About this opportunity
State of Pennsylvania lists this Corrections Counselor 1 - SCI Smithfield opportunity in harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Salary: $56,541.00 - $86,022.00 Annually
Location : Huntingdon County, PA
Job Type: Civil Service Permanent Full-Time
Job Number: CS-
Department: Department of Corrections
Division: CR SMI Trmt Svcs
Opening Date: 09/15/2026
Closing Date: 9/29/ :59 PM Eastern
Job Code: 47530
Position Number:
Union: SEIU Local 668
Bargaining Unit: F4
Pay Group: ST06
Bureau / Division Code:
Bureau / Division: SCI Smithfield / Treatment Services
Worksite Address: 1120 Pike Street
City: Huntingdon, Pennsylvania
Zip Code: 16654
Contact Name: Yen Le
Contact Phone:
Contact Email:
THE POSITION
As a Corrections Counselor 1 with the Department of Corrections (DOC), you will play a key role in guiding inmates toward positive change. You will support daily adjustment, encourage responsible choices, and help connect inmates with needed programs. This position provides a meaningful way to develop professional skills and serve the State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Smithfield community. Step into a role where steady guidance and communication make a lasting difference.
DESCRIPTION OF WORK
Corrections Counselors help inmates adjust to the institution by offering support, guidance, and basic casework services. This role focuses on communication, documentation, and helping inmates access programs that support positive behavior. As a Corrections Counselor 1, you will perform the following duties:
Inmate Interviews: Meet with inmates to discuss adjustment issues, concerns, and available support resources
Basic Casework: Maintain simple records, prepare routine reports, and document relevant information about inmate progress
Program Guidance: Provide information about educational, vocational, and re-entry programs, and explain how inmates may access them
Communication Support: Share important updates with staff, families, and outside agencies in a clear and respectful manner
Behavior Encouragement: Support positive conduct by offering feedback, discussing expectations, and reinforcing institutional rules
Caseload Assistance: Help manage routine caseload tasks, organize documents, and assist with preparation for meetings and evaluations
Work Schedule and Additional Information: Full-time employment, 40 hours per week
Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
Salary: Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $56,541.00 (before taxes).
You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Experience and Training Requirements: Three years and six months as a corrections officer, and 18 college credits in any combination of sociology, counseling, psychology, social work, corrections, criminal justice, or a related field; or
A bachelor's degree including 18 college credits in any combination of sociology, counseling, psychology, social work, corrections, criminal justice, or a related field; or
An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes 18 college credits in any combination of sociology, counseling, psychology, social work, corrections, criminal justice, or a related field.
Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree.
Special Requirements: You must obtain Commonwealth Law Enforcement Assistance Network (CLEAN) and Pennsylvania Justice Network (JNET) certification within two months of employment and maintain certification for the duration of employment in this job.
Other Requirements: Successful completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, PA is required.
You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines.
You must be able to perform essential job functions.
Legal Requirements: You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.
How to Apply: Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.
Veterans: Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to and click on Veterans.
Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).
If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.
The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.
EXAMINATION INFORMATION Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
You must provide complete and accurate information or: your score may be lower than deserved.
you may be disqualified.
You may only apply/test once for this posting.
Your results will be provided via email.
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See the total value of your benefits package by exploring our
Health & Wellness
We offer multiple health plans so our employees can choose what works best for themselves and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package includes health coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs.*
Compensation & Financial Planning
We invest in our employees by providing competitive wages and encouraging financial wellness by offering multiple ways to save money and ensure peace of mind including multiple retirement and investment plan options.
Work/Life Balance
We know there's more to life than just work! Our generous paid leave benefits include paid vacation, paid sick leave, eight weeks of paid parental leave, military leave, and paid time off for most major U.S. holidays, as well as flexible work schedules and work-from-home opportunities.*
Values and Culture
We believe in the work we do and provide continual opportunities for our employees to grow and contribute to the greater good. As one of the largest employers in the state, we provide opportunities for internal mobility, professional development, and the opportunity to give back by participating in workplace charitable giving.
