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Prison Psychologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are currently seeking a psychologist to join our team at Valdosta State Prison located in Valdosta, Georgia. The Psychologist provides psychological leadership, consultation and direct services ...

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We are currently seeking a full-time Psychologist to join our team at Indiana Women's Prison located in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Psychologist provides psychological leadership, consultation and ...

We are currently seeking a full-time Psychologist to join our team at Indiana State Prison located in Michigan City, Indiana. The Psychologist provides psychological leadership, consultation and ...

We are currently seeking a full-time Psychologist to join our team at Augusta State Medical Prison in Grovetown, Georgia. The Psychologist provides psychological leadership, consultation and direct ...

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Prison Psychologist information

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$11K

$92.8K

$398.5K

How much do prison psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for prison psychologist in the United States is $92,813.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $117,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a high demand for criminal psychologists?

Prison psychologists, a type of criminal psychologist, are in moderate to high demand due to the need for mental health services within correctional facilities. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as the criminal justice system emphasizes mental health assessment and treatment, requiring specialized training and licensure. Job prospects can vary based on location and facility size.

How do you become a correctional psychologist?

To become a correctional psychologist, you typically need a doctoral degree in psychology, such as a Ph.D. or Psy.D., along with supervised clinical experience. Licensure is required to practice independently, and additional training in forensic or correctional settings can be beneficial for working in correctional facilities.

What is the difference between Prison Psychologist vs Correctional Counselor?

AspectPrison PsychologistCorrectional Counselor
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree in psychology, state licensureBachelor's or master's degree in counseling or social work, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentPrisons, detention centers, forensic settingsPrisons, community correction facilities, rehabilitation centers
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, forensic institutionsCorrectional facilities, community organizations
Common Search & ComparisonFocus on mental health diagnosis and treatment in prisonsFocus on counseling, rehabilitation, and behavioral management in correctional settings

Prison Psychologists and Correctional Counselors both work within correctional environments, but Prison Psychologists typically hold doctoral degrees and provide mental health assessments and therapy, while Correctional Counselors usually have a bachelor's or master's degree and focus on counseling and behavioral support. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by prison psychologists in their daily work?

Prison psychologists often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, working with individuals who may be resistant to treatment, and addressing a wide range of mental health issues within a confined environment. They must balance the therapeutic needs of inmates with safety protocols and security measures unique to correctional settings. Additionally, prison psychologists frequently collaborate with correctional officers, medical staff, and administrative personnel to ensure comprehensive care, making strong communication and adaptability essential for success in this role.

What does a prison psychologist do?

A prison psychologist is a mental health professional who works within correctional facilities to assess, diagnose, and treat inmates with psychological issues. They provide counseling, therapy, crisis intervention, and mental health evaluations to help inmates manage mental illnesses, stress, and behavioral problems. Prison psychologists also work with correctional staff to create rehabilitation programs, assess inmates’ risk of reoffending, and support overall prison safety and inmate well-being.

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

To thrive as a Prison Psychologist, you need an advanced degree in psychology (typically a PhD or PsyD), state licensure, and expertise in clinical assessment and forensic psychology. Familiarity with risk assessment tools, psychological testing instruments, and correctional records systems is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, resilience, and the ability to build rapport with diverse and sometimes challenging populations set outstanding professionals apart. These skills are critical for providing effective mental health care, supporting rehabilitation, and maintaining safety within correctional environments.

Can you work in a prison with a psychology degree?

Prison psychologists typically need a master's or doctoral degree in psychology, along with state licensure or certification. They work in correctional facilities providing mental health assessments, therapy, and crisis intervention, often requiring knowledge of forensic psychology and security protocols.

What kind of psychologist works in prisons?

