Probation Officer - 39th District Court

City of Fraser, MI•Roseville, MI

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Responsible for monitoring and supervising probationers and for enforcing adherence to the Court ordered conditions of probation. Work includes conducting presentence investigations and supervising the progress of individuals who have been placed on probation. Duties involve making responsible recommendations and reporting on the progress of probationers. Work is performed under general supervision in accordance with established policies, procedures, sentencing and statutory requirements, but discretion is exercised in applying work methods and techniques.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, sociology, social work or a field related to the work.
Prior experience in court and/or probation preferred.
Michigan Driver's License.
LEIN certification.
Knowledge of techniques of investigation and situational research.
Knowledge of interviewing, teaching, behavior modification and counseling techniques.
Knowledge of principles, practices and techniques of probation services provision.
Knowledge of rules, laws, codes, regulations and procedures related to the probation process.
Knowledge of crisis intervention and counseling techniques.
Knowledge of community resources and programs available to probationers with identified needs.
Knowledge of computer applications related to the work.
Knowledge of practices and techniques of drug and alcohol testing.
Considerable knowledge of substance use disorder, drug classification and types, drug trends in the community.
Considerable knowledge of psychological, emotional, behavioral disorders, psychotropic medication and appropriate interventions.
Understanding complexities of domestic violence and its web of different forms of abuse, as well as tactics of manipulation used by batterers.
Basic knowledge of the Michigan Criminal Code.
Correct business English, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.
Oral communication skills required to maintain positive and effective working relationships with officers and staff of the Court, defense attorneys, law enforcement agencies.
Records management principles and practices with the ability to prepare clear, concise and complete case records and reports by electronic data and hardcopy.
Techniques for dealing with a variety of individuals from various socio-economic, ethnic and cultural backgrounds, in person and over the telephone, occasionally when relations may be confrontational, strained or hostile.
Ability to work under pressure, distractions and tight deadlines.
Maintaining confidentiality of probationers, files and any sensitive criminal justice system matters.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in court and/or probation

Responsibilities

Supervises an assigned caseload of probationers; enforces adherence to court ordered conditions of probation; investigates and processes probation violations and makes recommendations regarding probation violation sentencings.
Counsels and advises probationers regarding pertinent personal, social, educational, financial, vocational, and health matters; assists probationers with questions, issues and appointments.
Compiles, investigates, verifies and presents reports on personal, social, educational, financial, vocational, health and/or prior criminal history of probationers; writes and presents reports to court; develops and presents recommendations for case disposition or violation of probation.
Compiles information, analyses, and reports on activities.
Administers PBT and collects/interprets urine drug screens as needed.
Prepares pre-sentence reports for Judge and provides appropriate recommendations.
Conduct substance abuse screening interviews with defendants using state approved methodologies.
Appears and gives testimony in court regarding probation violation arraignments, probation violation hearings/sentencings and review hearings.
Identifies and develops community resources and support programs; maintains communication and liaison with law enforcement, court, social service and community resource personnel and agencies; refers clients as appropriate.
Enters information in systems and maintains a variety of records and case files; writes reports, statements, legal documents, correspondence and other written materials.
Uses a variety of standard office equipment, including a computer, in the course of the work.
Contributes to the overall quality of the Court's service provision by fostering and facilitating the development and coordination of work teams.
Communicates with government agencies, non-profits, and the public regarding coordination of programs service issues; responds concerns and issues.
Stays current on changes in laws, regulations, and trends in the profession.
Reviews reports from outside agencies that provide services to department's clients.
Assists Director of Probation with administrative issues as required.
Demonstrates courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with public and staff; acts in a manner that promotes a harmonious and effective workplace environment.
Demonstrates strong ethical judgment, establishes and maintains appropriate and consistent boundaries with probationers and others in the criminal justice system.