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Probation Officer Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Edited by Indeed Employer Content Team
Last updated November 6, 2025
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8 min read

A Probation Officer, or Community Supervision Officer, works with individuals who’ve been sentenced to probation to ensure they follow the terms of their sentencing. Their duties include checking in regularly with individuals on probation, using various monitoring techniques and serving as intermediaries between offenders and judges.

Probation Officer duties and responsibilities

Probation Officer careers involve a variety of duties and responsibilities that vary by offender. Their primary job is to uphold the sentencing terms of the individual on probation with regular Probation Officer job duties including:

  • Providing recommendations for each offender based on their situation
  • Developing treatment and rehabilitation plans
  • Meeting with the individual on probation regularly to check for progress and ensure they’re following the terms of their probation
  • Notifying the courts of probation violations
  • Using various techniques, including drug and alcohol tests, monitoring software and GPS monitoring to track individuals on probation
  • Documenting all progress and violations
  • Attending hearings and other court proceedings for assigned individuals on probation
  • Coordinating support and services for individuals on probation

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Probation Officer Job Description Examples

Example 1

Position Summary:This position works under general direction and is responsible for supervising a misdemeanor probation caseload, according to state/federal laws, and company policy; will have regular contact with key customers, government officials and other CSRA personnel. This position must have the ability to plan, develop, coordinate, implement, and evaluate operations and services in a community corrections arena; excellent organizational, interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills; ability to perform comfortably in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented work environment; ability to successfully execute many complex tasks simultaneously; and ability to work as a team member, as well as independently.

Education/Experience:The formal education equivalent of a standard two-year college course of study (90 quarter hours/60 semester hours) or have four years law enforcement experience, at the time of appointment; any private probation officer who was employed as of July 1, 1996 and who had at least six months of experience as a private probation officer, or any person employed as a probation officer by a county, municipality, or consolidated government as of March 1, 2006, shall be exempt from such college requirements. Documentation of education, law enforcement experience, and POST certification is required.

JOB Responsibilities:

  • Supervises misdemeanor probationers ensuring their compliance with court mandates by reviewing court conditions, meeting with probationer face to face or via telephone.
  • Collects court fines and fees.
  • Reviews multiple reports as required and/or necessary to ensure probationers are being compliant per company policy and/or local office policy.
  • Prepares and/or collects data for revocation hearing for the appropriate jail or court.
  • May be required to attend and participate in violation of probation hearings concerning cases supervised.
  • Updates case management system with probationer compliance information, progress and related information.
  • Prepares cases to be modified by reviewing file and completing appropriate forms.
  • Prepares Violation of Probation Report/ warrants on a weekly basis and submits to the courts after prior review/approval by Team Leader or designated office representative.
  • Submits cases to be closed in a timely manner according to court mandates and company policy.
  • Conducts drug/alcohol tests as needed or assigned.
  • May attend court/jail to assist with the intake process.
  • May act as liaison between the courts and consults with local judges to discuss a particular case or individual client.
  • May assist in the on-the-job training of new probation officers by serving as a mentor.
  • Conducts case audits of caseload to ensure compliance with company rules and standards as needed.
  • Travel may be required.
  • May be required to install house arrest/alcohol monitoring equipment on probationers.
  • Performs other duties as may be assigned by management.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $13.00 per hour

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • Monday to Location: One location

Example 2

HAYS County JOB Posting

Job TitleJuvenile Probation Officer I Job Number202200238
Department HeadJuvenile Probation Date OpenNovember 21,

2022
Salary Range Minimum$3,646.52 - $5,469.73 Monthly Dependent on Experience Application DeadlineUntil Filled

In order to be considered for employment with Hays County submit the following documents:
  • Hays County Employment Application
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
Find Hays County Employment Applications at:
  • Hays County website [website] and/or Experience
  • A bachelor s degree from an accredited college or university with either one year of graduate study in criminology, corrections, counseling, law, social work, psychology, sociology, or other field of instruction approved by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, or one year of related work experience.
Other Qualifications, Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
  • Texas Juvenile Justice Department certification as a probation officer.
  • Must obtain 60 hours of applicable training every two years to remain certified.
  • Must hold a valid Texas driver license and liability insurance coverage.
  • Driving record must reflect acceptable rating by Hays County to operate a county vehicle.

