Examples of Essential Duties
Before registering for the Probation Officer Exam, please carefully review the examples of essential duties and the related minimum requirements for the position. It is important to understand that Probation Officers are responsible for community supervision, which may occur during or after court hours.
Position Summary
Supervises probationers to ensure compliance with court orders and applicable probation standards as well as to enhance public safety. Conducts interviews with probationers and/or families. Maintains accurate case management records and prepares records for court. Presents information to the court such as indigency recommendations, compliance with conditions of probation/court orders, investigation reports, record checks, requests for detention, motions to modify conditions, and arguments and recommendations at violation of probation proceedings. Makes referrals to Community Justice Support Centers, social service agencies and programs and monitors compliance as required by MPS standards and policies.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
- Oversees cases for individuals placed on probation supervision. Completes risk/need and other assessments.
- Performs community supervision and makes contact with victims as needed.
- Ensures program compliance through verification of conditions of release or conditions of probation.
- Assists probationers in navigating the process of successfully complying with conditions.
- Completes dispute interventions and family service investigations.
- Makes referrals to social service agencies, Community Justice Support Centers, and programs to ensure compliance.
- Prepares cases for court and addresses non-compliance issues.
- Administers drug screening, checks for test compliance, and completes updated records.
- Facilitates the skill development of probationers in order to achieve long term positive change.
- Performs other duties as required.
Supervision Recieved
Works under the direction of the Chief Probation Officer or their designee.
Supervisory Responsibilities
This position does not require supervision of others.
Impact of Actions/Independent Judgement
This position operates under general direction with long-term impact on the organization.
Working Conditions
Work is frequently performed in office or similar indoor environments and in the community. Potential exposure to unleashed animals may be a risk. Traffic incidents may be more likely in certain work/community environments.
Work requires frequent exposure to individuals who may be upset, angry, or hostile with known violent backgrounds, and moving mechanical parts, and occasional exposure to, fumes or airborne particles and loud noises.
Physical Demands
This position requires medium work:
Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly having to move objects. Employees must be able to train and learn probation defensive tactics.
Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience
- Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university; a concentration in human services, behavioral sciences, or criminal justice is preferred.
- Two (2) years of related work experience.
Knowledge and Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of:
- Modern office equipment and technology including computers and applicable software.
- Case Management Systems.
- MPS Policies and Standards and Trial Court Standards.
- Community resources and services.
Skill in:
- Organization and time management.
- Crisis management and conflict resolution.
Ability to:
- Establish effective working relationships with others.
- Prepare clear and accurate reports.
- Ability to conduct community supervision/field work.
- Maintain appropriate records.
- Maintain confidentiality of information.
- Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
- Work independently and follow oral and written instructions.
- Ability to travel as needed to conduct community supervision/field work.
- Administer drug tests and installation of GPS equipment.
Other Requirements After Passing the Exam and Prior to an Appointment
Massachusetts Residency Requirement
Pursuant to Chapter 478, sec. 328 of the Acts of 1978, no person who is not a resident of the Commonwealth shall serve as an officer in or an employee of the Judicial Branch; provided, however, that this provision shall not apply to those persons serving as officers in or employees of the Judicial Branch prior to the effective date of Chapter 478, sec. 328.
Training
Candidates must satisfactorily complete the Probation Officer Academy and are subject to a probationary period. There is no physical abilities test required for this position.
Criminal Background Check
Candidates selected for appointment following an interview will be required to complete the Consent to Criminal Record Check Form. According to Trial Court Policy (Section 4.100), individuals with a misdemeanor conviction resulting in incarceration within the five-years prior to the application date, or those with a felony conviction, may be disqualified from employment. A CORI check involving other offenses will not automatically disqualify a candidate. Suitability determinations based on CORI checks will be made in accordance with this policy and any applicable law or regulations.
Finger Printing
In compliance with 28 C.F.R, the FBI CJIS Security Policy, and the MA CJIS User Agreement regarding access to confidential information, final candidate(s) will be required to undergo fingerprint-based background checks prior to initial hire and at least once every five years thereafter.
Pursuant to the provisions of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, after an offer of employment is made, selected candidates for appointment are required to complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9) and submit specific document(s) that establish identity and verify the right to work in the United States.
