What is a Probation Officer

Probation Officers supervise people who have been placed on probation instead of sent to prison. Ensure probationers are not a danger to the community and help in their rehabilitation. Write reports detailing treatment plan and progress of probationer. Probation officers supervise probationers through personal contact with them and their families via regularly scheduling calls or visits. They also check on them at their homes or places of work. Probation officers note mental health considerations and oversee drug testing and electronic monitoring of those under supervision.

Learn about the Cuyahoga County Probation Department

Basic Duties

• Interview probationers and parolees, their friends, and their relatives in an office or at a residence to assess progress.
• Evaluate probationers and 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.
• Valid driver’s license.
• No past felony convictions.
• Ability to carry and use firearms.
• Pass a certification test.
• 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. Some officers are trained in a specialist focus such as domestic violence, substance abuse or juvenile offenders.

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: $64,520 per year or $31.02 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.