Assistant Probation Officer

Job Summary

This is a paraprofessional position responsible for providing probation supervision to low risk offenders and for assisting Probation Officers in coordinating and monitoring court ordered conditions on clients referred by the First Judicial District Courts. The work is performed in an office or in the field, as required.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Manages and provides direct services to low-risk adult offenders to monitor compliance with court-ordered probation.
• Prepares reports (e.g., progress, violation, discharge, transfer, etc.) and submits to court.
• Monitors testing results of offenders.
• Communicates via phone and in person, answers questions, reviewed court-ordered probation conditions, and assists offenders in setting up plans to complete orders.
• Coordinates Minnesota Association of Restitution Services (MARS) referrals to other counties.
• Monitors compliance with court-ordered conditions such as restitution, STS/community work service, fines, educational classes, chemical dependency treatment, Electric Home Monitoring, and any other conditions ordered by the court.
• Monitors Adult court ordered conditions of conditional release.
• Manages and maintains offender records.
• Assesses offenders needs, including those of literacy, language, and culture, to ensure effective communication and comprehension.
• Works the hours and/or shifts assigned and begins and ends work on time.
• Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Requires equivalency of a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, corrections, sociology, social work, psychology, behavioral science, or related field. The ability to establish and maintain working relationships with a variety of people is essential. Excellent communication and organizational skills are a must. The incumbent shall provide a valid driver's license and a reliable means of transportation for the performance of work responsibilities.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATION(S)

Community based probation experience preferred

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The employee is under the general supervision of a Community Corrections Supervisor. Work is performed according to established procedures and/or verbal/written instructions; however, discretion, independence, and judgment are required. Work is occasionally reviewed by the supervisor for accuracy and adherence to office procedures.

CORE COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES

Customer Service - Delivers government services in a respectful, responsive, and solution-oriented manner.

Communication - Is always clear about what we're doing and why we're doing it.

Collaboration - Works with partners – communities, schools, faith groups, private business, and non-profit agencies – to see that services are not duplicated but rather are complimentary, aligned, and provided by the partners who can deliver the service most effectively.

Stewardship - Works proactively to make investments, guided by resident input, which will transform lives, communities, and government.

Empowerment - Works with individuals and families to affirm strengths, develop skills, restore hope, and promote self-reliance.

Resiliency - Fosters public preparedness and responds when families and communities face health and safety emergencies.

Innovation - Takes informed risks to deliver services more effectively and learns from successes and failures.

Knowledge – Knowledge of policies, practices, and services of the organization.

Knowledge of the community and community resources available.

Abilities – Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, victims, employees, criminal justice agencies, and the public.

Ability to maintain confidentiality of related records and file information.

Ability to organize information with detailed documentation.

Ability to speak, present, and interact in public arenas with composure, professionalism, and discretion.

Ability to use MS Office software for the performance of essential duties.

Ability to use appropriate discretion in dealing with matters of a confidential nature.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Typical characteristics of the regular, ongoing work environment of this position requires inside work, typically in an office setting. Clients may present behaviors such as hostility, anger, or aggression, and this position may be dangerous at such times. During the course of work, incumbents may at risk for exposure to bodily fluids and the blood borne issues associated with them.

Physical activities include sedentary to light work: Reaching, sitting, standing, walking, pushing, lifting, pulling, fingering, grasping, feeling, stooping, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions. Lifts and/or navigates up to 35 pounds on a routine basis in handling files and equipment necessary for performing the essential duties of the job.

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection for this position will be based on a minimum qualifications screening and rating of training and experience. Top candidates will be forwarded to hiring manager or supervisor for consideration for interview and/or additional assessments. Final selection will include a background check and approval by the County Board.