I see probationers in my office for monthly probation meetings. One afternoon a week I go out into the field to verify my probationer's residence. And monthly I may have to go to court to request a...
Probation Officer Career Profiles
The role of a probation officer is to monitor individuals who have been convicted of committing crimes and are now released on parole or probation. They work with these offenders to make sure they stay out of trouble and help keep them on the right track by helping them find employment opportunities, providing them with treatment options, and maintaining their progress along the way. Probation officers are both disciplinarians and mentors for these men and women.
A bachelor’s degree is required to become a probation officer. While there is not an exact recommendation of study for individuals in this field, a degree in some type of human service is typically the most beneficial. This includes areas like criminal justice, social work, psychology, or sociology. Additionally, some employers will look for prior experience in law enforcement as well.
Probation officers work with criminals every single day, and some of these individuals may be dangerous. This job has the potential for both dangerous and stressful situations, so individuals pursuing this career path should be prepared for these circumstances as much as possible.
To learn more about the career path of a probation officer, check out the career profiles below. We interviewed professional probation officers to give you the inside scoop on this profession from the people who have firsthand experience.