Required Skills
  • Provide supervision services to juvenile probationers and their families, including essential services such as risk assessments, case management, delinquency prevention, crisis intervention, academic and educational support, rehabilitation and treatment.
  • Facilitate, prepare, and process case tracking documentation for court and case management related services, including probation status, transfers, revocations, social background investigations, and other recommendations to juvenile courts, and in some cases, criminal courts.
  • Professional knowledge of psychology, social work, sociology, education, juvenile and criminal justice, child development, statistics and research, and public policy as it pertains to juvenile offenders.
  • Present competent court testimony in juvenile and criminal courts.
  • Be present in all court hearings involving juvenile offenders within the department s jurisdiction.
  • Professional skill in following oral and written instructions.
  • Professional skill in analyzing information and drawing valid conclusions.
  • Professional skill in oral communications in both one-on-one and group situations.
  • Professional skill in organization and task management.
  • Ability to intervene and correct behavior in a manner consistent with instructions received in training.
  • Ability to physically restrain youth when necessary and appropriately respond to abusive language and conduct in a manner consistent with instructions received in training.
  • Performs other duties as [website]
Under the direct supervision of the Chief Juvenile Probation Officer and as an extension of the juvenile court, the Juvenile Probation Officer I provide supervision services to juveniles in the juvenile justice system and their families in compliance with the polices and standards established by the
Texas Juvenile Justice Department, County Commissioners, Chief Probation Officer, and the Juvenile Board.

Hays County is an EEO employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Hays County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

An offer of employment is contingent upon successful completion of background checks, including reference checks, criminal history, and driver s license checks and driving history.

X: \Job postings\Juvenile Probation\0975 - Juvenile Probation Officer I - Juvenile Probation - [website]

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $3,646.52 - $5,469.73 per month

Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 8 hour Location: One location

Example 3

Essential Functions:

  • Adhere to and enforce building policies
  • Inform Juvenile Center Administration of reported issues in a timely fashion
  • Effectuate Emergency Building Code Procedures; coordinate with first responders
  • Prevent liability by adhering to 4 key principles: Medical, Psychological, Illegal Detention regarding Admit charges, and Prosecution-No Files after Admission
  • Do not admit minors to the facility for non-detainable offenses
  • Release minors whose cases have been rejected by Prosecution
  • Ensure medical screenings are completed prior to entering detention and before the transporting officer leaves the Intake Area
  • Ensure psychological assessments are completed prior to entering detention and before the transporting officer leaves the Intake Area
  • Study all Probation Reports/Notes, DCS Reports, Placement Reports, Prior Fact Sheets and Juvenile Center Detention Notebooks prior to allowing an individual admission; identify dangerously/sexually aggressive behavior and notify Administration and Department Heads of findings in order to ensure safety; mark Resident Chart accordingly (High Risk 3) and log in current Detention Notebooks
  • Work with local police agencies to complete the Intake Admissions Procedures, ensuring the Probable Cause Affidavit is signed
  • Ensure the following is completed for a new admission:
  • Detention Screening and Report Form
  • Prison Rape and Elimination Packet (Federally required)
  • Preliminary Inquiry (Probation Officers must complete this form)
  • Medical and Dental Release Form
  • MAYSI-2 Screening Release Form and test scores
  • Risk Assessment Form
  • Rights Packet and Consent to Release Background Information
  • Three copies of the police report (as required by Prosecutor)
  • Police report checklist
  • Resident Chart (which goes to Detention after Intake)
  • Folder record
  • Dress Code for Residents
  • Resident Shoe Disclaimer
  • Property sheet and card
  • Ensure effective daily operation of the Intake Department, including the following tasks:
  • Complete the Population Sheet
  • Perform head count during every shift
  • Document actions/events that occur in the facility
  • Report daily situations to the Administration
  • Log and monitor all appointments that occur with residents
  • Log all Court dates, off-site medical and psychological runs for detained residents in Intake Calendar Book
  • Report emergency situations using the Probation Status Report
  • Complete IGS/IBS referrals and packets
  • Complete proper pat-down of incoming residents, ensuring gender-to-gender pat-downs
  • Oversee Document Center for all Juvenile Center departments
  • Effectuate and log Video Visitation
  • Maintain personal property of detained residents
  • Scan police reports
  • Distribute Daily Population Sheet to Administration, Medical, Psychological, Education, Resident Supervision, Security and Housekeeping
  • Interview and counsel residents and their parents as needed
  • Verify all information gathered about resident with their legal guardian
  • Complete computer procedures through Quest
  • Responsible for Central Control Console as needed
  • Assist Security with the Visitation sign in process, ensuring appropriateness of visitor
  • Prepare reports for detained minors
  • Represent the Probation Department by attending all Detention/Initial Hearings for all new admits, providing verbal recommendation to the Court regarding detention; enter services for detained minor that do not have a probation officer assigned into MAGIK, using the Quest system
  • Effectuate all Court Orders that deal with detained juveniles
  • Monitor and document all communication with detained residents, ensuring rights are protected
  • Effectuate psychological and medical procedures, accepting medication if no nurse is present and using a Medical Control Form
  • Work with CPS to make and log referrals, providing a safe and secure environment to conduct abuse allegations
  • Ensure compliance with the Interstate Compact Policy as mandated by the State of Indiana
  • Ensure following shift is properly notified of all important information
  • Act as Custody Supervisor as directed by the Administration and the Department of Corrections



Knowledge/SKILL:

The Intake Probation Officer will hold a Bachelor s degree from a regionally-accredited institution of higher learning and must hold a Probation Officer Certification. Qualified applicants will pass an NCIC check and drug screen.

Specific Skills Include:

Ability to effectively communicate by telephone, in writing and in person

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $36,879.00 - $67,800.00 per year

Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Holidays
  • Night shift
  • Weekend availability

Education:
  • Bachelor's (Required)

Shift availability:
  • Day Shift (Required)
  • Night Shift (Required)
  • Overnight Shift Location: One location

Example 4

Employee will give offenders a verbal level of supervision assessment, which is completed to determine the offender's reporting schedule. Special conditions such as community service, drug screens, and community program referrals are coordinated by the probation officer. Will accept the payment of fines, restitution and cost. Must effectively conduct intake and supervision of offenders, and execute duties in Court. Must possess exemplary verbal and written communication skills, as well as sound judgement and discretion. A proficiency in basic computer skills are necessary to facilitate the requirements of documenting offender and collateral contacts within the offender's file.

*Act as a liaison between organizations, courts, and offenders. Working with multiple groups within each organization. Candidates will be well organized, analytical, critical thinkers, and systematic. Travel to multiple courts on a weekly basis. Must be flexible to work weekdays and evenings as court schedule dictates. Must provide own transportation.

 must pass a pre/employment drug screen and background check

  • Bachelor's Degree preferred/Associates accepted
  • must have a valid drivers license


Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From $15.00 per hour

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift



Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Atlanta, GA 30340: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

