ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Probation Department Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsProbation Department Jobs

Probation Department information

See salary details

$31.5K

$63K

$99.5K

How much do probation department jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for probation department in the United States is $62,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $74,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a Probation Department, and how can they effectively manage them?

Professionals in a Probation Department often encounter challenges such as managing heavy caseloads, dealing with high-risk individuals, and balancing public safety with rehabilitation goals. Effective time management, strong communication skills, and ongoing training in conflict resolution and risk assessment are crucial for success. Collaboration with law enforcement, social services, and community organizations also helps probation officers provide well-rounded support to clients while maintaining accountability. Seeking mentorship and participating in regular team debriefings can further help navigate the emotional demands and complexities of the role.

What does the Probation Department do?

The Probation Department is responsible for supervising individuals who have been placed on probation instead of serving time in jail or prison. Their main goal is to ensure that probationers comply with court-ordered conditions, such as attending counseling, performing community service, or avoiding further legal trouble. Probation officers work closely with offenders to help them reintegrate into society, reduce the risk of reoffending, and protect public safety. The department also provides reports and recommendations to the courts regarding an individual's progress and compliance with probation terms.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Probation Department role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Probation Department role, you need a background in criminal justice or social work, strong case management skills, and often a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with case management software, court record systems, and risk assessment tools is typically required. Outstanding communication, critical thinking, and conflict resolution skills help probation officers build rapport with clients and manage challenging situations. These competencies are crucial for ensuring public safety, supporting offender rehabilitation, and maintaining effective supervision and compliance.

What is the difference between Probation Department vs Probation Officer?

AspectProbation DepartmentProbation Officer
RoleGovernment agency overseeing probation servicesIndividual responsible for supervising offenders on probation
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in criminal justice or related fieldRequires a degree in criminal justice, social work, or related field; often needs certification
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with field visitsFieldwork with offenders, office reports
EmployerLocal, state, or federal governmentGovernment agencies, courts, or probation departments

The Probation Department is the agency that manages probation services, while a Probation Officer is the professional working within that department to supervise offenders. The department provides the framework and resources, whereas the officer executes supervision and rehabilitation efforts.

What cities are hiring for Probation Department jobs? Cities with the most Probation Department job openings:
What states have the most Probation Department jobs? States with the most job openings for Probation Department jobs include:
Probation Department jobs near you

Probation Officer

Office of the Chief Judge/ Adult Probation Department-Cook County

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

                                           CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY
                                             ADULT PROBATION DEPARTMENT
                                                         PROBATION OFFICER
                                               Job Title: Adult Probation Officer
                                                            Grade: PS1 - Entry
                                                        Starting Salary: $67,308
                                                   Reports to: Sworn Supervisor
                                                                        Union: AFSCME 3486
PROFILE:
Operating under the Office of the Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County, the Adult Probation Department administers a wide range of programs covering both standard and specialized probation supervision and pretrial and presentence services. Through its programs, the Adult Probation Department provides the court with pertinent information at many stages of the criminal justice process, enhances public safety, compensates victims of crime and holds offenders accountable while affording them opportunities to make positive changes in their lives. 
The majority of Adult Probation Department resources are dedicated to probation supervision, while residing in the community. Department probation officers assist individuals in complying with their conditions of supervision through guidance, surveillance and referrals to service providers for treatment, education and employment services.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • Establish residency in the State of Illinois within 90 days of appointment. 
  • Possess a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree from a four-year accredited college/university, preferably with major coursework in criminal justice, psychology, sociology, social work or related social sciences.
  • Ability to master various computer systems utilized by Adult Probation Department.
  • Ability to pass a background check. 
  • A valid Illinois driver’s license and a good driving record, along with the availability of an insured motor vehicle.
  • Ability to collect and process urinalysis drug tests and oral DNA samples.
  • Ability to service clients in their homes and in the community, in accordance with department policy.
  • Ability to conduct a criminal background check, as determined by the Illinois State Police.
  • Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays, at any location serviced by the courts and/or Probation Department.
  • Ability to perform a variety of tasks, often changing assignments on short notice.
  • Ability to establish priorities and a course of action for handling multiple tasks. 
  • Ability to exercise independent judgment within prescribed limits and complete miscellaneous projects and problem solving.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Ability to complete all duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Possess the ability to complete field work, which may entail ability to get in and out of a car, climb stairs and walk moderate distances.
  • Possess the ability to complete and pass control tactics training.
  • Possess the ability to remain seated at a desk for long periods of time in front of a computer screen. 
  • Possess the ability to intermittently twist to reach equipment or supplies.
  • Possess the ability to perform simple grasping and fine manipulation.
  • Possess the ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 20 pounds.
  • Possess the ability to travel to various sites to conduct and facilitate training.
  • Possess the ability to use telephone and computer keyboard on a daily basis; and
  • Possess the ability to work in-person 100% of the scheduled work week.

The duties listed are not set forth for the purpose of limiting the assignment of work.  They are not to be construed as a complete list of the duties to be performed under the job title or those to be performed temporarily outside an employee’s line of work.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
In addition to the application, qualified applicants should submit the following:
  • Letter of interest addressed to Chief Probation Officer Megan Volker, addressing work experience and the qualifications for this position.
  • Applicant’s current resume.
  • AOIC/OSPS Eligibility Letter.
  • College Transcripts.
Only those candidates that have submitted all of the required documents will be considered. Please submit all required documents during application submission.
References to apply for AOIC/ OSPS Eligibility      
https://ilcourtsaudio.blob.core.windows.net/antilles-resources/resources/4440b5b9-0de9-40ee-bbd5-a1f56698b6b3/Application_Instructions.pdf
Illinois Probation/Court Services Employment/Promotion Application
OSPS
Pretrial Eligible Application | Illinois Office of Statewide Pretrial Services
College transcripts can be emailed directly by the school to the compliance email address (compliance@ilosps.gov), or mailed in a sealed envelope to:
Office of Statewide Pretrial Services
850 East Madison Street, 3rd Floor
Springfield, IL 62702
This position requires a pre-employment drug screening and criminal background check. Applicants are advised that as a Drug Free Workplace, use of medical or recreational marijuana is prohibited and will disqualify a candidate from employment. All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all required screening criteria.
Information concerning the benefits for this position can be found at the Circuit Court of Cook  County Employment Opportunities Page.
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all screenings.  Application materials should be submitted by the close of business on Friday, June 5, 2026.  Please apply by filling out the application at our Career Page.
     THE OFFICE OF THE CHIEF JUDGE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
It is the policy of the Office of the Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County to provide equal opportunity in employment to all employees and applicants for employment. No person is to be discriminated against in employment because of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation.
Interviews will begin June 2026.
 

THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY- OFFICE OF THE CHIEF JUDGE and ADULT PROBATION DEPARTMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

  1. Employee are required to establish and maintain residency with the State of Illinois within six(6) months of hire.
  2. The duties listed are not set forth for the purpose of limiting the assignment of work. They are not to be construed as a complete list of the duties to be performed under the job title or those to be performed temporarily outside an employee’s line of work.

Powered by JazzHR

0RmRQbC86n