Probation Officer

Probation Officer

The Probation Officer is responsible for the supervision, case management, and rehabilitation of adult and juvenile offenders to promote public safety and reduce recidivism. This position involves conducting investigations, assessing risk and needs, developing individualized case plans, and collaborating with courts, law enforcement, and community agencies to ensure compliance with court orders. The Probation Officer plays a key role in guiding clients toward positive behavioral change through evidence-based practices and community-based interventions.

Job Duties

• Supervises adult and juvenile offenders to ensure compliance with court orders and promote rehabilitation. Duties include meeting with clients, conducting field visits to jails, homes, schools, and community locations, and assessing compliance with supervision terms.
• Conducts pre-dispositional and pre-sentence investigations, evaluations, and assessments to determine offender risk levels, needs, and appropriate treatment and supervision plans.
• Develops and implements individualized case plans using evidence-based practices focused on accountability, behavior change, and community safety.
• Makes court appearances to testify, provide recommendations, and present reports related to sentencing, violations, and treatment options.
• Coordinates referrals to community agencies and treatment providers to address identified needs such as substance use, mental health, education, and employment.
• Maintains accurate and timely case documentation, including reports, assessments, violation notices, and progress updates, in compliance with departmental and legal standards.
• Collaborates closely with law enforcement, courts, social services, and other partners to support offender rehabilitation and reintegration.
• Responds to emergencies, assesses violations, and takes appropriate action consistent with department policy and court orders.
• Performs additional duties of a similar nature or level as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Corrections, Sociology, or a related field.
• Two (2) years of experience in corrections, counseling, or chemical dependency preferred.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Must pass a thorough background investigation.

Supplemental Information

Knowledge:

• Principles and practices of probation, case management, and offender supervision.
• Risk and needs assessment tools and evidence-based correctional practices.
• Court procedures, sentencing guidelines, and relevant laws and regulations.
• Community resources and treatment programs addressing mental health, substance use, and related issues.
• Documentation standards and confidentiality laws.

Skills:

• Conducting investigations, assessments, and interviews to evaluate offender risk, needs, and progress.
• Developing and managing individualized supervision and treatment plans.
• Communicating effectively with offenders, families, colleagues, law enforcement, and the court system.
• Managing multiple cases and priorities in a dynamic work environment.
• Writing clear, accurate, and comprehensive reports for court and departmental use.
• Using electronic case management systems and standard office software applications.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods during interviews, meetings, and documentation tasks.
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry materials or files up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to travel for field visits, court appearances, and training.
• Work may involve exposure to stressful or confrontational situations.
• Must be able to perform essential physical duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

Kandiyohi County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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