Position Overview

The Re-Entry Counselor will be a vital member of the facility team who will coordinate and assist in preparing individuals for a successful transition to the community. This position oversees re-entry programs and initiatives at the facility, which includes managing the re-entry resource rooms, linkage to community organizations and state agencies (DHS, SOS, DCFS) for additional services to include enrollment in benefits. This position also coordinates the facility reentry summits, workforce development efforts and related reentry efforts. This position
will provide an opportunity for someone that is passionate about working with people to reduce barriers and provide access to services.

Job Responsibilities

1. Coordinates reentry programming for individuals in custody.

2. Coordinates the facility reentry summits, facilitates Reentry Prep Program, and assists with workforce development efforts.

3. Serves as the liaison for the Department of Children and Family Services, Veteran’s Services (federal and state), and the Social Security Administration.

4. Serves as back up to the other Correctional Counselor III’s in the Clinical Services Unit during times of absence.

5. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

Minimum Qualifications

1. Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to completion of four (4) years of college with a Bachelor’s degree in behavioral or social sciences.

2. Requires two (2) years of progressively responsible professional experience in corrections, behavioral, social sciences, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications (In Order of Significance)

1. Prefers at least three years (3) years of professional experience providing linkage to community organizations and/or state agencies.

2. Prefers at least three (3) years of professional experience helping individuals to transition into the community from a correctional setting.

3. Prefers at least three (3) years of experience working with individuals on reducing barriers for employment.

4. Prefers at least two (2) years of working with individuals impacted by the criminal justice system.

5. Prefers at least two (2) years of experience in case management.

6. Prefers at least one (1) year of professional experience participating as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Conditions of Employment

1. Requires written and spoken knowledge of the English language.

2. Requires the ability to pass the IDOC/IDJJ background check.

3. Requires the ability to pass a drug screen. On January 1, 2020, the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act made it legal for residents over the age of 21 to produce, consume and sell cannabis in Illinois. Please note that although the law has changed, the Department will continue to enforce the Department’s zero tolerance Drug Testing policy. The use of unauthorized drugs, including cannabis, by an employee, regardless of the position held is prohibited.

4. Applicants are required to abide by all vaccine and/or other medical standards as set out by the employer.

About the Agency

The Illinois Department of Corrections is a multicultural agency deeply committed to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion. This commitment is at the forefront of our operations, hiring, policies and procedures, and training. We recognize the benefit of workplace empowerment, the importance of diversity and fully support an environment where ALL employees are treated fairly, respectfully, and have equal access to opportunities and resources necessary to thrive and contribute to the agency’s success. IDOC genuinely values the differences of
individuals in our custody and is committed to ensuring a healthy living environment where they feel valued, respected, and included.

Through our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), we shall establish and uphold agency policies and practices conducive to eliminating all forms of exclusion including, but not limited to, racism, ageism, ableism, sexism, discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender, and religious oppression.

The IDOC team works to serve justice in Illinois and increase public safety by promoting positive change in behavior of individuals in custody, operating successful reentry programs, and reducing victimization.

Employees enjoy excellent benefits, including health, vision, and dental insurance; retirement plan and deferred compensation; state holidays and other benefit time off; and pre-tax benefit programs. The department also offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities.

The Illinois Department of Corrections is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.