License/Certification:
  • Driver's License Location: In person

Example 5

The Canton Municipal Court Probation Department Please note: At least one year of prior experience working with offenders is required in a related field. The Canton Municipal Court is accepting applications for the full time position of Probation Officer within the Municipal Probation Department. Probation Officers within the Municipal Probation Department provide community control supervision and case management of misdemeanor offenders sentenced by the Court. The Probation Officer is responsible for the enforcement of all Court Orders and terms of probation. Other responsibilities include documentation and maintenance of accurate records; conducting Ohio Risk Assessment and similar offender risk/needs assessments; development and management of offender supervision plans; instruction of evidence based curriculums; conducting pre sentence investigations; conducting expungement investigations; conducting urinalysis drug testing on offenders; enforcement and collection of court costs and restitution; supervision of electric monitoring/house arrest cases; effecting arrests; testifying at court hearings and revocation proceedings; and establishing and maintaining effective relationships with community agencies. Position may require compliance with State Community Corrections Act Grant or Specialized Docket Standards. Successful candidate will be required to submit to psychological examination and must be deemed fit to carry a firearm. This position requires direct contact with offenders and exposure to potentially stressful and dangerous situations and conditions and high crime areas. Qualifications for this position require an undergraduate degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, sociology or related field; at least one year of prior experience working with offenders and one year experience working in the court system. Successful candidate must possess the ability to demonstrate a basic knowledge of mental health, trauma and substance abuse issues. Successful candidate must possess the ability to assess and resolve problems; motivate offenders toward prosocial lifestyles and facilitate interventions that assist defendants in changing their thinking and behavior. Other necessary skills include Ohio Risk Assessment System (ORAS) certification; experience with offender evidence based practices and interventions; effective interpersonal communication skills and strong organization skills. Starting salary based upon education, experience and skills from $38,480 annually. Fringe benefits include hospitalization/medical, vision and dental, prescription coverage. Candidates wishing to be considered should submit a Letter of Interest, Resume' and two (2) letter of professional reference to: Lauren Kelly, Chief Probation Officer The Canton Municipal Court 218 Cleveland Ave SW Canton, Ohio [phone number] This position will remain posted until filled. NO PHONE CALLS Please Only those applicants invited for an interview will be contacted. Applicants should not call or contact any Probation or Court employee concerning their application. The Canton Municipal Court is an Equal Opportunity Employee. Job Type: Full-time Pay: From $38,480.00 per year Benefits: * Dental insurance * Health insurance * Paid time off * Professional development assistance * Retirement plan * Tuition reimbursement * Vision insurance Schedule: * Monday to Friday COVID-19 considerations: Staff and visitors of the Court are required to wear masks regardless of vaccination status while on the first floor of the Court. Education: * Bachelor's (Required) * Driver's License (Required) Work Location: One location

Example 6

Baxter County is now seeking a qualified applicant to fill the role of Juvenile Probation Officer. The successful candidate will have experience working with young people and their families, familiarity with the Court system and the desire to make a difference in young lives. This is a full time, hourly position with full benefits including 100% paid employee health, dental, vision and life insurance. Paid time off for vacation, personal and sick time and enrollment in the Arkansas Public Employee Retirement System. If you have the drive contribute to our County this may be your chance! Important NOTE: THE Candidate MUST BE Located/Willing TO Relocate TO Within A 30 Minute Radius OF Mountain HOME, AR. *General Description OF Position* Pursuant to Court orders and contracts: Conduct meetings with the juvenile and his/her parents/guardians. Assess and monitor juveniles' behavior and activities during their probation periods. Monitor for compliance with all court orders directed by the Court or contract agreed upon such as: curfew, school attendance; community service; apology letters; counseling; and payment of restitution, fees and fines. Meet at least once per month with each client and his/her parents/guardians. Maintain state mandated data base and perform state required assessment surveys to meet statute requirements. Conduct home checks as necessary and/or oversee Intensive Supervision Officers' checks on juveniles to ensure compliance with curfew and that appropriate supervision is being provided for the juvenile by the parent/guardian. Review electronic monitoring reports to ensure juveniles= compliance. Perform drug test on juvenile and/or parents as necessary and/or ordered by the court. Identify and facilitate appropriate out of home placements; i.e. Civilian Student Training Program, Job Corp., Division of Youth Services, host homes, group homes, treatment programs, etc. *Qualifications* To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty mentioned satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. *Education AND Experience* Broad knowledge of such fields as accounting, marketing, business administration, finance, etc. Equivalent to a four year college degree, plus 3 years related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience. *_*_ _*_* Job Type: Full-time Pay: $14.62 - $23.13 per hour Benefits: * Dental insurance * Health insurance * Life insurance * Retirement plan * Vision insurance Schedule: * 8 hour shift Education: * Bachelor's (Required) * Driver's License (Required) Work Location: One location
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What does a Probation Officer do?

