Probation Officer Trainee

JOB SUMMARY:

Performs various professional casework tasks involving juveniles and adults under Court supervision; does related work as required. Upon successful completion of the required Probation Officer training, this role attains full Probation Officer status and receives a $1.25 per hour pay increase.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:

This position involves the planning and implementation of the probation/parole supervision plan for adult and juveniles on court supervision. The selected candidate will work directly with the offenders supervised by the department, having a caseload of adult or juvenile offenders in the Bradford County area. Court reports, such as presentence investigation reports are prepared as assigned. Guidance and oversight is provided by the Chief Probation Officer, Assistant Chief Probation Officer and P.O. Supervisor.

JOB FUNCTIONS:

· Supervises criminal offenders sentenced through the Bradford County Court of Common Pleas

· Assist in the implementation of evidence-based practices to reduce the likelihood of recidivism

· Makes visits to homes as well as office contacts

· Makes arrests and transports criminal offenders

· Monitors behavior and rehabilitation of adults and/or juveniles involved in the criminal justice system

· Makes Court appearances for testimony in adult and juvenile matters

· Appears in the Courtroom during sentencing and arraignments and assists the Judge and District Attorney with any problems that arise

· Attends Court for Probation, Parole Revocation hearings to present his/her case and assist the District Attorney’s Office with prosecution;

· Keeps records and makes electronic case note entries

· Promotes community organizations and services in the interest of probationers

· Prepares and dictates reports as required

· Performs other duties as assigned

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

· Must have the ability to record, convey, and present information, explain procedures, and follow instructions

· Must be able to sit for long periods of time with frequent periods of standing, walking, and occasional twisting, reaching, pulling, and pushing required for obtaining files, doing inspections or other job duties

· Dexterity requirements range from simple to complex movements of fingers/hands, legs/feet, or torso to carry out job duties

· Sedentary work with occasional lifting, 20-50 pounds

· Adequate vision and hearing for:

• Reading reports and legal documents
• Observing behavior and surroundings
• Communicating effectively in person and by phone/radio

· Ability to physically restrain or defend oneself if necessary

· Must complete a psychological evaluation administered by the department and subsequent training certifications in order to carry department issued firearm, OC spray, baton, and handcuffs

· Ability to work in stressful, unpredictable, or potentially dangerous environments

· Must be able to handle hostile environments and situations and implement the Use of Force continuum when necessary

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES:

· Must possess knowledge of modern social service practices and casework philosophy, methods and practices

· Must possess an understanding of applicable laws

· Must have knowledge of resource agencies and law enforcement agencies

· Must have knowledge of individual and group behavior

· Ability to deal with children and adults under exasperating circumstances

· Ability and desire to work successfully with people and to make independent decisions

· Ability to plan and organize work

· Ability to understand and interpret laws and regulations

· Ability to deal firmly and effectively with the public

· Must be an individual with integrity

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE and TRAINING:

· Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, Social Work or a related field required

· Equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledges, skills and abilities will also be accepted

· Valid Driver’s License

Pay: $18.00 - $19.25 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Loan forgiveness
• Military leave
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance
• Wellness program

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $19