Counselor Penal Institute

Definition:

 

Under the guidance of the Supervising Counselor, Penal Institution and Inmate Services Lieutenant, the main responsibilities involve the development, implementation, and upkeep of a reporting system compliant with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA). This role acts as a point of contact for all matters related to PREA, ensuring compliance with federal and state laws, and keeping abreast of all pertinent standards, policies, and procedures. Additional responsibilities include conducting interviews and providing counseling to inmates, making referrals to other agencies, and collaborating with these agencies to facilitate the reintegration of inmates into society; performs other duties as required. The standard work schedule is Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., or as determined by the Supervisor.

Duties and Responsibilities:
 

• Develop and maintain a database to track and archive PREA documentation, reports, and statistics.
• Review, examine, and audit departmental records and data for PREA mandate compliance.
• Ensure adherence to PREA standards and policies concerning sexual abuse and harassment.
• Educate and train inmates on the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA).
• Collaborate with designated staff on policy review, revisions, and protocol processes.
• Communicate regularly with custody staff about PREA incidents, procedures, compliance vulnerabilities, needs, training, and statistics, providing advice and receiving guidance to improve the program.
• Work with various entities to ensure PREA compliance, offering guidance, assistance, and monitoring for effective cooperation.
• Maintain assigned caseload, providing all relevant assistance as per assignment, policies, and procedures.
• Maintains effective communication with departments and agencies; refers inmates to other departments and agencies for further consultation when appropriate.
• Interview inmates to determine their needs and qualifications for counseling.
• Offer personal counseling and advice to individual inmates to aid in their release preparation and personal issue resolution.
• Assist with discharge planning.
• Coordinate with others to place inmates in suitable educational programs and courses.
• Consult with probation, police departments, prosecutor's offices, and other agencies to coordinate rehabilitation efforts, providing necessary information and verifications.
• Maintain essential records and files efficiently, meet deadlines, and prepare required reports.
• Report any psychological or social issues to the appropriate supervisor.
• Show proficiency in interviewing and counseling techniques.
• According to the institution's policies and procedures, aids inmates in contacting their families by assisting them with phone calls and letter writing.
• Provides notary services, as appropriate.
• Assist Substance Abuse Services in the placement of court approved inmates in residential and alcohol treatment, per policy and procedure.
• Help maintain the cleanliness and orderliness of the work area.

Five years of professional experience in counseling and guidance in the fields of social welfare, education, job placement, crisis intervention or substance abuse or possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; and one (1) year of the above mentioned professional experienceFor more info please visit:  https://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/01387.htm

Please note all Monmouth County positions are on site.  There are no provisions to work remotely.

Salary : $35,300 - $80,000