What is a Parole Officer

Parole officers work with people who have been released from prison on parole, helping them re-enter society. Parole officers monitor post-release parolees and provide them with information on various resources, such as substance abuse counseling or job training, to aid in their rehabilitation. By doing so, the officers try to change the parolee’s behavior and thus reduce their risk of committing another crime and having to return to prison.

Parole officers supervise parolees through personal contact with them and their families by regularly scheduling calls or visits. They also check on them at their homes or places of work. Parole officers note mental health considerations and oversee drug testing and electronic monitoring of those under supervision. 

Learn about the Ohio Adult Parole Authority (APA)

Basic Duties

• Interview parolees, their friends, and their relatives in an office or at a residence to assess progress.
• Evaluate parolees to determine the best course of rehabilitation.
• Connect probationers and parolees with resources, such as job training.
• Test clients for drugs and, if necessary, offer substance abuse counseling.
• Complete prehearing investigations and testify in court or before parole boards regarding clients’ backgrounds and progress.
• Write reports and maintain case files on clients.
• Most work exclusively with either adults or juveniles.

Hiring Roadmap

Typical Entry-Level Requirements

• A bachelor's degree or an associate's degree plus two years of work experience.
• Valid driver’s license.
• No past felony convictions.
• Ability to carry and use firearms.
• Pass the civil service exam for parole officers.
• Additional interviews and evaluations may occur such as physical agility test, medical evaluation, criminal history/background check, and psychological evaluation.

Training

Complete a training program sponsored by their state or local government, and pass a certification test.

Advancement

Supervisory positions are based primarily on experience and performance. A master’s degree in criminal justice, social work, or psychology may be helpful for advancing.

Average Pay & Benefits

National median average per US Bureau of Labor Statistics: $61,800 per year or $30.90 per hour.

Benefits will vary by department but often include medical, dental, vision, paid time off, holiday pay, overtime pay, and retirement/pension plan.

Work Environment

Frequent travel, either to perform home and employment checks or property searches or to attend court hearings. Work in high-crime areas or in institutions. May be on call and must respond to any issues with probationers or law enforcement 24 hours a day.