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Probation Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Probation Officer

Carrollton, GA · On-site

$29K - $35K/mo

PROBATION OFFICER FOR COURTS IN POLK AND PAULDING CO. WORKING WITH MISDEMEANOR OFFENDERS. ENFORCE COURT ORDERS BY SUPERVISING OFFENDERS. Company Description WE ARE A PRIVATE PROBATION CONTRACTOR IN ...

Probation Officer

Carrollton, GA · On-site

$29K - $35K/mo

PROBATION OFFICER FOR COURTS IN POLK AND PAULDING CO. WORKING WITH MISDEMEANOR OFFENDERS. ENFORCE COURT ORDERS BY SUPERVISING OFFENDERS. Company Description WE ARE A PRIVATE PROBATION CONTRACTOR IN ...

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A misdemeanor probation officer (PO) supervises offenders in the community, in lieu of incarceration. Special conditions such as community service, drug screens, and treatment referral programs are ...

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Probation Officer information

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$31.5K

$63K

$99.5K

How much do probation officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for probation officer 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 Probation Officers face when managing their caseloads?

Probation Officers often manage large and diverse caseloads, which can present challenges such as balancing administrative paperwork with fieldwork, ensuring compliance with court orders, and addressing the unique needs of each client. They may also encounter difficulties in motivating clients to make positive changes while maintaining public safety. Building strong relationships with clients, collaborating with law enforcement, and utilizing community resources are critical strategies for overcoming these challenges.

How to become a probation officer?

To become a probation officer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, social work, or a related field. Applicants must complete a training program, pass background checks, and often obtain state certification or licensure, which may include passing written exams and demonstrating knowledge of criminal justice procedures.

What are probation officers?

Probation officers are law enforcement professionals who supervise individuals who have been placed on probation instead of serving time in prison. They work to ensure that probationers comply with the terms set by the court, such as attending counseling, maintaining employment, and avoiding criminal activity. Probation officers also provide resources and support to help individuals rehabilitate and reintegrate into society while monitoring their progress and submitting regular reports to the court. Their role is crucial in balancing public safety with the rehabilitation of offenders.

Is it hard to get hired as a probation officer?

Getting hired as a probation officer can be competitive, as it typically requires a relevant bachelor's degree, such as in criminal justice or social work, along with passing background checks and sometimes completing training or certification. Strong communication, interpersonal skills, and experience in law enforcement or social services can improve job prospects, but the hiring process often involves multiple steps including interviews and assessments.

What Do Probation Officers Do?

Probation officers monitor criminal offenders, typically non-violent cases, to prevent them from committing crimes again. The courts assign probation officers with their caseload and instructions on how to work with the offenders, including the level of supervision required. Probation officers interview the offenders to determine their risk of repeat criminal activity, then provide guidance to fulfill the instructions from the court. Instructions may include helping the offenders find jobs, get substance abuse treatment, and complete community service projects. The probation officer oversees these cases, visits with the offenders regularly, and documents their progress to ensure that they are complying with their probation stipulations.

What do you need to do to become a probation officer?

To become a probation officer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, social work, or a related field. Many states require passing a background check, completing training or certification, and sometimes obtaining a master's degree or professional certification. Relevant skills include strong communication, decision-making, and knowledge of the criminal justice system.

What is the highest a probation officer can get paid?

The highest salaries for probation officers typically reach around $70,000 to $80,000 annually, often in senior or supervisory roles with extensive experience, advanced education, or specialized certifications. Salary varies by location, agency size, and level of responsibility, with some top earners in large urban areas or federal agencies earning higher wages.

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

To thrive as a Probation Officer, you need a solid understanding of criminal justice principles, case management, and often a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with case management software, electronic monitoring systems, and criminal records databases is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, critical thinking, and conflict resolution skills help officers build rapport and manage challenging situations. These skills are crucial for effectively supervising offenders, ensuring public safety, and supporting rehabilitation.

What is the difference between Probation Officer vs Parole Officer?

AspectProbation OfficerParole Officer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in criminal justice or related field; some positions require a master'sBachelor's degree; often requires experience in criminal justice; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentCommunity settings, offices, courtsCommunity and correctional facilities, field visits
Employer & IndustryCourts, criminal justice agenciesCorrectional agencies, parole boards
Primary FocusSupervising offenders on probation, ensuring compliance with court ordersMonitoring parolees after release, ensuring reintegration and compliance

While both Probation Officers and Parole Officers supervise offenders within the criminal justice system, Probation Officers primarily oversee individuals on probation before or instead of incarceration, whereas Parole Officers supervise those released on parole after serving part of their sentence. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and involve community supervision, but their focus and timing within the criminal justice process differ.

What cities are hiring for Probation Officer jobs? Cities with the most Probation Officer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Probation Officer jobs? The most popular types of Probation Officer jobs are:
What states have the most Probation Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Probation Officer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Probation Officer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,965 per year, or $30.3 per hour.
Probation Officer

Probation Officer

Professional Probation Services, Inc.

Rockledge, FL • On-site

$34K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 5 days ago


Professional Probation Services rating

5.1

Company rating: 5.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

410th of 449 rated business services


Job description

Bilingual- a PLUS

Probation Officers give offenders a verbal level of supervision assessment, which is completed to determine the offender's reporting schedule. Special conditions such as community service, drug screens, and community program referrals are coordinated by the probation officer. Our agency accepts the payment of fines, restitution and cost. Each PO must effectively conduct intake and supervision of offenders, and execute duties in Court. Each PO must possess exemplary verbal and written communication skills, as well as sound judgement and discretion. A proficiency in basic computer skills are necessary to facilitate the requirements of documenting offender and collateral contacts within the offender's file.

* Must pass a pre/employment drug screen and background check

* Must have a valid drivers license and a dependable, working vehicle

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k) with company match
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 8 hours per day, Monday - Friday

Education:

  • Probation Officers must possess a Bachelor's degree, or a two (2) year degree and three (3) years of relevant
    experience in social work, community corrections, probation, pretrial services, or law
    enforcement, or five (5) years of relevant experience in social work, community
    corrections, probation, pre-trial services, or law enforcement.

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Required)

Company Description

PPS is one of the oldest and largest private probation companies in Florida.

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