Accreditation Specialist

Position: ACCREDITATION SPECIALIST

position number:
county: jackson
posting end date: 8/4/2025
anticipated starting salary: $39,171.00
location: mcpherson unit - newport

the mission of the department of corrections is to be a public safety resource for arkansas families by providing professional management solutions and evidence-based rehabilitative initiatives for offenders.

all doc positions are designated as safety sensitive positions and are subject to random drug testing pursuant to the secretarial directive governing personnel drug testing. Medical marijuana usage, as defined in amendment 93 of the arkansas constitution, prohibits personnel in a safety-sensitive position from the use of medical marijuana even if they are qualifying patient under the amendment and/or hold a registry identification card.

Department personnel are prohibited from the use or possession of a medicinal marijuana card pursuant to this policy and state law.

position information

job series: corrections programs - independent

classification: accreditation specialist

class code: scp
01i

pay grade: sgs
03

salary range: $39,171 - $57,973

job summary the accreditation specialist within the arkansas department of corrections is responsible for ensuring that the department and its facilities maintain compliance with national and state accreditation standards. This includes coordinating the accreditation process, managing documentation, conducting internal audits, and ensuring that policies and practices align with best practices in corrections. The accreditation specialist works closely with senior leadership to maintain or achieve accredited status, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

This position requires a high level of detail-oriented work, strong organizational skills, and an understanding of correctional facility operations and standards. Primary responsibilities leads and coordinates the accreditation process for the arkansas department of corrections and its facilities. This includes gathering and organizing documentation, ensuring that all necessary policies and procedures are in place, and submitting required reports for national and state accreditations.

Monitors ongoing compliance with accreditation standards set by national organizations, such as the american correctional association (aca), and ensures that all facilities meet or exceed the required criteria. Identifies areas for improvement and assists facilities in addressing deficiencies. Conducts regular internal audits and inspections of the department’s facilities to assess adherence to accreditation standards. Prepares audit reports and works with facility management to address non-compliance issues or potential areas for improvement.

Reviews, develops, and recommends policy revisions to ensure compliance with accreditation requirements. Collaborates with department leadership to implement any necessary changes to internal procedures and protocols. Provides training to staff at all levels on accreditation standards, compliance requirements, and internal audit procedures. Recommends improvements to internal systems and processes based on audit results and feedback from accreditation bodies. Serves as the primary liaison between the arkansas department of corrections and accrediting organizations, ensuring timely and effective communication.

Coordinates site visits and ensures that external reviewers have the necessary information and access to assess compliance. Knowledge and skills extensive knowledge of accreditation standards and processes, particularly those related to the correctional field (e.g., aca, state, and federal regulations). Knowledge of correctional facility operations, including security, inmate management, and rehabilitation programs. Familiarity with audit and compliance processes in a governmental or correctional setting.

Skilled in conducting audits, inspections, and assessments with an eye for detail and accuracy. Proficiency in using office software (e.g., microsoft office suite, excel) and specialized accreditation management tools. Ability to analyze complex information and apply accreditation standards to improve facility operations. Ability to develop and…