Probation Officer, Presentence Unit

By statute, probation and pretrial services officers serve in a judiciary law enforcement position and assist in the administration of justice. Officers promote community safety, gather information, supervise defendant/offenders during traditional and non-traditional hours, interact with other agencies, conduct investigations, prepare reports, and present recommendations to the court.

Employees of the United States Probation Office are not subject to the regulations of the Civil Service Commission. They are, however, federal employees of the Judicial Branch and are entitled to most of the same benefits as other federal government employees, such as:
Up to 13 days paid vacation per year for the first three (3) years of employment, thereafter, 20 to 26 days per year, dependent upon the length of federal service; a minimum of eleven (11) paid holidays per year; mandatory participation in the federal retirement system and social security program; optional participation in the federal health insurance program of your choice;

optional vision and dental programs are offered; optional participation in the flexible spending program for health and childcare; optional participation in a group life insurance program; retirement – Basic Benefit (FERS employees);
Thrift Savings Plan – Automatic Contribution 1% of Basic Pay for FERS employee and employee matching up to an additional 4% of Basic Pay. When computing leave accrual and retirement benefits, time in service with other federal agencies and time for prior military service is taken into consideration.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university, in a field of study involving criminal justice, psychology, sociology, human relations, social work, business, public administration, or related field.
• Must have two years of specialized experience or a master's degree in a field of study closely related to the position or a Juris Doctorate degree.

• Progressively responsible experience gained after completion of a bachelor's degree, in such fields as probation, pretrial services, parole, corrections, criminal investigations, or work in substance/addiction treatment. Experience as a police, custodial, or security officer, other than that which includes specific criminal investigative experience, is not creditable.

• Master's degree in the fields listed previously under Specialized Experience or Juris Doctorate
• Excellent problem-solving skills and interpersonal skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• The ability to analyze relevant information and prepare an accurate written summary of technical information in an organized, objective, clear and concise manner.

• Successful candidates must be mature and highly organized; must possess tact, good judgment, poise, and initiative; and must always maintain a professional appearance and demeanor. The ability to meet the public, work harmoniously with others and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, is required.