Probation Officer (Juvenile Probation Department)

POSITION SUMMARY: 

This position enforces the orders of the Berks County Juvenile Court, performing a variety of tasks in order to supervise those under the care of the Court or under the informal supervision of the Juvenile Probation Office.  Under Balanced and Restorative Justice principles, juvenile probation officers serve three clients equally: the victim, the offender and the community. This position ensures that youth are held accountable for their behavior to both the victim and the community.  In addition, using evidence-based principles and practices, juvenile probation officers are expected to assist in the development of competencies within youth so that they may become productive, law-abiding members of the community.  Though not essential, this position is expected to utilize bilingual language skills to communicate with Spanish-speaking clients if sufficient proficiency is demonstrated.

Probation officers 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 an offer of employment.

Juvenile probation 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 and PO IV after twelve years, all promotions requiring satisfactory performance ratings as outlined in the Probation Officer Performance Evaluation.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:


* Supervise youth through a variety of contacts including office, home, school, employment, etc.  Maintain contact with parents/guardians, schools, employers, community agencies and residential facilities.  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.


* Enforce the collection and initiate the dispersing of restitution for victims and other monetary obligations to the Court.


* Represent the department in Juvenile Court by presenting both written and verbal 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 Juvenile Court Judges’ Commission standards of 40 hours of training yearly and assist in the development of new officers through mentoring


* Hold offenders accountable by:  drug testing and making appropriate referrals for drug and alcohol evaluation and/or treatment; referring offenders to community service; making appropriate referrals for outpatient/in-home services and residential tr...