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What is a probation and parole officer and how to become one
A probation and parole officer is a government-appointed official that is responsible for overseeing convicted offenders on probation. Some offenders are released from prison on probation after they've served only a part of their sentences. The aim of this is to guide offenders back into living as law-abiding citizens in society while also reducing the possibility that they will commit another offense.
Therefore, the probation and parole officer checks in with the assigned offender from time to time. They will ensure that this person adheres to the conditions of their probation or parole.
Since a parole officer's role can include working closely with violent offenders, it can be a dangerous job. They sometimes have to visit these offenders at home to carry out inspections. That is why not everyone is fit for this role. You must have a degree in psychology, criminal justice, or corrections to be a probation and payroll officer.
Avg. Salary $46,271
Avg. Salary $59,228
American Indian and Alaska Native 1.04%
Asian 1.88%
Black or African American 12.90%
Hispanic or Latino 15.36%
Unknown 2.81%
White 66.01%
Genderfemale 53.40%
male 46.60%
Age - 44American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 44Stress level is very high
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is excellent
6.4 - fair
Probation and parole officer career paths
Key steps to become a probation and parole officer
Explore probation and parole officer education requirements
Start to develop specific probation and parole officer skills
Skills Percentages Social Work 22.89% Criminal Justice 12.40% Rehabilitation 6.37% Mental Health 4.63% Community Resources 4.40% Complete relevant probation and parole officer training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 6-12 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New probation and parole officers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a probation and parole officer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real probation and parole officer resumes.Research probation and parole officer duties and responsibilities
- Interview probationers/parolees regularly to evaluate their progress in accomplishing goals and maintaining terms specify in their rehabilitation plans while maintaining documentation.
- Monitor violent offenders place on both active and passive GPS restrictions throughout all of Delaware.
- Utilize GPS tracking and alcohol monitoring devices to monitor offender compliance.
- Develop and implement extensive case management plans to continue the rehabilitation process and work towards successful completion of probation.
Prepare your probation and parole officer resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your probation and parole officer resume.
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Apply for probation and parole officer jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a probation and parole officer job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
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Average probation and parole officer salary
The average probation and parole officer salary in the United States is $46,271 per year or $22 per hour. Probation and parole officer salaries range between $30,000 and $69,000 per year.
What am I worth?
How do probation and parole officers rate their job?
Probation and parole officer reviews
Working alongside parole officers and LE.. Casemanager style. Pay Training .
Long hrs. Endless report writing. Local county jail refused to take in arrest offenders .
Updated January 8, 2025