Probation Officers work with individuals with criminal legal system involvement throughout their probation period to ensure they follow the terms and complete the program. They primarily work to detect probation violations and initiate legal action when necessary if violations occur. Various monitoring methods are used to ensure they stick to the program, such as administering drug tests to make sure they stay clean or verifying that they complete the community service or attend the classes required. Probation Officers can also support their probationers as they get back on track after a conviction by finding them the support and resources they need to be successful. They typically work for government organizations.

Probation Officer skills and qualifications

Being a Probation Officer requires certain skills and qualifications. Job descriptions for these positions often include the following:

  • Ability to juggle multiple cases at one time and keep the details straight
  • Analytical and decision-making skills
  • Strong communication skills, including written and verbal communication as well as active listening
  • Ability to work in fast-paced and potentially dangerous situations
  • Comfort with using various software programs to track and report information
  • Interpersonal skills and the ability to work with a variety of people

Probation Officer experience requirements

Probation Officers typically need some experience working in the criminal justice system. This might include working in law enforcement, case management, correctional facilities or treatment facilities. Experience in positions that help them understand how the court system works can be beneficial in this role.

Probation Officer education and training requirements

Most Probation Officers need at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as social work, criminal justice or criminology. Some organizations might accept a certain number of years of experience in lieu of a bachelor’s degree. Depending on the state, Probation Officers may be required to attend training and earn a certification. Some states have different certifications based on the type of position, such as Juvenile Probation Officers.

Probation Officer salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Probation Officer is $48,442 per year. Differences in salaries are due to factors such as location, organization and candidate experience.

Probation Officer salary expectations

2025-10-0114000.0058357.65142000.00YEARLY
  • Common salary: 58357.65 YEARLY
  • Typical salaries range from 14000.00 - 142000.00 YEARLY
  • Find more information on Indeed Salaries

*Indeed data – 2025-10-01

Job description samples for similar positions

A Probation Officer may not be the best fit for your organization. Here are some similar positions that might work better for your vacancy:

Probation Officer job description FAQs

What is the difference between a Probation Officer and a Parole Officer?

Parole and Probation Officers both monitor the activities of individuals with criminal legal system involvement but at different points in the process. Probation Officers work with people sentenced to probation without jail time. Parole Officers work with inmates who are being released from jail to help them reintegrate into society. They continue monitoring and meeting with them after they’re released.

What qualities make a good Probation Officer?

Probation Officers need to be comfortable working with individuals with criminal legal system involvement, including sometimes violent or dangerous individuals. Being able to stay calm under pressure is important as is having good stress management skills. A Probation Officer also needs to have strong ethics and the ability to keep all information about probationers confidential.

What makes a good Probation Officer job description?

Thoroughly describe the types of cases the candidate will work on. Include specialties the position has, such as working with juvenile offenders. Specify the certifications and experience you require to weed out candidates who aren’t qualified. It’s also helpful to include special perks or benefits your organization offers to help attract applicants.

What are the different types of Probation Officers?

A Juvenile Probation Officer works with probationers under age 18 who went through the juvenile court system. They help improve situations that led them to their behavior, such as child abuse, to help rehabilitate them. Adult Probation Officers work with adults to ensure they complete the punishment they’ve received while discouraging them from breaking the law again.

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