A prison psychologist is a mental health professional who works within correctional facilities to assess, diagnose, and treat inmates. They often use psychological testing, counseling, and crisis intervention, and typically require licensure and specialized training in forensic psychology or correctional mental health. Their work environment demands strong boundaries, confidentiality, and knowledge of criminal justice procedures.
More about Prison Psychologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Prison Psychologist jobs? Cities with the most Prison Psychologist job openings:
What states have the most Prison Psychologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Prison Psychologist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Prison Psychologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,813 per year, or $44.6 per hour.
Additional/Dual Appointment - Psychologist - Clinical, CF, Pelican Bay State Prison (PBSP)

Additional/Dual Appointment - Psychologist - Clinical, CF, Pelican Bay State Prison (PBSP)

California Correctional Health Care Services

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$66.32 - $80.41/hr

Full-time, Part-time

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Job description

Psychologist, Correctional Facility
$66.32 - $80.41 hourly rate
This is a limited term position which may be extended.
This Job Control is listed Until Filled. Applications will be reviewed on the following dates:
2/13/26, 2/27/26, 3/13/26, 3/27/26, 4/10/26, 4/24/26, 05/08/26, 5/29/26, 6/12/26, 6/26/26, 7/10/26, 7/24/26, 8/7/26, 8/21/26, 9/4/26, 9/18/26, 10/2/26, 10/16/26, 10/30/26, 11/13/26, 11/27/26, 12/11/26
California Correctional Health Care Services (CCHCS) is seeking Psychologists currently employed with the state of California who are interested in additional appointments to provide coverage in a part-time capacity, up to 40 hours per month. These uncommon positions are available to all Pyschologists currently employed by the State of California. Due to the nature of these dual appointments, the only stipulation is that the additional appointment must be a distinctly different role than your primary job, and you cannot be a supervisor, manager, or executive. Onsite dual appointments at your primary institution may be available.
Additional Information:
  • Time worked is not considered overtime.
  • Time worked will be outside your normal hours.
  • The dates and hours of work will be determined by the hiring location.

