Court Researcher Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Overview & Benefits
Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan's leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents.
When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. Apply today and help shape the future of Oakland County, where we are All Ways Moving Forward.
For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit:
https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire
General Summary
$18.61 - $21.71
This is an on-site internship either located in our Pontiac or Troy office
Ready to gain real-world experience while making a difference in the lives of youth and families? This internship offers hands-on exposure to juvenile probation work, including courtroom procedures, client advocacy, compliance monitoring, and specialized projects that support the mission of the Casework Services Department. You'll work closely with experienced probation professionals, contribute to meaningful casework, and gain insight into how public service shapes positive outcomes for young people in Oakland County.
What You'll Do
• Assist probation staff in monitoring court-ordered compliance, documenting progress, and supporting youth as they complete required programs or services.
• Observe courtroom proceedings and learn how probation officers present cases, provide recommendations, and collaborate with judges and attorneys.
• Participate in client interviews and mentorship activities to help support youth and families navigating the juvenile justice process.
• Help draft court reports, organize documentation, and prepare materials used in hearings or case reviews.
• Communicate with clients, families, service providers, schools, and community agencies to collect or share information relevant to case progress.
• Work on special projects such as researching recidivism trends, analyzing program outcomes, and assisting with data collection that supports department initiatives.
• Shadow probation officers to gain practical experience in case management, community engagement, and day-to-day departmental operations.
• Use department-specific software and databases to support casework, documentation, and data analysis.
Why You'll Love It Here
• Make a meaningful impact by supporting youth who are working through challenging situations and striving to meet court expectations.
• Learn directly from dedicated probation professionals who are committed to mentorship and youth advocacy.
• Build transferable skills in casework support, communication, courtroom procedures, report writing, data analysis, and public service.
• Explore career pathways in criminal justice, social work, behavioral health, and other County departments.
• Gain confidence by applying your academic knowledge in a collaborative, real-world environment focused on rehabilitation and positive outcomes.
Minimum Qualifications
EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Must meet one of the following educational requirements:

• Current enrollment in an accredited college or university with status as a freshman or sophomore status (equates to steps 1 or 2 of salary range).
• Current enrollment in an accredited college or university with status as a junior/senior status (equates to steps 3 or 4 of salary range).
• Current enrollment in an accredited college or university in a graduate degree program (equates to steps 5 or 6 of salary range).

ADDITIONAL DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Reasonable ability to present ideas effectively, either orally or in writing.
• Reasonable ability to utilize personal computer programs and other data processing capabilities.
• Reasonable ability to utilize current word processing, spreadsheet, database, e-mail, and Internet software.
• Knowledge of program analysis, evaluation, research methods and statistics.

Ability to:

• Plan and complete assignments within deadlines.
• Make routine decisions in accordance with policies and procedures.
• Recognize and correct departures from operating practices and procedures.
• Initiate improvements in operations.
• Perform standardized and statistical computations.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
WHEN ASSIGNED TO CIRCUIT COURT
Employees of this classification may be required to provide their own vehicle or personal transportation in performing job functions. Employees who use their own vehicle for County purposes are eligible to receive mileage reimbursement.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Depending on departmental assignment, one or more job functions may be applicable.

• Analyzes, generates, and maintains records and other reference material necessary for departmental use.
• Composes, types, and prints reports, general letters, spreadsheets, e-mail, and memoranda from rough drafts or general instructions, involving the assembly of data from computer and paper file or record sources.
• Answers and makes phone calls, responds to program related questions, and sends written material as appropriate.
• Responsible for project assignments, research, and analysis.
• Prepares reports analyzing specific aspects of department structures, functions and/or operational procedures.
• Assists in interviewing and communicating with children, parents, schools, police, and other agencies as needed, to determine background information and client/parent needs for counseling.
• Conducts interviews with County personnel and outside agencies to relay and gather information for departmental use.
• Applies research techniques and analytical methods to the study of administrative systems, organizational structures, policies, and procedures.
• Prepares project reports, progress summaries, statistical analysis, and related data.
• Conducts initial and ongoing interviews with referred clients to gather and subsequently analyze information and social history to resolve identified issues.
• Conducts special studies in conjunction with a project, analyzes data and makes recommendations based upon studies.
• Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides information and assistance to the general public and other governmental agencies.

ESSENTIAL MENTAL & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Depending on departmental assignment, one or more requirements may be applicable.

• Ability to communicate with employees and public, ability to understand and respond to questions, follow directions.
• Skilled in comparing characteristics of document, and to perform arithmetic accurately.
• Assignments at Children's Village require the ability to accurately view surroundings and distinguish details at close range. Some assignments include the ability to differentiate color as reports are color coded.

WORKING CONDITIONS
Depending on departmental assignment, one or more requirements may be applicable.

• Most assignments involve work performed in a normal office environment.
• May be required provide reliable personal transportation to travel off of the County campus or to specific sites in the performance of job duties.
• At Children's Village or Circuit Court may encounter situations where people could become confrontational.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification. Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.
Additional Minimum Qualifications
Union*
*If applicable
EEO Statement
We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.
Inclusion Statement
Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. If you have the skills and qualifications for the position, we encourage you to apply. All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD.