Probation Officer Job Description

What is the job description of a Probation Officer? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Probation Officer? What does a Probation Officer do?

Job description of a Probation Officer

Probation officers are social workers/court officers usually employed by the Prison Service to supervise offenders and released prisoners in the community and to help them lead law-abiding lives. Working with offenders or ex-offenders who have emotional, behavioural or psychological problems can make the job stressful and demanding. However, helping people better themselves can be a particularly rewarding role.

This Probation Officer job description example includes the list of most important Probation Officer duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Probation Officer profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Probation Officer Duties and Responsibilities

Probation Officer job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Supervising junior staff
  • Helping with the rehabilitation of ex-offenders into the community
  • Organising and overseeing community service work
  • ‘Befriending’ and counselling offenders and their families
  • Helping offenders come to terms with custodial sentences
  • Undertaking one-to-one and group work activities
  • Visiting offenders at home, in court, prison, hostels or other penal institutions
  • Supporting the victims of some violent or sexual crimes
  • Liaising with the police, social services etc.

Probation Officer Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Probation Officer job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • Degree in criminology, sociology, criminal justice or a related field required.
  • Previous experience in case management, law enforcement or probation.
  • Strong time and stress management skills.
  • Good interpersonal and decision-making skills.
  • Good critical thinking skills and social perceptiveness.
  • Ability to manage multiple cases.
  • Excellent communication and listening skills.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Probation Officer starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Probation Officer job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Probation Officer may also reference it in preparation for the interview.