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Entry Level Probation Officer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Supplemental Information The Southfield Police Cadet Program is used as an applicant pool for hiring entry-level probationary Police Officers. However, participation in the Cadet Program does not ...

Police Cadet

Southfield, MI · On-site

$20/hr

Supplemental Information The Southfield Police Cadet Program is used as an applicant pool for hiring entry-level probationary Police Officers. However, participation in the Cadet Program does not ...

Entry Level Probation Officer information

See Michigan salary details

$27.5K

$54.9K

$86.7K

How much do entry level probation officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level probation officer in Michigan is $54,880.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $64,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level probation officer?

Entry level probation officers are professionals who supervise individuals placed on probation instead of serving time in prison. Their primary role is to monitor offenders, ensure compliance with court-ordered conditions, and provide support to help them reintegrate into society. They typically work under the guidance of senior officers while learning to manage caseloads, conduct interviews, and prepare reports for the court. Entry level positions are ideal for recent graduates or those new to the field, offering valuable training and experience in criminal justice.

Do you need experience to be an entry level probation officer?

Entry level probation officers typically do not need prior experience, but they must have a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, social work, or a related field. On-the-job training and supervision are common, and strong communication and interpersonal skills are important for success in the role.

Can I be an entry level probation officer without a degree?

Entry level probation officers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, but many agencies prefer candidates with some college coursework or a degree in criminal justice or a related field. Having a degree can improve job prospects and eligibility for advancement, and some positions may require additional training or certification. Skills in communication, judgment, and understanding of the legal system are also important for this role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Probation Officer vs Juvenile Probation Officer?

AspectEntry Level Probation OfficerJuvenile Probation Officer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in criminal justice, social work, or related fieldBachelor's degree; some roles prefer additional certifications in juvenile justice
Work EnvironmentCourts, probation offices, community settingsJuvenile detention centers, schools, community programs
Employer & IndustryCourts, government agencies, probation departmentsChild welfare agencies, juvenile courts, government departments
Common Search/ComparisonEntry Level Probation Officer vs Juvenile Probation Officer

While both roles involve supervising offenders, a Juvenile Probation Officer specifically works with minors in juvenile justice settings, whereas an Entry Level Probation Officer may handle adult cases. The credentials and work environments are similar, but the focus on juvenile populations distinguishes the two positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level probation officer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Probation Officer, you need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field, knowledge of legal procedures, and strong report-writing abilities. Familiarity with case management systems, drug testing tools, and risk assessment software is commonly expected. Exceptional interpersonal skills, sound judgment, and effective communication help officers build trust with clients and collaborate with law enforcement and social service agencies. These competencies are crucial for promoting rehabilitation, ensuring community safety, and maintaining compliance with legal standards.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level probation officers, and how can they prepare for them?

Entry level probation officers often face challenges such as managing high caseloads, balancing administrative work with client supervision, and establishing authority with clients who may be resistant to supervision. To prepare, it's helpful to develop strong organizational skills, learn effective communication and conflict resolution strategies, and seek mentorship from experienced colleagues. Participating in ongoing training and familiarizing yourself with local laws and procedures can also build confidence and effectiveness in the role.

What does an entry level probation officer do?

An entry-level probation officer works with convicted offenders who are on a probation period as part of their sentence. As a probation officer, you ensure that each offender meets the conditions of their probation. You also make sure that they follow the legal procedure as required by the court. You make a record of each case to show to a judge or lawyer if necessary. Your duties include managing each case and ensuring that the person on probation has access to employment, training, and other services. An entry-level probation officer works under the supervision of a senior probation officer.

What are the most commonly searched types of Probation Officer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Probation Officer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Probation Officer jobs in Michigan? For Entry Level Probation Officer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Probation Officer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Probation Officer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Entry Level Probation Officer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Entry Level Probation Officer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Probation Officer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,880 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

$51K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

U.S. Probation / Pretrial Services Officers serve in a judiciary law enforcement capacity and assist in the fair administration of justice. Incumbents promote community safety, gather information, conduct investigations, interact with collateral agencies, prepare reports, present recommendations to the court, and supervise and monitor persons under federal supervision.Qualifications:Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a field of academic study which provides evidence of the capacity to understand and apply the legal requirements and human relations skills involved in the position, is required.
To Qualify for CL-25 ($51,419 - $90,804), the selected candidate must have:
  • One (1) year of specialized experience; Or
  • Completion of the requirements for a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and an overall "B" grade point average equaling 2.90 or better of a possible 4.0.
To Qualify for CL-27 ($59,732 - 107,101), the selected candidate must have:
  • Two (2) years of specialized experience; Or
  • Completion of a master's degree in a field of study closely related to the position, or a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
To Qualify for CL-28 ($71,583 - $128,385), the selected candidate must have:
  • Two (2) years of specialized experience;
Specialized Experience:
Progressively responsible experience, gained after completion of a bachelor's degree, in such fields as probation, pretrial services, parole, corrections, criminal investigations, or work in substance/addiction treatment, public administration, human relations, social work, psychology, or mental health.
Experience as a police, custodial, or security officer, other than any criminal investigative experience, is not creditable.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Documented experience conducting presentence investigations and preparing presentence reports and/or maintaining a caseload, enforcing court ordered supervision conditions, and implementing supervision strategies.
  • Experience with evidence-based practices a plus.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills. Superior attention to detail.
  • Ability to organize and prioritize work schedule and work independently with minimal supervision. Ability to work under pressure of short deadlines while maintaining a positive and professional demeanor.
  • Fluency in a foreign language a plus.
  • Previous community corrections and/or social services experience is preferred for entry level (CL 25) consideration.

Physical Requirements
The duties of probation and pretrial services officers require the investigation and management of alleged criminal offenders or convicted offenders who present physical danger to officers and to the public. In the supervision, treatment, and control of these offenders, these duties require moderate to arduous physical exercise, including prolonged periods of walking and standing, physical dexterity and coordination necessary for officer safety, and use of self-defense tactics. Candidates must be physically capable to perform these duties.
Maximum Entry Age
First time appointees to positions covered under law enforcement officer retirement provisions must not have reached their 37th birthday at the time of appointment. Applicants 37 or over who have previous federal law enforcement officer experience under the Federal Civil Service Retirement System or the Federal Employees Retirement System and who have either a subsequent break in service or intervening service in a non-law enforcement officer position may have their previous law enforcement officer experience subtracted from their age to determine whether they meet the maximum age requirement.
Medical Examination, Drug Screening and Background Investigations
First time appointees to the position of U.S. Probation Officer must undergo an extensive federal background investigation. Further, prior to appointment, the selectee considered for this position will undergo a medical examination and drug screening. (*Regardless of applicable state laws, marijuana remains a prohibited substance under federal law and is included in drug testing.) Upon successful completion and clearance of the medical examination, drug screening, and a preliminary background check (which includes FBI fingerprinting, credit check, and a criminal history/driving record check), the selectee may be appointed provisionally.
In addition, as a condition of continued employment, incumbent will be subject to ongoing random drug screening, updated background investigations every five years, and, as deemed necessary by management for reasonable cause, may be subject to subsequent fitness-for-duty evaluations.
U.S. Probation & Pretrial Services Employment Suitability RequirementsEducation:Completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a field of academic study which provides evidence of the capacity to understand and apply the legal requirements and human relations skills involved in the position, is required.Employment Type: OTHER