Definition of Class
Juvenile Probation Officer line staff perform the daily operations of the department in accordance with The Juvenile Act PA C.S. §6301, to provide children committing delinquent acts programs of supervision, care and rehabilitation which provide balanced attention to the protections of the community, the imposition of accountability for offenses committed and the development of competencies to enable children to become responsible and productive members of the community. Probation officers are to also achieve the forgoing purposes in a family environment whenever possible, separating the child from the parents only when necessary for their welfare, safety or health or in the interests of public safety, by doing all of the following: employing evidence-based practices whenever possible and, in the case of a delinquent child, by using the least restrictive intervention that is consistent with the protection of the community, the imposition of accountability for offenses committed and the rehabilitation, supervision and treatment needs of the child.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities
A Probation Officer must have a working knowledge of modern probation, social service principles and practices as well as an ability to learn the laws, rules and regulations pertaining to probation and the legal system. He/she must also have an ability to meet and deal successfully with probation clients and their families, an ability to meet and deal successfully with probation clients and the public under trying circumstances. A Probation Officer must have high moral standards and integrity. The following attributes are also necessary: emotional stability and good self-control under stress, good judgment in matters relating to human service work, impartiality and firmness and supervisory ability. Further, a Probation Officer must develop an ability to analyze complex problems and make appropriate decisions. Knowledge of available community resources dealing with social, psychological, medical and economic and other elements affecting juveniles. Knowledge of Cognitive Behavioral Interventions, Motivational Interviewing, departmental policy and procedures. Ability to prepare concise and accurate reports and records. Effective time and case management skills. Ability to communicate effectively and present testimony to the Courts.
Minimum Requirement 1
Graduate of an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Social Work or related field or its equivalent with a minimum 18 credits in Social Services.
Minimum Requirement 2
Must have a Valid Driver’s License
Minimum Requirement 3
Must have use of a personal vehicle
Preferred Qualifications
One year of experience which has substantial contact with juvenile clients. Possession of a Master’s Degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or criminal justice may be substituted for the general experience requirements.
Supervision Required
Probation Officers report to their direct supervisor, Deputy Chief and Chief of Juvenile Probation.
Conditions of Employment
Submit to a driver’s record check and have acceptable history of driver’s license violations. Must submit and have an acceptable Pennsylvania State Police criminal history background check, Pennsylvania child and abuse background check and an FBI criminal history background check prior to the commencement of employment. Must pass a drug screening and psychological evaluation prior to employment. Work is normally performed in a typical interior / office work environment; however, community field work is also required. Non-traditional hours are required (11:30am – 7:30pm, 2pm – 10pm). Moderate physical activity, may require physical effort including lifting up to 40 pounds. May be required to use physical force to detain juveniles when needed.