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County Probation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Probation/Pretrial Manager

VA · On-site

$91K - $152K/yr

Prince William County, VA Job Type: Full-Time (FT) Job Number: 202610673 Department: CRIMINAL ... D and 7 years of related experience in probation or pretrial services. Preferences: * Bachelor ...

Sheriff's Deputy

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$66K - $116K/yr

If you are a probationary employee and voluntarily terminate employment with the County, you will be required to repay the amount of the first incentive payment. The County will deduct the dollar ...

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County Probation information

See Virginia salary details

$31.2K

$62.4K

$98.6K

How much do county probation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for county probation in Virginia is $62,425.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $73,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by county probation officers in managing their caseloads?

County probation officers often manage large and diverse caseloads, which can be challenging due to the varying needs and risk levels of clients. Balancing administrative tasks, such as documentation and court reports, with fieldwork and direct supervision requires strong organizational skills. Officers may encounter resistance or noncompliance from clients, so effective communication and problem-solving abilities are essential. Additionally, collaboration with law enforcement, social services, and the courts is frequent, requiring flexibility and teamwork. Staying updated on legal and procedural changes is also important to ensure compliance and best outcomes.

What qualifications do I need to be a trainee probation officer?

To become a trainee probation officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some roles require a college degree or relevant experience. A background in social work, criminal justice, or related fields is beneficial, and strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential. Additional training or certification may be provided during the probation officer training program.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a County Probation Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a County Probation Officer, you need a background in criminal justice, social work, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and state certification. Knowledge of case management software, legal documentation systems, and electronic monitoring tools is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, conflict resolution, and organizational skills help officers build rapport with clients and manage complex caseloads. These skills are crucial for ensuring compliance with court orders, supporting rehabilitation, and maintaining community safety.

What is the difference between County Probation vs County Parole Officer?

AspectCounty ProbationCounty Parole Officer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or related field; some positions may require certificationSimilar educational requirements; often requires parole-specific training or certification
Work EnvironmentWorks within the probation department, supervising offenders on probation in community settingsWorks within parole agencies, supervising offenders released from prison in community settings
Employer & IndustryCounty government, criminal justice systemCounty government, criminal justice system
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to overlapping roles in offender supervisionRelated but focuses on offenders transitioning from incarceration to community

County Probation and County Parole Officer roles both involve supervising offenders in the community, but probation officers typically oversee individuals on probation, while parole officers supervise those released from prison. Both positions require similar educational backgrounds and work within county criminal justice agencies, serving different stages of offender rehabilitation.

What classes do you need to become a probation officer?

To become a probation officer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, social work, psychology, or a related field. Relevant coursework may include criminal law, counseling, and social services, and some positions require passing a background check and completing training programs or certifications such as a probation officer academy.

Is it hard to get hired as a probation officer?

Getting hired as a probation officer can be competitive, often requiring a relevant bachelor's degree, background checks, and sometimes additional certifications or training. Candidates with prior experience in social work, criminal justice, or law enforcement may have an advantage in the hiring process.

What are county probation officers?

County probation officers are professionals who supervise individuals who have been placed on probation instead of serving time in jail or prison. They monitor offenders' compliance with court-ordered conditions, provide support and resources for rehabilitation, and ensure public safety. Their duties often include conducting regular check-ins, coordinating with treatment providers, preparing reports for the court, and sometimes working with victims. Probation officers play a crucial role in helping offenders reintegrate into the community while holding them accountable for their actions.
Infographic showing various County Probation job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,425 per year, or $30 per hour.

Juvenile Probation Counselor II

Arlington County, VA

Arlington, VA • On-site

$83K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description


IMPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Arlington County Juvenile and Domestic Relations (JDR) Court is seeking a Juvenile Probation Counselor II to join the Juvenile Probation Unit of the Court Services Unit. This position is responsible for investigating juvenile delinquent cases, developing treatment/probation plans, and preparing and maintaining reports and records. Services are provided to an ethnically diverse population of whom many speak Spanish and have limited English speaking skills.
The Juvenile Probation Unit's mission is to provide the Court with investigation and supervision services which promote behavioral change and accountability in youth.
Responsibilities
Specific Duties:
  • Conducting investigations and assessments of delinquent, Children in Need of Supervision/Services (CHINS) and custody cases including social and legal history;
  • Attending court hearings and testifying in court;
  • Monitoring compliance with court orders;
  • Counseling clients and family members;
  • Consulting with treatment professionals, such as psychologists or counselors;
  • Making referrals to appropriate programs, treatments, or services;
  • Preparing legal documents, correspondence, pre-sentence reports and memos; and
  • Maintaining probation records

The ideal candidate will have the following:
  • Knowledge of the criminal justice system including court proceedings and knowledge of causes of delinquent behavior and various community resources, particularly those dealing with substance abuse and mental health counseling;
  • A high level of attention to detail;
  • Ability to make thoughtful and independent decisions; and
  • Ability to interpret and apply regulations, guidelines, and statutes.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology or related field;
  • Considerable experience in probation, social work, crisis intervention, or family counseling; and
  • At least one year working within a legal/court/probation environment must be included in experience.

Substitution(s): Additional qualifying experience may substitute for the education requirement on a year-for-year basis.
Desirable Qualifications: Preference may be given to applicants with experience in one or more of the following:
  • Bilingual ability in English and Spanish.
  • Probation or intake experience in the juvenile court system;
  • Training and experience using motivational interviewing techniques;
  • Experience with the BADGE data entry system and Youth Assessment Tools such as the YASI;
  • Counseling youth with social, emotional, and conduct problems and counseling parent(s) in complex family systems; and/or
  • Training and experience using evidence-based interventions in a community supervision setting such as the Risk, Need, Responsivity model.

Special Requirements
A pre-employment criminal record check will be conducted to include National Crime Information Center (NCIC) check, Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) background check, FBI fingerprints, and a Virginia Department of Social Services Child Protective Services Central Registry Search.
Driver's License: Applicant must possess, or obtain by time of appointment, a valid driver's license, and must provide or authorize Arlington County to obtain a copy of official driving record. Any offer of employment may be contingent upon favorable review of the applicants driving record.
Please complete each section of the application including the supplemental questions. Your responses to the supplemental questions are required because they provide us with specific information necessary to evaluate your qualifications for this position. These responses are considered part of the selection process. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please do not write "see resume" as a response to the questions. In accordance with § 19.2-392.15, applicants are not required to provide information regarding sealed arrests, charges, or convictions in response to any questions or inquiries during the hiring process.
Additional Information
Work hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Some evening and weekend hours may be required.
The official title of this position is Probation Counselor II.
For more information on Arlington County's generous benefits and retirement plan, click here.
Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Learn more about our commitment.
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