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Prison Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GED Instructor- Bilingual

Scranton, PA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Scranton, PA (7th Avenue Center and Lackawanna County Prison) Reports T o: GED Team Lead Outreach ... Summary The Instructor - GED delivers classroom instruction and academic support to participants in ...

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How much do prison instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for prison instructor in the United States is $21.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prison instructor?

Prison Instructors are professionals who provide educational, vocational, or rehabilitative training to inmates within correctional facilities. Their goal is to help prisoners develop new skills, gain knowledge, and improve their chances of successful reintegration into society after release. Prison Instructors may teach academic subjects, trades, or life skills, and often work closely with correctional staff to maintain a safe learning environment. Their role is crucial in reducing recidivism and supporting inmates’ personal development.

What is the difference between Prison Instructor vs Correctional Officer?

AspectPrison InstructorCorrectional Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; some roles may require teaching certifications or specialized trainingHigh school diploma or GED; basic correctional training required
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, training facilities, or educational settings within correctional institutionsPrison facilities, security posts, and inmate housing areas
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and correctional institutions focusing on inmate rehabilitation and educationCorrectional facilities responsible for inmate supervision and security

Prison Instructors primarily focus on inmate education and rehabilitation within correctional facilities, often working in classrooms or training environments. Correctional Officers, on the other hand, are responsible for maintaining security, supervising inmates, and enforcing rules within prisons. While both roles operate within correctional settings, their core duties and required credentials differ, making them distinct but related careers in the criminal justice industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prison instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Prison Instructor, you need a solid background in education or vocational training, often supported by a teaching credential or relevant certification. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), curriculum development tools, and basic security protocols is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and cultural sensitivity help build trust and effectively engage learners in a correctional environment. These competencies are crucial for delivering impactful instruction, maintaining safety, and supporting rehabilitation and reintegration efforts.

What are some common challenges faced by prison instructors, and how can they be managed effectively?

Prison Instructors often encounter challenges such as engaging learners with diverse backgrounds, addressing varying literacy levels, and managing classroom behavior in a secure environment. Building strong rapport, adapting teaching methods to individual needs, and collaborating closely with correctional staff are essential strategies for success. Additionally, maintaining flexibility and resilience helps instructors navigate institutional policies and unexpected disruptions while ensuring a supportive learning atmosphere for inmates.
More about Prison Instructor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Prison Instructor jobs? The most popular types of Prison Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most Prison Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Prison Instructor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Prison Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,102 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

GED Instructor- Bilingual

Outreach Works

Scranton, PA • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

GED Bilingual Instructor (English/Spanish)


Job Type: Full-time | 37.5 hours/week

Hours: 37.5 hours per week. Evening or weekend work may be required based on program needs.

FLSA Status: Full-time, Non-exempt

Location: Scranton, PA (7th Avenue Center and Lackawanna County Prison)

Reports To: GED Team Lead

Outreach Culture

Outreach's mission statement states, "With respect for the individual and with the highest professional standards, Outreach – Center for Community Resources offers a variety of programs that promote family stability and economic self-sufficiency." We strive to embody this mission in our employment as well. At Outreach, you will find an environment where you are family, and family comes first.



Outreach Benefits

We proudly offer the following benefits to eligible employees:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability
  • Life insurance
  • Generous paid time off (PTO)
  • 401k plan
  • Personal and bereavement leave time
  • Flexible work arrangements


Outreach's Mission and Values

Staff at Outreach are expected to adhere to and embrace Outreach's mission and values. Our mission, as stated above, is to promote family stability and economic self-sufficiency for our participants.

Our Values drive how we approach our mission. These include:

  • Respect for the individual
  • Upholding the highest professional standards
  • Belief that Relationships, Connections, and Belonging matter
  • Providing hope for the future

As an Outreach Team Member, we expect that all staff have the shared responsibility to tell our story and share our impact with key stakeholders (funders, board members, volunteers, governing bodies, community partners) – always connecting the programs we deliver with the outcomes and impact we report.


Summary

The Instructor – GED delivers classroom instruction and academic support to participants in Outreach's GED program, including individuals transitioning from prison-based GED instruction. Teaching takes place at the 7th Avenue Center and Lackawanna County Prison. In addition to direct instruction in Language Arts/English, Math, Science, and History, this position conducts participant assessments, monitors progress, provides individual coaching, and coordinates wraparound services. The instructor also assists with programming and supports broader program operations, including data entry, documentation, and community coordination.


Duties

Classroom Instruction and Academic Support

  • Teaches GED classes at the 7th Avenue Center and/or Lackawanna County Prison in Language Arts/English, Math, Science, and/or History; prepares course outlines and delivers classroom presentations.
  • Delivers instruction in both English and Spanish; the ability to teach and communicate course content in both languages is essential. GED instruction across four core subject areas: Language Arts/English, Math, Science, and History; tailors teaching methods to participant learning styles and readiness levels
  • Assesses participants upon intake; develops individualized learning plans; coaches, advises, and monitors participant progress toward GED completion.
  • Initiates and follows up on all internal, external, and self-referrals; completes necessary intake documentation and coordinates with other departments or outside agencies as needed.
  • Maintains regular case contact documentation reflecting participant progress, barriers, and next steps.

Program Operations and Data Management

  • Keeps accurate records and organized file systems; maintains confidentiality in accordance with Outreach policies.
  • Performs data entry into tracking sheets and agency databases; responsible for collection and compilation of program data.
  • Prepares general correspondence, training materials, certificates, and other program materials using MS Office software.
  • Assists with grant processes by reviewing documents for accuracy, providing data or input when appropriate, and attending meetings upon request.
  • Maintains photocopying, supply orders, and general office operations as needed.
  • Participates in community and agency-wide meetings and teams.

Professional and Operational Requirements

  • Works within the guidelines established by Outreach and Lackawanna County Prison.
  • Daily in-person attendance is mandatory.
  • Local travel for off-site class instruction, training purposes, and occasional regional travel may be required.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.


Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree and/or two to four years of related experience and training, or equivalent combination thereof. Helpful background includes teaching experience in human services, math, and general studies; work with justice-involved populations and individuals transitioning from incarceration; and familiarity with the court system. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish, including reading, writing and instruction in both languages, is required.



Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations

Must have or meet the requirements to obtain current ACT 33 (Child Abuse) and ACT 34 (Criminal Background) clearances, Lackawanna County Prison Background check, and be able to obtain additional clearances as required. Valid driver's license required. Must annually complete all training hours required by Outreach, PREA training through Lackawanna County Prison, and/or applicable accreditations.


Computer Skills

General computer literacy required. Must have working knowledge of agency databases, MS Office software, and Internet software. Proficient in data entry and able to type 40 wpm. Strong computer aptitude required.


Work Environment

Work is performed in classroom and office settings at the 7th Avenue Center and Lackawanna County Prison. The role requires regular interaction with participants of varying educational backgrounds and justice-involved individuals. The noise level is usually moderate. Travel in a high-crime and low-income area is often necessary. Ability to work effectively within a prison environment is required. Position is based in Lackawanna County; accessible from Wilkes Barre, Hazleton, Bloomsburg, and Stroudsburg.


Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, and sit. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, including transporting supplies and materials.

**Outreach is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.