Employee Perks
Sometimes, it is the little "extras" that make a big difference. Our employees receive special employee-only discounts and rates on a variety of services and memberships.
For more information on all of these Total Rewards benefits, please visit and click on the benefits box.
*Eligibility rules apply.
01
Have you completed at least 18 semester college credits in any combination of sociology, counseling, psychology, social work, corrections, criminal justice, or a related field?
If you are claiming credits/degree, you must upload a copy of your college transcript(s) for this education to be considered in the eligibility decision. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. You must attach your transcript(s) prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add a transcript(s) to the application after it has been submitted.
If you answer "Yes" to this question based on education acquired outside of the United States, you must upload a copy of your foreign credential evaluation report. We can only accept foreign credential evaluations from organizations that are members of the National Association of Credential Services (NACES). A list of current NACES members can be found by visiting and clicking the Evaluation Services Link.
You must attach your documentation prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add a document to the application after it has been submitted. Yes
No
02
If you claimed Yes, please list the courses you're claiming to meet the 18 semester college credit requirement. If you answered No, please type N/A.
03
Do you possess at least three years and six months of experience as a corrections officer? Yes
No
04
If you are claiming experience in the above question, please list the employer(s) where you gained this experience in the text box below. The employer(s) and a description of the experience must also be included in the appropriate sections of your application if you would like the experience to be considered in the eligibility decision. If you claimed you do not have experience, type N/A in the text box below.
05
Do you possess a conferred bachelor's degree (or higher) in any field, or are you within three months of completing a bachelor's degree (or higher) in any field?
If you are claiming credits/degree, you must upload a copy of your college transcript(s) for this education to be considered in the eligibility decision. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. You must attach your transcript(s) prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add a transcript(s) to the application after it has been submitted.
If you answer "Yes" to this question based on education acquired outside of the United States, you must upload a copy of your foreign credential evaluation report. We can only accept foreign credential evaluations from organizations that are members of the National Association of Credential Services (NACES). A list of current NACES members can be found by visiting and clicking the Evaluation Services Link.
You must attach your documentation prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add a document to the application after it has been submitted. Yes
No
06
If you do not have a conferred bachelor's degree or higher, on what date do you expect to receive your degree? Type N/A in the text box if this does not apply.
07
How much college coursework have you completed, in any field?
If you are claiming credits/degree, you must upload a copy of your college transcript(s) for this education to be considered in the eligibility decision. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. You must attach your transcript(s) prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add a transcript(s) to the application after it has been submitted.
If you answer this question based on education acquired outside of the United States, you must upload a copy of your foreign credential evaluation report. We can only accept foreign credential evaluations from organizations that are members of the National Association of Credential Services (NACES). A list of current NACES members can be found by visiting and clicking the Evaluation Services link.
You must attach your documentation prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add a document to the application after it has been submitted. A conferred bachelor's degree or higher
120 credits or more
90 but less than 120 credits
60 but less than 90 credits
30 but less than 60 credits
Less than 30 credits
None
08
How much full-time technical or paraprofessional level (or higher level) experience do you possess, in any field? 4 years or more
3 but less than 4 years
2 but less than 3 years
1 but less than 2 years
Less than 1 year
None
09
If you are claiming experience in the above question, please list the employer(s) where you gained this experience in the text box below. The employer(s) and a description of the experience must also be included in the appropriate sections of your application if you would like the experience to be considered in the eligibility decision. If you claimed you do not have experience, type N/A in the text box below.
10
You must complete the supplemental questions below. These supplemental questions are the exam and will be scored. They are designed to give you the opportunity to relate your experience and training background to the major activities (Work Behaviors) performed in this position. Failure to provide complete and accurate information may delay the processing of your application or result in a lower-than-deserved score or disqualification. You must complete the application and answer the supplemental questions. Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position or to determine your score.
All information you provide on your application and supplemental questions is subject to verification. Any misrepresentation, falsification or omission of material facts is subject to penalty. If requested, you must provide documentation, including names, addresses, and telephone numbers of individuals who can verify the validity of the information you provide in the application and supplemental questions.
