Probation Officer Careers

Discover Probation Officer Careers

Many probation officers in the field will retire between now and 2012, which will create many new openings and opportunities for those interested in pursuing probation officer careers. However, because probation officer careers involve dealing with much stress, heavy work loads, and low pay, it is no surprise that some probation officer careers become available as those currently employed in the field look for other employment.

Due to strict enforcement of the laws by police, inmate populations are expected to continue to rise. As judges and lawyers seek to ease the overburdened prisons, more are also expected to be placed on parole and probation. In addition, it is economically advantageous to place these offenders on probation or parole rather than in prison, although political opinions may not be in agreement. These factors will also combine to increase the need for those that have been educated in probation officer careers.

Prisoners that are put on probation rather than put in jail are supervised by those that have pursued probation officer careers. These prisoners must stay out of trouble and obey the regulations given to them by the probation officers. Probation officers are also required to keep tabs on these prisoners, which may be adults or juveniles, during their probationary period. The probation officers then write reports and recommendations regarding the offenders, which are used in court. Probation officers may even have to testify in court with respect to this information.

Training for those interested in pursuing probation officer careers is often sponsored by the Federal or State government and requires a certification test. Excellent mental and physical health are also requirements for working within probation officer careers.

One must be truly devoted and dedicated to pursue probation officer careers and to stay in the field. Those that do pursue probation officer careers can expect to earn an average of $38,360 per year. Jobs in urban areas tend to result in higher wages.

Featured Criminal Justice School

The Brown Mackie College system of schools offers bachelor’s and associate’s degrees, and diploma and certificates in Criminal Justice.* The Criminal Justice programs at the Brown Mackie College schools provide a solid foundation for those who seek employment in criminal justice systems, including the field of corrections and the court systems.

The programs focus on the development of real-world knowledge of the criminal justice system and explore the social, legal and technological challenges of the field. Graduates will be prepared to pursue entry-level positions or to apply their understanding of criminology, the judicial process, corrections and criminal law to their current job.

* Not all credential levels are offered at each location. Program availability varies by location.

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