Prison Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LIBRARY ASSISTANT

MONTANA WOMENS PRISON

BILLINGS, 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 Education Department provides essential academic and vocational programs designed to equip incarcerated individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to lead fulfilling lives after incarceration. Our education staff members support personal growth and prepare students for meaningful opportunities after release, providing basic literacy education, high school equivalency completion, and career-focused training. Join a team dedicated to unlocking potential and creating pathways for brighter futures!

The Library Assistant is responsible for supporting the Montana State Prison by delivering essential library services within a securecare environment, overseeing inmates and ensuring smooth daily operations across the main library and multiple satellite locations. This role keeps the library running efficiently by maintaining circulation and inventory records, updating patron accounts, cataloging and processing materials, shelving resources, and helping individuals find and use both print and digital tools. The Library Assistant also manages interlibrary loan requests, conducts reference searches, and assists with a variety of daytoday tasks such as copying and equipment upkeep, all contributing to an organized, engaging, and educational library space that supports structure, learning, and personal growth within the facility.

This role also supports the Religious Activities Program at Montana Women's Prison, working with the RAC Coordinator to facilitate diverse religious programs, coordinate volunteers, schedule pastoral care, prepare for services, maintain records, and manage activity schedules. The position contributes to fulfilling the RAC mission of protecting constitutional rights, meeting institutional goals, and supporting genuine spiritual development.

The hourly rate of this position will increase by $1.00 per hour or 2.5%, whichever is greater, effective July 1, 2026, in accordance with HB13.

QUALIFICATIONS

The knowledge, skills and abilities for this position are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to:

• High School Diploma
   

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.