The job of a probation officer can be a challenging one. Probation officers supervise criminals who are given probation for a period of months or possibly years. The probation officer is essentially part police officer and part social worker; he or she helps to ensure that those on probation stay out of trouble, make good choices and move on with their lives. From deciding if the job is right for you to training and beyond, this page will show you how to become a probation officer.

Are you interested in a career in the criminal justice system? A career as a probation officer might be a good option. Probation officers work with criminals who, in lieu of a prison term or lengthier prison term, have been given a period of probation as punishment for their crimes. It is the job of the probation officer to supervise these people through regular, court-appointed meetings. Probation officers write up reports for courts to use when evaluating those on probation. A vast majority of probation officers work with either juveniles or adults -- usually not both. Read on for more information on the role of the probation officer.

Probation officers supervise criminal offenders; their work often begins even before a sentence has been handed down by conducting background research on both the crime and the criminal. Probation officers work for the courts, and may recommend a sentence in some cases. If the criminal is sentenced to probation, he or she will be required by law to report to a probation officer regularly for a set period of time, usually years.

In addition to regular meetings with offenders, probation officers also attend court hearings, conduct field work and arrange and supervise community service activities for their clients.

The job of a probation officer is not always an easy one. Probation officers' responsibilities are many; their duties within the court system include providing background information on criminals, testifying at hearings and submitting progress reports. Probation officers:

1. Often have heavy caseloads—at any one time, a probation officer may be handling 100 or more individual caseshttp://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos265.htm#nature http://www.appa-net.org/eweb/DynamicPage.aspx?WebCode=VB_FAQ#14
2. Meet regularly with criminals in an office and frequently by phone; some probation officers also make home visits to family members
3. Frequently work long hours; some are also on call 24/7 to deal with potential situations with their clients
4. Run the risks associated with dealing with criminals. Some probation officers have been attacked by their clientshttp://www.rrstar.com/news/x679795838/17-year-old-punches-probation-officer

A bachelor's degree is typically required to work as a probation officer. Educational requirements vary between states, however; some require only a high school diploma and previous related experience.http://www.appa-net.org/eweb/DynamicPage.aspx?WebCode=VB_FAQ#2 Other states may require probation officer candidates to have bachelor's degrees.

1. Candidates who wish to become a probation officer typically receive a bachelor's degree in the following:
   1. Criminal justice
   2. Psychology
   3. Social work
2. A master's degree may also be required, depending on the employer.
3. As with other jobs in law enforcement and the criminal justice system, if you have a felony conviction you will not be allowed to work as a probation officer.
4. Age requirements vary from state to state and between state and federal agencies.
   1. Almost all states require probation officers to be at least 21 years old.
   2. Federal agencies specify that candidates cannot be older than 37 years old.http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos265.htm#training
5. Potential probation officers often endure a vetting process similar to other jobs in law enforcement, and that includes taking a civil service test designed to evaluate a trainee's skills, knowledge and abilities. A polygraph test may also be required.
6. In some states, training continues well after a parole officer is hired.

• Once you have completed the educational requirements for becoming a probation officer, it is time to look for a job.

1. For information on probation officer jobs in your state, contact the state's corrections department. The American Probation and Parole Association (APPA) maintains a Probation and Parole Directory list of state contact information online.http://www.appa-net.org/eweb/DynamicPage.aspx?Webcode=VB_Directory
2. Once you have established the correct agency you need and have inquired about job openings, the application process begins.
3. Submit applications only in areas where you would be willing to move. If you are unwilling to relocate, be sure to specify the area in which you would like to work.
4. Take the necessary exams to become a probation officer in your state. In addition to written exams, most states require job candidates to pass a physical agility test.
5. When you have completed and passed all necessary tests, it is time for the job interview! For tips on preparing, check out Mahalo's guide on How to Prepare for a Job Interview.
6. Can you earn a good living as a probation officer? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists was $50,500 as of May 2009.http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes211092.htm#nat

• Once you have been hired as a probation officer, the training does not stop. In most states, probation officers undergo a series of classes and exams to further their knowledge.

1. New hires in New York State are required to take a two-week Fundamentals of Probation Practice (FPP) course.
2. Virtual training is also required.http://dpca.state.ny.us/training.htm
3. Many states also require extensive computer training.

• A probation officer is a key component of the court system in the U.S. The training and exams required to become a probation officer are rigorous, but the rewards can be great. Through careful supervision, probation officers can bridge the gap between a criminal past and a brighter future for many. While working with those who have made poor choices in the past can be stressful, having a hand in helping offenders rise up and better themselves can be an immensely gratifying experience.