Read each question carefully. Determine and select which "Level of Performance" most closely represents your highest level of experience/training. List the employer(s)/training source(s) from your Work or Education sections of the application where you gained this experience/training. The "Level of Performance" you choose must be clearly supported within the description of the experience and training information entered in your application or your score may be lowered. In order to receive credit for experience, you must have worked in a job for at least six months in which the experience claimed was a major function.
If you have read and understand these instructions, please click on the "Yes" button and proceed to the exam questions.
If you have general questions regarding the application and hiring process, please refer to our Yes
11
WORK BEHAVIOR 1 - COUNSELING
Provides counseling to individuals by utilizing casework principles and group or individual counseling methods to help individuals adjust to their situation. Assists individuals in resolving issues such as social, economic, and emotional problems, and utilizing their time appropriately. Provides advice to individuals on procedures for improving their situations and making the necessary changes.
Levels of Performance
Select the Level of Performance that best describes your claim. A. I have experience identifying individual/group issues. I was responsible for providing counseling or services on how to improve their situations.
B. I have experience identifying individual/group issues. I was responsible for referring individuals to services that provide assistance on how to improve their situations.
C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework or training related to individual counseling, group counseling, or criminology.
D. I have NO experience or education related to this work behavior.
12
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below. The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
The type of counseling you provided, methods used, and to whom the counseling was provided.
Your level of responsibility.
13
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below. College/University
Course Title
Credits/Clock Hours
14
WORK BEHAVIOR 2 - DEVELOPING PROGRAM PLANS
Develops program plans and assists in the implementation of individualized treatment plans. Coordinates objectives with other entities to effectively utilize human and material resources. Participates in program planning and makes recommendations regarding any changes to the program plan or individualized treatment plan.
Levels of Performance
Select the Level of Performance that best describes your claim. A. I have experience developing AND implementing program and treatment plans AND was responsible for providing feedback on the effectiveness of the prescribed plans.
B. I have experience implementing program and treatment plans AND providing feedback on the effectiveness of the prescribed plan. Someone else was responsible for developing the program and treatment plans.
C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework or training related to program planning, psychology, social work, or sociology.
D. I have NO experience or education related to this work behavior.
15
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below. The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
The program plans you developed and recommendations you made on changes to program plans.
Your level of responsibility.
16
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below. College/University
Course Title
Credits/Clock Hours
17
WORK BEHAVIOR 3 - COMPILING/MAINTAINING RECORDS
Compiles required information to develop records. Monitors and maintains records for each individual in accordance with established policies and procedures. Documents any information received and ensures that the information submitted is complete, accurate, and filed according to prescribed procedures.
Levels of Performance
Select the Level of Performance that best describes your claim. A. I have experience compiling the necessary information to develop case records. I was responsible for monitoring and updating the case records when changes occurred.
B. I have experience compiling the necessary information to develop case records. I was responsible for ensuring the information was complete, accurate, and filed accordingly; however, someone else was responsible for monitoring and updating the case records when changes occurred.
C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework or training related to records management, research methods, or data analysis.
D. I have NO experience or education related to this work behavior.
18
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below. The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
The type of information you compiled to develop records.
Your level of responsibility.
19
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below. College/University
Course Title
Credits/Clock Hours
20
WORK BEHAVIOR 4 - COMMUNICATION
Prepares official reports and correspondence such as recommendations, summaries, and rationales. Promotes community involvement and fosters cooperative relationships with the public regarding the understanding of available programs through personal contact with business and community leaders.
Levels of Performance
Select the Level of Performance that best describes your claim. A. I have experience preparing reports and correspondence. I was responsible for writing the documents and providing recommendations to the appropriate authority.
B. I have experience preparing reports and correspondence. I was responsible for writing the documents but someone else reviewed them and provided recommendations to the proper authority.
C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework or training related to report writing, English composition, communication, or public speaking.
D. I have NO experience or education related to this work behavior.
21
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below. The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience
The types of reports and correspondence you prepared.
Your level of responsibility.
22
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below. College/University
Course Title
Credits/Clock Hours
Required Question
Worksite address
harrisburg, PA, 17124, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.