When a judge hands someone a sentence
of time on probation,
the individual often has
major issues to sort out.
Probation officers and
correctional treatment specialists
help people on probation get reestablished
in a positive direction,
and avoid further trouble.
These officers and specialists
work with individuals
who are given probation instead of jail time,
who are still in prison,
or who have been released from prison.
Work starts with meetings to form
a rehabilitation plan.
The plan might include any supports needed
for the individual’s success,
such as housing, substance abuse treatment,
legal help, mental health counseling,
or job training,
as well as an agreement about
regular check-ins.
Documentation of meetings and activities
is a significant part of the job.
As a probation officer or
correctional treatment specialist,
you can expect to encounter visits
to hostile environments,
strict court-imposed deadlines,
and the frustration of seeing
some of your clients violate the terms
of their release.
State and local government facilities
employ the majority of these workers,
where on-call shifts may be required
in addition to full-time work.
Typically, a bachelor’s degree in a related field
such as criminal justice or social work,
is required.
Extensive training on the job is provided.
Candidates must pass competency tests,
drug tests, and a criminal background check.
In this field,
you must be both strong and compassionate,
to help your clients build a better future.