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CDOC - Community Programs Specialist III (Re-Entry)

Colorado Department of Corrections, Grand Junction, CO, United States


As only open to Colorado state residents.

Benefits

Distinctive career advancement opportunities throughout the state system;

Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans. Member Contribution Rates. Correctional Officers I-IV qualify as "Safety Officers" and are eligible for increased PERA benefits;

Medical and dental health plans;

Short and long term disability coverage;

Paid life insurance;

11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave;

Wellness program, tuition reimbursement, training opportunities and more;

Visit State of Colorado Employee Benefits for more information.

Job Description Community Re‑Entry Specialists work within assigned parole offices. The position assesses the re‑entry needs of individuals, develops and implements transitional plans, provides case management to parolees to set goals and remove barriers, builds community resources/support, provides linkages to other agencies and organizations, and maintains/analyzes data concerning service provision.

The position works in close coordination with Community Parole Officers, Parole Release Case Managers, Education staff, state/local agency staff, community and faith‑based organizations, and others to enhance public safety.

Primary Job Duties

Assess re‑entry needs, barriers and strengths using formal and informal assessment tools;

Develop individualized transition plans based on assessed criminogenic needs and risks;

Deliver individualized case management and instruction in areas such as housing, employment, repairing family support systems, identifying thinking errors, and developing decision‑making skills for pro‑social change;

Facilitate interactive group modules using evidence‑based curriculum and technology;

Provide transitional services for high‑needs and homeless individuals in release transition meetings;

Work as part of the region/office or facility work team and become familiar with and adhere to all policies, processes, and procedures;

Attend multi‑agency case staffing and meetings with professionals to plan, develop, and implement re‑entry goals and objectives;

Develop partnerships and collaborate with community organizations and other agencies to connect individuals with resources and services specific to their re‑entry needs;

Maintain and analyze data, collect feedback and evaluate transitional service delivery and utilize information systems to maintain chronological records for re‑entry planning;

Perform other duties as assigned or required.

Minimum Qualifications Six (6) years of professional experience working directly with a hard‑to‑serve or high‑needs client population in a correctional or human services environment providing casework, coordination of services and identifying needs, and referring to appropriate resources. The experience must be described in detail on the application to receive credit. Experience may also include working with offenders in classification, placement, crisis intervention, and providing support for housing and employment.

Required Competencies

Self‑control and ability to work in stressful, potentially violent situations;

Ability to remain alert, emotionally stable, and mentally resilient under pressure and throughout the shift;

Tolerance to stress, confinement, and high‑stakes interactions;

Significant interpersonal / customer service skills;

Strong written and oral communication skills;

Highly effective critical thinking, decision‑making, and problem‑solving skills;

Demonstrated ability to organize, plan, and prioritize;

Keen ability to multi‑task and demonstrate flexibility;

Strong self‑motivation;

Compelling attention to detail;

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Suite (Gmail, Sheets, Docs);

Ability to read and comprehend the English language;

Ability to effectively communicate fluently in English both verbally and in writing.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working with incarcerated individuals;

Thorough knowledge of evidence‑based practices and interventions for the successful re‑entry of incarcerated individuals;

Experience with motivational interviewing;

Proven ability to provide efficient and effective service to hard‑to‑serve clients with medium/high risk needs;

Excellent ability to coordinate services and cooperate with others toward a common goal.

Basic Requirements & Eligibility

Must be 21 years of age or older;

Possess a valid Colorado driver's license;

Possess a high school diploma or GED;

Have no felony convictions;

Legally eligible to work in the United States;

Must successfully pass all modules of the six‑week Colorado Department of Corrections Basic Training;

Must meet the physical ability requirements for defensive tactics (lifting, striking, etc.).

The State of Colorado is an equal‑opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, ages, races, religions, sexes, disabilities, and other protected classes. The department complies with all applicable federal, state, and local equal‑employment opportunity laws.

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