Correctional Counselor; Pendleton

Overview

Oregon Department of Corrections is seeking an experienced professional case manager for the Correctional Counselor (Pendleton) position at Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution in Pendleton, Oregon. This opportunity is with the Correctional Services Division of the DOC.

Your primary duties are to set the stage for rehabilitation and elicit motivation for change in each Adult in Custody (AIC) from the beginning of their incarceration. Responsibilities include conducting daily interviews and intake assessments on a one-on-one basis for all AICs, including assessments, risk/needs evaluations, and file reviews to determine custody classification and gate clearance, which influence population management decisions.

You will provide intensive and intermediate case management for AICs based on risk of recidivism and special needs, ensuring resources are focused on AIC success by identifying needs, applying interventions, and managing AICs at the appropriate level. Basic services may be provided to low-risk AICs to ensure a broad range of support across all risk levels.

As a core correctional resource for case management, you will be part of a multi-disciplinary team within the institution, fostering rapport across program disciplines and contributing to a holistic, systems-based model for working with each AIC. Your work supports rehabilitation, institutional safety, and reintegration goals, with a focus on reducing recidivism.

This position is represented by the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). This position may be eligible for Police & Fire (P&F) benefits through Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), as defined by statute.

• Salary: $6,727 - $8,917 (note: COLA of 2.5% effective Feb. 1, 2026; salary listed may not reflect the COLA)
• General benefits: family health, vision, and dental insurance; vacation, sick leave, and holidays; retirement program; flexible spending accounts; and more

Your application materials will be reviewed to verify that you have:

• Bachelor's degree in a behavioral science, criminal justice or related field with major coursework in behavioral science; AND two (2) years of professional counseling experience in a social service or rehabilitative program; OR
• Three (3) years of experience in a social service, rehabilitative, or correctional program with primary responsibility for guiding and/or counseling individuals or groups, AND two (2) years of professional counseling experience in a social service or rehabilitative program; OR
• Master's degree in a behavioral science or criminal justice AND one (1) year of professional counseling experience in a social service or rehabilitative program.

Experience in any security series position does not substitute for the minimum qualifications. Professional counseling experience must include one-to-one supportive counseling with full responsibility for developing and managing each case plan.

• Strong verbal and written communication to interact with AICs, legal representatives, families, and community organizations
• Ability to manage multiple cases, meet deadlines, and adapt to fast-paced, short-term casework
• Commitment to ethics and confidentiality
• Strong personal boundaries and willingness to learn from others
• Belief in the potential for positive change; respectful treatment of others
• Team player with the ability to form collaborative partnerships with diverse stakeholders
• Adaptable, flexible, and solution-oriented
• Proficiency in documentation and electronic case management systems

• Preferred: LEDS certification

• Include dates and duties of all relevant positions in Work Experience; education and work experience must meet minimum qualifications to be considered. Only candidates whose experience closely matches requested qualifications will be invited to interview. Meet minimum qualifications on or before posting close date.
• Job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date. Respond to public records requests and veterans’ preference questions after submittal. Monitor email and Workday for updates. You may be asked to complete a skills assessment or writing sample.
• May require additional assessment stages; successful completion is expected for advancement.
• Save a copy of this job announcement for reference; it is not available after the deadline.

All institutions are tobacco-free. Work occurs in prisons housing various security levels. AICs may be angry or aggressive; recall and/or reassignment may be required during unrest or emergencies. Conditions include exposure to temperature extremes and outdoor duties in inclement weather. Access to computers for email and case management is required. Travel may be occasional and in-state/out-of-state. Professional, respectful behavior toward co-workers, AICs, and the public is mandatory.

Custodial duties include key control and documentation of incidents;…