Probation Officer

Job Description

Probation officers are responsible for supervising offenders who have been sentenced to probation instead of prison. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, probation officers spend the majority of their time investigating and evaluating the client’s background and progression, in order to give judges essential information. They do so by supervising offenders through personal contact and visits to their home, work place or therapy sessions. Probation officers check on the offenders’ progress and make sure that they are staying out of trouble. Depending on the offender’s crime, officers may make them take routine drug tests, or wear electronic tracking devices that monitor their movements and location at all times. If clients are noncompliant, probation officers will have to report to the courts to disclose information and recommend sentences. Before the offender is sentenced, probation officers review sentencing recommendations with them and their families before submitting anything to the court. In addition, officers may be called upon to testify in court and disclose their findings and recommendations. In most jurisdictions, probation officers work in counties, within state or local governments. Probation officers tend to work with either adults or juveniles exclusively.

Educational Requirements

The educational requirements of a probation officer typically include a bachelor’s degree in social work, criminal justice, psychology or a related field. Also, a master’s degree in one of these majors is recommended for those who do not have previous experience in law enforcement, and want to achieve a higher role in the field. For those looking to gain related work experience, can work in pretrial services, parole, corrections, substance abuse treatment or social work to get a comprehensive understanding of the field. Prospective probation officers can expect to take oral, written and psychological examinations before entering the position. In addition, many probation officers will be required to complete a training program sponsored by their state government or the federal government. Once this is complete, they will likely be required to take a certification test, as well as work as trainees or serve a one-year probationary period before they are offered a permanent position.

Career Outlook and Salary

The career outlook for probation officers should remain favorable, as the employment rate is expected to grow about 19 percent between 2008 and 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job opportunities should be excellent, specifically for those who have meet the educational and experience requirements. A push for alternative punishments or correctional treatment, like probation and rehabilitation, has increased the need for probation officers in many states. Job prospects will be better in urban areas than rural ones. In addition to a positive career outlook, probation officers will receive satisfactory earnings. According to the Bureau, probation officers made a median annual wage of $45,910 in 2008. In that same year, those who were employed in state government and worked in urban areas made more than those who were employed in local government and worked in rural areas. For additional information on probation officers, as well as career opportunities and additional resources, visit the American Probation and Parole Association.