Senior Deputy Probation Officer - Department Promotional - Probation

Kern County•Bakersfield, CA

About The Position

This is a department-promotional examination for eligible Kern County Probation Department employees who have completed their initial probationary period and received an overall rating of standard or better on their most recent employee performance report. The position may require working any shift during a 24-hour period, any five days of a seven-day week, and in any assigned outlying county area. Evening work receives 5% additional pay and night work receives 7.5% additional pay. The selection process includes a qualifying computer-based job-related writing exercise and an oral examination weighted at 100%, assessing training, education, experience, interest, and personal fitness. Candidates must score at least 70% on each examination phase. If too few candidates warrant an examination, Human Resources may appraise application materials instead. Promotional examination components are administered at the scheduled date, time, and location without exception. The position requires a thorough physical and psychological evaluation. Applicants must meet applicable vision, hearing, and medical screening guidelines and be able to perform the required duties. Candidates must meet California peace officer standards, have a reputation for honesty and trustworthiness, and pass an extensive background investigation. A felony conviction is disqualifying; misdemeanor and traffic convictions are assessed individually. Appointees will be fingerprinted. A post-offer medical and drug screening may also be required at County expense. Incumbents may be required to carry firearms while on duty and pass monthly firearms qualification examinations.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree, preferably in the behavioral sciences.
Course study providing comprehensive knowledge of the criminal justice system.
Two years of experience in Probation or Parole work, including one year equivalent to Deputy Probation Officer II or Juvenile Corrections Officer III in the Kern County Probation Department.
A valid California Class C driver's license at appointment; specialized licenses may be required depending on assignment.
Ability and willingness to work any shift in a 24-hour period, any five of seven days, and in any assigned outlying county area.
Meet California peace officer standards specified in California Penal Code Section 830.5 and Government Code Sections 1029 and 1031.
Meet required vision, hearing, medical, and psychological standards and be able to perform the duties of the position.
Have a reputation for honesty and trustworthiness and pass an extensive background investigation.
Submit a copy of the qualifying degree or transcripts verifying degree conferral and supplemental criminal-justice course study by the November 2, 2026 final filing deadline.
For promotional eligibility: be a Kern County Probation Department employee who has completed the initial probationary period and received a standard-or-better rating on the last employee performance report.
Attain at least 70% on each examination phase.