Pretrial/Misdemeanor Probation Officer

Ravalli County•Hamilton, MT

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Misdemeanor Probation Officer (MPO) shall monitor and clearly document all Misdemeanor Supervision functions of Ravalli County, adhering to RCSO Policy and Procedures with professional judgment. The MPO will provide firm, fair, and consistent misdemeanor services in a team setting that supports a crime-free lifestyle. This role is accountable to the Jail Diversion Administrator, Undersheriff, and Sheriff.

Requirements

Knowledge of pertinent federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing apprehension, arrest, and custody of persons accused of offenses.
Knowledge of use of firearms and other modern police equipment.
Knowledge of methods and techniques used in interviewing witnesses, victims, or suspects.
Knowledge of principles and applications of public relations.
Knowledge of English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Knowledge of basic principles of report preparation.
Knowledge of the geography of the County.
Knowledge of standard broadcasting procedures of a police radio system.
Ability to relate with offenders in a firm, empathetic fashion and possess good interaction skills.
Ability to relate with referral agencies and handle public relations responsibilities.
Good writing and verbal skills.
Type 40 words per minute.
Experience and demonstrated ability in records management.
Ability to organize, manage time effectively, and keep records orderly and up to date.
Ability to work in a team environment with a positive attitude.
Ability to interpret and explain County law enforcement policies and procedures.
Ability to think clearly and act quickly in a variety of situations.
Ability to assess situations/people accurately.
Ability to effectively use and qualify with law enforcement tools and weapons including firearms and other safety equipment.
Ability to operate specialized law enforcement equipment including specialized police vehicles and radios.
Ability to gather, assemble, analyze, evaluate, and use facts and evidence.
Ability to apply interview techniques.
Ability to accurately observe and remember names, faces, numbers, incidents, and places.
Ability to control violent people and affect arrests.
Ability to prepare clear and concise reports and routine correspondence.
Ability to maintain contact and preserve good relations with the public.
Ability to work independently in the absence of supervision.
Ability to understand and carry out oral and written directions.
Ability to work irregular and on-call hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
Ability to meet and maintain the Sheriff’s Office firearms qualifications standards.
Ability to meet office background requirements.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Pass oral interview and background investigation.
Must satisfactorily complete the Misdemeanor Probation Officer basic training at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy as provided in 44-4-301 (Must obtain within one year of hire).
Meet minimum requirements as set forth by Montana State Statutes.
Possession of a valid Montana driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice or other combination of experience and education that meet the minimum requirements.
Experience in correction system.
Direct public relations experience.
Experience in computer database management and word processing.

Responsibilities

Monitor court mandates placed on offenders.
Act as a referral agent to offenders in need of assistance.
Complete thorough intakes, documenting demographic, employment, identification information, and Court mandates in the agency database.
Complete Releases of Information, Risk Assessments, and Probation Contracts.
Track all fees for clients and work with referral sources regarding non-payment.
Coordinate with LAC’s and other agencies to schedule Intervention Hearings for clients with positive UA or BA.
Provide court testimony regarding progress notes and/or offender non-compliance, making recommendations.
Investigate alleged violations and coordinate arrest and detention when necessary.
Write reports of violation and affidavits of violation.
Maintain risk-assessed levels of supervision, documenting supervision plans and phases.
Complete cross-training in technologies such as SCRAM CAM, SCRAM Remote Breath, SCRAM GPS, Drug Patch, and Urinalysis Testing.
Contact employers, trainers, teachers, and supervisors to verify offender attendance, pay scales, work schedules, and performance.
Search an offender’s person and property during home visitations as required.
Keep accurate documentation and concise notes of meetings, community contacts, testing, and instructions.
Assist in maintaining a referral mechanism with courts and professional relationships with legal correctional services.
Maintain documentation of all activities using the agency database.
Complete certification in the use of the X26 Taser and maintain annual recertification.
Complete monthly treatment updates on offenders in treatment with other agencies.
Attend Court arraignments, open Court, hearings, and advisory meetings.
Act as Probation Officer after hours on call on a rotating schedule.
Inform supervisor of significant developments related to supervision, including resident involvement in the legal system, violations, threats of legal action, public relations issues, resident complaints, fraternization issues, medical incidents/accidents, and suspected/confirmed violations of agency rules.
Report noncompliance with program procedures and suggest remedial plans or interventions.
Be flexible in assuming new duties and schedule changes.
Be creative in establishing or modifying program operation procedures and obtaining approval before implementation.