Chief of Probation / Chief Bailiff - Juvenile Division

Ottawa County • Ottawa County, OH

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Ottawa County Court of Common Pleas, Juvenile Division, is seeking a Chief of Probation / Chief Bailiff to lead and oversee the daily operations of the Juvenile Probation Department and coordinate courtroom security and safety responsibilities. The Chief works closely with the Court Administrator, judicial officers, probation staff, and community partners to promote effective supervision, youth accountability, and public safety.

The role requires an organized and dependable leader with sound judgment and strong communication skills who can balance staff supervision, case management oversight, and the changing needs of a juvenile court. The position is based in Port Clinton, Ohio, is full-time, unclassified, and FLSA exempt, and generally follows a Monday–Friday, 40-hour schedule. Flexibility is required, including occasional evenings, weekends, and after-hours emergencies. The position does not earn overtime or compensatory time.

The salary range is $72,800–$83,200 annually, based on qualifications. Applicants must submit a completed Ottawa County Employment Application, a current resume, and a cover letter describing relevant experience, leadership and supervisory skills, and interest in working with court-involved youth. The application deadline is Friday, November 20, 2026.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, social work, psychology, public administration, or a related field.
• At least four years of experience in probation, corrections, juvenile justice, or closely related community supervision or court services.
• Demonstrated leadership or supervisory abilities, sound professional judgment, and strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to interpret and apply Court orders, policies, procedures, and confidentiality requirements.
• Valid Ohio driver's license and ability to travel as required.
• Successful completion of required background screening, pre-employment drug testing, and motor vehicle record review.
• Ability to respond flexibly to departmental and Court needs, including occasional evenings, weekends, and after-hours emergencies.
• Applicants must submit a completed Ottawa County Employment Application, current resume, and cover letter.

Nice To Haves

• Previous supervisory experience in juvenile probation or court operations.
• Familiarity with Ohio juvenile court procedures, evidence-based supervision practices, case-management systems, and courtroom security operations.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily leadership, supervision, training, and guidance to juvenile probation staff.
• Oversee case assignments, supervision practices, assessments, and compliance with Court orders and departmental policies.
• Review case documentation, court reports, probation violations, and staff performance to ensure accuracy, consistency, and accountability.
• Coordinate staff schedules, caseload coverage, and after-hours on-call responsibilities.
• Support implementation of evidence-based, trauma-informed, and developmentally appropriate juvenile supervision practices.
• Assist with high-risk or complex cases and provide direct probation services when operationally necessary.
• Coordinate courtroom security planning, emergency response procedures, and facility safety measures.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, schools, service providers, and community agencies to support youth and families.
• Participate in staff evaluations, hiring, professional development, and departmental improvement initiatives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager