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Entry Level Probation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JR2026-00027880 Probation Officer Trainee (Open) Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is ... Opportunity for bilingual pay This entry level position involves job orientation and training under ...

New

JR2026-00027880 Probation Officer Trainee (Open) Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is ... Opportunity for bilingual pay This entry level position involves job orientation and training under ...

New

Probation Officer I/II

MN ยท On-site

$33.93 - $46.31/hr

Continuous JOB SPECIFICS A Probation Officer I/II provides pre-trial, supervision and case ... This entry-level position requires a Bachelor's Degree in criminal justice, sociology, psychology ...

JR2026-00027834 Probation Officer Trainee (Open) Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is ... Opportunity for bilingual pay This entry level position involves job orientation and training under ...

JR2026-00027484 Probation Officer Trainee (Juvenile) (Open) Applications No Longer Accepted On (If ... Opportunity for bilingual pay This entry level position involves job orientation and training under ...

JR2026-00027834 Probation Officer Trainee (Open) Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is ... Opportunity for bilingual pay This entry level position involves job orientation and training under ...

JR2026-00027605 Probation Officer Trainee (Juvenile (Open) Applications No Longer Accepted On (If ... Opportunity for bilingual pay This entry level position involves job orientation and training under ...

JR2026-00027605 Probation Officer Trainee (Juvenile (Open) Applications No Longer Accepted On (If ... Opportunity for bilingual pay This entry level position involves job orientation and training under ...

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Entry Level Probation information

See salary details

$25K

$47.8K

$68.5K

How much do entry level probation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level probation in the United States is $47,831.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $52,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level probation officers?

Entry level probation officers are professionals who supervise individuals placed on probation instead of serving time in jail or prison. They work to ensure that offenders comply with the terms of their probation, support their rehabilitation, and help reduce the likelihood of reoffending. These officers typically perform tasks such as meeting with probationers, conducting home and workplace visits, preparing reports for courts, and collaborating with community resources. Entry level positions generally require a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field and may involve training or certification depending on the jurisdiction.

Can I be a probation officer without a degree?

Entry-level probation officer positions typically require at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but many agencies prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, social work, or related fields. Having a degree can improve job prospects and eligibility for advancement, and some roles may require additional training or certification. Requirements vary by jurisdiction and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level probation officers during their first year on the job?

Entry-level probation officers often encounter challenges such as managing heavy caseloads, learning to balance administrative tasks with direct client supervision, and adapting to the emotional demands of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Navigating complex legal protocols and developing effective communication skills with offenders, victims, and law enforcement partners are also key hurdles. Supportive training programs and mentorship from experienced colleagues are typically available to help new officers transition successfully into the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Probation Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Probation Officer, you need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, psychology, or a related field, along with a solid understanding of case management and the criminal justice system. Familiarity with case management software and databases, as well as completion of agency-specific training or certification, is often required. Strong interpersonal, organizational, and conflict resolution skills help build rapport with clients and collaborate with law enforcement or social services. These skills are crucial for effectively monitoring probationers, ensuring compliance, and supporting public safety.

How to get hired while on probation?

To get hired while on probation for an entry-level probation position, demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and a willingness to learn during the application and interview process. Highlight relevant skills, such as communication and problem-solving, and show a positive attitude to increase your chances of permanent employment after the probation period.

Is it hard to get hired as a probation officer?

Getting hired as a probation officer can be competitive, as it often requires a relevant bachelor's degree, background checks, and sometimes prior experience or training in criminal justice or social work. Strong interpersonal skills, knowledge of legal procedures, and passing a series of interviews and assessments are also typically necessary for employment in this field.

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

AspectEntry Level ProbationEntry Level Parole Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require a bachelor's degreeHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require a bachelor's degree
Work EnvironmentCommunity settings, offices, courtsCommunity supervision, offices, courts
Employer & Industry UsageCourts, probation departments, criminal justiceState parole agencies, criminal justice
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar entry requirements and community supervision rolesRelated roles in criminal justice with different supervision scope

Entry Level Probation and Entry Level Parole Officer roles both involve supervising offenders in the community. Probation officers typically work with individuals on probation, while parole officers supervise those released on parole. Both positions require similar educational backgrounds and are employed within criminal justice agencies, but they focus on different stages of the offender's supervision process.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Probation jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Probation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Probation jobs? The most popular types of Probation jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Probation jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Probation jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Probation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,831 per year, or $23 per hour.
Deputy Probation Officer I/II/III

