What are the responsibilities and job description for the Probation Officer (Adult Probation) position at Berks County?
Job Description
POSITION SUMMARY :
This position enforces the orders of the Berks County Courts, performing a variety of tasks in order to supervise offenders on probation, parole or participating in the accelerated rehabilitative disposition program. This position ensures that offenders are held accountable for their behaviors, while attending to the needs of the community to diligently assist in protection. In addition, probation / parole officers are expected to assist in the development of competencies within the offender so that they may become productive, law-abiding members of the community. Though not essential, this position is expected to converse with Spanish-speaking offenders and other clients if able.
Probation / Parole officers hired after July 1, 2005 are required to obtain certification to carry a firearm through the County Probation and Parole Officers' Firearm and Training Commission within eighteen months from the date of hire or face disciplinary action, up to and including termination. Candidates for the position shall undergo a psychological evaluation to determine fitness to carry a firearm.
Probation / Parole officer compensation is based upon years of service and job performance. PO I is typically the entry level pay grade. PO II may be achieved after three years of service, PO III after eight years of service and PO IV after twelve years. All promotions require satisfactory performance ratings as outlined in the Probation Officer Performance Evaluation.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES :
Essential Functions
- Supervise offenders through a variety of contacts including office, home, field, employment, etc. Maintaining collateral contacts with family, employers, victims, or pertinent others regarding offender. Contacts to be made during regular office and non-traditional hours.
- Document all case-related contacts and generate reports when necessary in a timely fashion. Complete all other necessary paperwork as required and maintain progress reports on offenders.
- Refer offenders to treatment agencies as needed, become familiar with and maintain professional relationships with other agencies.
- Represent the department in Court by presenting information and formally testifying when necessary.
- Participate in the apprehension and transportation of offenders not complying with the terms of their probation supervision, if trained to do so.
- Meet Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole standards of 40 hours of training yearly and assist in the development of new officers through mentoring.
- Hold offenders accountable by : monitoring drug testing results, participation with treatment, community service, compliance with electronic monitoring, and any other Court ordered obligations. Issuing warrants and assisting with arrests of those in violation of the Court's order.
- Providing intake services for newly sentenced offenders.
- Conduct thorough and appropriate parole plans
Non-Essential Functions
MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE :
MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES :
PHYSICAL DEMANDS :
WORKING ENVIRONMENT :
This position description serves as a guideline for communicating the essential functions and other information about the position to the applicant / employee. It is not intended to create a binding employment contract nor cover every detail of the position and may be changed where appropriate.
About Us
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement :
The County of Berks provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
About Us :
Berks County is a combination of rich farm country, industry, beautiful parks, entertainment, and top-notch educational institutions. Whether you are interested in County services, the availability of our parks, tax rates, or other county information, this is the place to start.
About the Team
Mission Statement :
It is the mission of Berks County government and all County employees to administer and deliver services to the citizens of the County in the most effective, efficient and professional manner possible within the constraints of the financial resources available.
