Probation Officer (Adult Probation Department)

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, probation with restrictive conditions or participating in the accelerated rehabilitative disposition program.

Probation officers are required to properly identify an offender’s risk level using an actuarial risk assessment tool and in turn identify the needs of the offender and match programming that will provide the competencies necessary to develop long term behavior change.  Additionally, this position ensures that offenders are held accountable for their behaviors, while attending to the protection and safety of the community in which they live. 

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 prior to a formal job offer being made. 

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:


* Supervise offenders through a variety of contacts including office, home, field, employment, etc.  Maintain collateral contacts with family, employers, victims, or pertinent others regarding the offender.  Contacts generally 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.


* Accurately assess risk and needs and develop case plans that address needs while providing supervision at a level commensurate with risk.


* Refer offenders to treatment agencies as needed, become familiar with and maintain professional relationships with other agencies.


* Utilize motivational interviewing techniques to assist those under supervision to explore and resolve ambivalence and to increase motivation for change.


* Utilize cognitive-behavioral group and individual interventions such as role plays and modeling to change behavior and build skills.


* Reward positive behavior as appropriate and address negative behavior through graduated responses.


* Develop familiarity with agencies and resources available to provide services to those under supervision and their families.


* Hold offenders accountable by monitoring drug testing results, participation with treatment, community ...