Job Description - Program Specialist 2 (26141867)
Position Title:
Program Specialist 2 - (26141867)
PROGRAM SPECIALIST
CENTRAL OFFICE
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!
The Rehabilitative and Enterprise Division ensures the physical and mental well-being of inmates, delivers educational and vocational opportunities with prisons, and oversees community facilities dedicated to successfully reintegrating offenders into Montana communities. This division also delivers trauma-informed support to victims of offenders in the correctional system. Join the team responsible for building better tomorrows today!
The Program Specialist is responsible for conducting research, data analysis, and program evaluation related to tablet‑based services, inmate communication technologies, and digital learning platforms within the correctional environment. This position supports evidence‑based decision‑making by providing accurate data, reporting, and recommendations that enhance operational effectiveness, security, and rehabilitative programming.
Conduct research and perform detailed analysis of inmate tablet usage, digital communications services, and electronic learning programs.
Evaluate program effectiveness using data metrics, utilization trends, cost analysis, and stakeholder feedback.
Identify gaps in service delivery, operational risks, and opportunities for improvement.
Prepare comprehensive reports to support decision‑making, legislative inquiries, and departmental planning.
Work with facility administrators, program managers, technology vendors, educational partners, and community organizations to identify program needs and ensure services align with departmental goals.
Coordinate with internal security, IT, and operations staff to maintain compliance with safety protocols and technology standards. Provide recommendations to enhance digital learning delivery,
inmate communication tools, and tablet‑based services.
Assist in developing, updating, and implementing program improvements, pilot initiatives, or service expansions.
Review and propose updates to program specifications and service contracts based on research findings and operational needs.
QUALIFICATIONS
The knowledge, skills and abilities for this position are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to:
Bachelor's degree in business, social services, public administration or similar field.
Two years relevant experience
Alternative combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
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.
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
Child/patient/offender abuse registries
Reference checks
The Department of Corrections participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, https://www.e-verify.gov/.
NOTICES
Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) - 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.
Applicant Pool Statement: If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection. Training Assignment: This agency may use a training assignment. Employees in training assignments may be paid below the base pay established by the agency pay rules. Conditions of the training assignment will be stated in writing at the time of hire.
Salary: $
34.30 - 34.30 Hourly
Telework Eligibility: Telework Eligible (Full-time telework is not available. Telework schedule must be supervisor approved.) Benefits Package Eligibility: Health Insurance, Paid Leave & Holidays, Retirement Plan
Number of Openings
: 1 Employee Status: Regular Schedule: Full-Time
Job Type
: Standard
Shift
: Day Job
Travel
: Yes, 5 % of the Time
Primary Location
: Helena
Agency: Department of Corrections Union: 000 - None
Posting Date
: Jul 21, 2026, 10:26:14 PM
Closing Date (based on your computer''s timezone)
: Aug 5, 2026, 11:29:00 AM
Required Application Materials: Cover Letter, Resume
Contact Name: Paula Plattner | Contact Email: paula.plattner@mt.gov | Contact Phone: 406-415-6203 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.