Deputy Probation Officer I/II/III

County of Del Norte, CA

Crescent City, CA โ€ข On-site

$2.1K - $2.7K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Salary : $2,136.02 - $2,731.04 Biweekly
Location : Crescent City, CA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 21-00325
Department: Probation & Juvenile Hall
Division: Probation
Opening Date: 01/15/2026
General Recruitment Information:
This recruitment will establish a list of candidates to be used in filling the vacancy as well as an eligibility list that may be used for future vacancies or temporary help for up to one (1) year.
Job Opportunity:
Only online applications are accepted. It is the responsibility of each applicant to review the full job description and requirements. Resumes are encouraged, but will not be accepted in lieu of required application materials. Applications which are incomplete as of the final date to apply will be eliminated from consideration. Candidates who meet all the minimum qualifications may be invited to an oral interview.
Description
Expected Hire Pay Scale*:
Deputy Probation Officer I: $2,136.02 - $2,354.96
Deputy Probation Officer II: $2,300.26 - $2,536.03
Deputy Probation Officer III: $2,477.13 - $2,731.04
*Current County employees may be eligible for a higher step placement per the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The County of Del Norte Probation Department is seeking a qualified candidate to fill five (5) vacancies for the position of Deputy Probation Officer I/II/III. This position is classified as full-time.
Deputy Probation Officer I/II:
These are the entry and journey level positions in a series of classification of Deputy Probation Officer that requires skills and abilities to monitor adults and/or juveniles on court probation or programs and to assure adherence to conditions of the probation. Employees in this classification receive limited supervision within a framework of standard policies and procedures. This work consists of responsible professional duties at an entry to journeyman level within a classification series.
Deputy Probation Officer I is the first working level in this class and under direct to general supervision, is assigned duties and cases which may be routine to complex. The entry-level position is assigned duties that will increase experience and expertise and with the additional ability and increased skills may be eligible for advancement in this series.
Deputy Probation Officer II is the journey-level and is assigned duties relative to the more complex cases under minimal supervision except as new or unusual circumstances require. Incumbents advanced to this level must have demonstrated the ability and skill for successful performance.
Deputy Probation Officer III:
This is the lead person position in a series of classification of Deputy Probation Officer performing professional probation work that requires a high level of skills and abilities to monitor adults and/or juveniles on court probation or programs to assure adherence to conditions of the probation and to coordinate juvenile or adult probation case work.
Deputy Probation Officer III is the experienced level and is assigned the complex and technical cases and tasks and is capable of working independently in any number of assignments without direct supervision except as new or unusual circumstances require. This level may supervise and train other Deputy Probation Officers in a lead person capacity.
This work consists of responsible and complex professional duties within an operational unit.
Detailed Work Activities
Essential job duties may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks.
  • Monitors assigned probationary caseload of juveniles and/or adults and assures adherence to conditions of probation.
  • Arranges and monitors placement of individuals on probation in rehabilitation and/or treatment programs such as work furlough, group homes, Alcoholics Anonymous, etc.
  • Intervenes in crisis situations, counsels families, communicates with involved community and/or private agencies, makes referrals as required.
  • Communicates with Sheriff's Office, Police Department, District Attorney's Office, Probation Departments and/or social service agencies, on crime investigation and prevention.
  • Compiles, investigates, verifies, and presents reports on personal, social, educational, financial, health and/or prior criminal involvement of probationers.
  • Presents reports to sentencing courts, Board of Parole Commissioners, District Attorney and/or other involved agencies and makes recommendations on disposition of case.
  • Appears and/or testifies in court for detention, jurisdictional, disposition, and/or violation of parole hearings, attends special and/or annual reviews and/or sealing records.
  • Files necessary legal documents relating to probation caseload including petitions, sealing of records, case reviews, etc.
  • Acts as liaison between Board of Parole Commissioners and inmates of City/County jail.
  • Performs courtesy investigation and monitoring for Probation Departments in other states or counties.
  • Performs related duties as required.
  • Receives, investigates and resolves more difficult complaints pertaining to juvenile and/or adult probation and detention matters.

Minimum Qualifications
Deputy Probation Officer I:
Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent; Bachelor's degree in behavioral science, criminal justice, or a related filed in preferred.
Experience: Some experience working with juveniles or adults in a program or setting that would provide the necessary knowledge and abilities to learn the job.
Deputy Probation Officer II:
In addition to the above for Deputy Probation Officer I, a minimum of one (1) year experience as a Deputy Probation Officer I or an equivalent position in another agency or probation field.
Deputy Probation Officer III:
Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent; A Bachelor's degree in behavioral science, criminal justice or related field is preferred.
Experience: Three years of responsible experience in the probation field with one year as a Deputy Probation Officer II or equivalent position in another agency and the demonstrated ability to work independently and to train and oversee the work of others in a lead-person capacity.
Special Requirements:
  • All levels must meet the Minimum standards for peace officers pursuant to Government Code Section 1031.
Deputy Probation Officer I:
Must successfully complete a minimum of 200 hours of instruction in the Basic Probation Officers Course as certified by the California State Board of Corrections within the first year of appointment to this classification. Training required under Section 832 of Penal Code (Search & Seizure) must be successfully completed within 90 days of employment.
Deputy Probation Officer II:
Must successfully complete a minimum of 40 hours of annual training certified by the California Sate Board of Corrections in any year in which the incumbent is not enrolled in basic, supervisory, management, or administrators course. The annual training is designed as continuing education to update knowledge and improve skills.
Deputy Probation Officer III:
Minimum standards for peace officers pursuant to Government Code Section 1031.
  • Possession of a valid California Driver's License.
  • Possession of a Certificate of Training in arrest, search and seizure procedures.
    • Must successfully complete a minimum of 80 hours of the Supervisory Probation Course of instruction certified by the California State Board of Corrections within one year of the date of hire into this class.
    • Must successfully complete an additional 40 hours of certified instruction annually thereafter.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Deputy Probation Officer I:
  • Possession of a valid California Driver's License.
  • Knowledge of the basic principles and practices of applied psychology.
  • Knowledge of interviewing techniques.
  • Ability to acquire a Certificate of completion of Training in Search, Seizure, and Arrest procedures.
  • Ability to learn State laws and County ordinances appropriate to adult and juvenile probation.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, juvenile and adult offenders, judicial or legal personnel, etc.
  • Ability to write concise and accurate reports.
  • Ability to analyze investigative material and make proper deductions.
  • Ability to work a variety of work hours that include days, nights, weekends, holidays and overtime.
Deputy Probation Officer II:
  • Possession of a valid California Driver's License.
  • Possession of a Certificate of Training in Search, Seizure, and Arrest procedures.
  • Knowledge of the basic principles and practices of applied psychology.
  • Knowledge of interviewing techniques.
  • Knowledge of the principles and practices of adult and juvenile probation work.
  • Knowledge of Federal, State, and local laws and ordinances appropriate to adult and juvenile probation.
  • Knowledge of court procedures.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, juvenile and adult offenders, judicial or legal personnel, etc.
  • Ability to write concise and accurate reports.
  • Ability to analyze investigative material and make proper deductions.
  • Ability to work a variety of work hours that include days, nights, weekends, holidays and overtime.
Deputy Probation Officer III:
  • Knowledge of specialized adult and/or juvenile probation methods and procedures.
  • Knowledge of the organizational and procedural operations of a juvenile and/or adult unit within the Probation Department.
  • Knowledge of the basic principles and practices of applied psychology.
  • Knowledge of interviewing and court procedures.
  • Knowledge of principles and practices of adult and juvenile probation work.
  • Knowledge of Federal, State, and local laws and ordinances appropriate to adult and juvenile probation.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, juvenile and adult offenders, judicial or legal personnel, etc.
  • Ability to analyze, investigative material and make proper deductions.
  • Ability to work a variety of work hours that include days, nights, weekends, holidays and overtime.

Selection Process:
The County of Del Norte does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, religion, gender, age, sexual preference, or disability in any of its programs, activities, or hiring practices. All applications will be reviewed and those individuals with backgrounds most closely meeting the needs of the county will be selected for further review. In the event of a large number of qualifying applicants, a written examination may be given to determine which applicants will be invited to attend an oral interview. An eligibility list will be established upon completion of the oral interviews. Expenses (i.e. travel, food, lodging) incurred in connection with the interview shall be the burden of the applicant. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if special accommodations are necessary at any stage of the selection process, please contact the Human Resources Office prior to the interview/examination so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
Condition of Employment:
In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act, Del Norte County is required to verify, within three days of employment of any person, that he/she is: 1) a citizen or national of the United States; 2) an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence or authorized by the Immigration and Naturalization Service to work in the United States.
Disaster Service Workers: All County of Del Norte employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through State law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County of Del Norte requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Work related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
Del Norte County is an equal opportunity employer hiring employment eligible applicants. Disabled applicants who require special testing arrangements should contact the Human Resources Department prior to the filing deadline. In accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act, applicants must provide acceptable proof of identity or authorization to work in the United States. A thorough background investigation will be conducted prior to employment. The investigation may include reference checks, fingerprinting, credit check, driver history and inquiry to local, state and federal files to obtain criminal history information. All applicants who meet the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed advancement through any subsequent phase of the selection process. Selection processes may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: application review, competitive screening, written examination, performance examination, and/or oral examination. This bulletin is solely for the purpose of announcing a job opening. It does not constitute a contract, expressed or implied, and any provisions contained herein may be modified or revised without notice.
NOTE: Refer to labor agreements (MOUs) for specific benefit information.
01
Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have a Bachelor's degree in behavioral science, criminal justice, or in a related field.
  • Yes
  • No

03