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • PSYCHOLOGIST - CLINICAL, CORRECTIONAL FACILITY
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-474981
Position #(s):
394-220-9283-XXX
Working Title:
Additional/Dual Appointment - Psychologist - Clinical, CF, Pelican Bay State Prison (PBSP)
Classification:
PSYCHOLOGIST - CLINICAL, CORRECTIONAL FACILITY $66.32 - $80.41
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Del Norte County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
12 Month Limited Term, Intermittent - 480 Hours
Facility:
Pelican Bay State Prison
Department Information
Vision
We enhance public safety and promote successful community reintegration through education, treatment and active participation in rehabilitative and restorative justice programs.
Mission
To facilitate the successful reintegration of the individuals in our care back to their communities equipped with the tools to be drug-free, healthy, and employable members of society by providing education, treatment, rehabilitative, and restorative justice programs, all in a safe and humane environment.
CDCR and CCHCS are committed to transforming the correctional landscape to create safer, more professional, and more fulfilling environments for our employees, the incarcerated population, and those supervised in our communities. Through systemwide improvements grounded in proven and emerging practices, we aim to strengthen rehabilitation, enhance workplace satisfaction, and support successful reentry into the community through our institutions, parole, and community partnerships. Our shared mission is to promote safety, wellness, and human dignity while fostering positive change for all those who live and work within our institutions and communities
CDCR and CCHCS are committed to building an inclusive respectful workplace. We are determined to attract and hire candidates from all communities and empower employees from a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and personal experiences. We are proud to foster inclusion and drive collaborative efforts at all levels of the Department.
Across our organization, our programs work cooperatively to provide the highest level of health care possible to a diverse correctional population. We encourage creativity and ingenuity while treating others fairly, honestly, and with respect, all of which are critical to the success of the CDCR and CCHCS mission.
This advertisement is for a Psychologist, CF Dual Appointment position(s) located at Pelican Bay State Prison (PBSP) in Crescent City, CA located in Del Norte C ounty . Please indicate the position number on your application: 394 -220-9283-XXX.
Note: Main communication for this position will be through email. Please ensure you have a valid email address on your application.
Department Website: https://cchcs.ca.gov/careers
Special Requirements
Please do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for a job vacancy, such as your State application, resume, or educational transcripts. Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, student identification number, driver's license number (unless required), basis of eligibility, examination results, LEAP status, marital status, and age. Confidential information on the first page of applications submitted electronically online, such as Easy ID number, SSN, examination related information, and driver's license number will automatically be redacted upon submission.
Possession of Minimum Qualifications (MQ) will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting MQ's with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment. If it is determined that an applicant does not meet the MQ's, the candidate will be withheld from the eligibility list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates who have been withheld may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board.
Applicants who completed their education outside of the US (with foreign degrees/transcripts) must obtain and submit verification of U.S. course/degree equivalency. Foreign education credential evaluation services can be found at NACES | National Association of Credential Evaluation Services .
Candidates new to CCHCS are required to submit to a background investigation process utilizing Live Scan Fingerprinting.
Tuberculosis (TB) testing is required for candidates new to CCHCS prior to appointment followed by department annual TB testing/evaluation thereafter.
If using academic education above the twelfth grade to meet minimum qualifications, include a copy of your degree and/or Informal (Unofficial) School Transcripts.
When submitting supporting documents, PDF file format is preferred.
CCHCS utilizes E-Verify to confirm candidate's identity and employment authorization. For more information about E-Verify, you may go to www.e-verify.gov .
This advertisement may be used for other vacancies that occur during the life of this recruitment.
Employment History on the STD. 678 must be complete and include dates, accurate hours per week, total time worked, duties and responsibilities, and contact names and phone numbers of supervisors. To prepare for the State Application process, please visit Work4CA: State Application Checklist .
Application Instructions
Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: Until Filled
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
California Correctional Health Care Services
Regional Human Resources-Southern
Attn: Regional Hiring Unit - PBSP 9283 Dual Appointment
Regional Human Resources - Southern
P.O. Box 81857
Bakersfield , CA 93380
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
California Correctional Health Care Services
Pelican Bay State Prison
Liliya Wanner
Pelican Bay State Prison - CCHCS - Delegated Testing Office
P.O. Box 7200
Crescent City , CA 95531
Regional Hiring Unit - PBSP 9283 Dual Appointment
07:30 AM - 04:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
  • Other - License : Possession of a valid license as a Psychologist issued by the California Board of Psychology and possession of an earned Doctorate Degree in Psychology from an educational institution meeting the criteria of Section 2914 of the Medical Board of California's Business and Professions Code. Individuals who do not qualify for licensure by the California Board of Psychology or who are in the process of securing this license will be admitted into the examination and may be appointed but must secure a valid license within three years of an appointment or the employment shall be terminated.
  • Other -
    Education : If using academic education above the twelfth grade to meet minimum qualifications, include a copy of your Degree and/or Informal (Unofficial) School Transcripts.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
Willingness to promote an inclusive workplace that empowers employees from a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and personal experiences.
Benefits
Benefit information can be found on the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) website, www.benefits.calhr.ca.gov/ , and the CalPERS website, www.calpers.ca.gov .
Information on benefits afforded by membership in the California Public Employees' Retirement System can be found on the CalHR Salary and Benefits website at www.benefits.calhr.ca.gov/state-employees/retirement/ .
Information on the benefits and protections provided to public employees by the State Civil Service Act can be found on the CalHR website at Merit System Principles - An Overview - CalHR Website .
This webpage is intended to provide general information. Benefit eligibility may be based on job classification, bargaining unit, time base and length of appointment.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website: https://cchcs.ca.gov/careers
Human Resources Contact:
Serena West
(000) -
serena.west@cdcr.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
CCHCS EEO Office
(000) -
CCHCS_EEO@cdcr.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Additional Information:
PRIORITY CONSIDERATION WILL BE GIVEN TO RE-EMPLOYMENT, DEPARTMENTAL RESTRICTION OF APPOINTMENT, STATE RESTRICTION OF APPOINTMENT, AND SURPLUS CANDIDATES.
All methods of appointment may be considered.
State Application Checklist: To prepare for the State application process, please visit Work4CA: State Application Checklist .
Interview Checklist: To prepare for the interview process, please refer to the Work4CA: Interview Checklist .
CCHCS accepts electronic applications. If interested, please submit an electronic application (STD 678) through your CalCareer account at www.calcareers.ca.gov/ . Your application must be submitted on or before the above Final Filing Date.
Paper App (If unable to submit an electronic application): To apply for this position, you may submit a Standard State Application (STD 678) along with copies of your most recent performance report, college transcripts/college diploma (if applicable) and license/certif

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