government does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, creed, political beliefs or affiliation, veteran status, military service, retaliation, or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant.