Becoming a Juvenile Probation Officer: Job Description & Requirements

Are you wondering how to become a juvenile probation officer? There are four steps that you need to complete in order to successfully become a JPO.

1. Earn a bachelor's degree, and possibly a master's degree
2. Complete an internship with a local agency or correctional facility
3. Become certified as a juvenile probation officer
4. Search for a job as a JPO

Let's begin with the juvenile probation officer school requirements. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), many juvenile probation officers hold a bachelor's degree, while a master's degree can lead to promotion and advancement within an agency. Common undergraduate majors include criminal justice, psychology, sociology, social work and behavioral science. Coursework typically involves learning about social and psychological motivations behind human behavior, including criminal acts. Completion of an internship with a local agency or correctional facility can provide students with experience and could lead to increased job prospects following graduation.

Additional juvenile probation requirements include certification. Most agencies require candidates to pass oral and written tests, complete psychological and medical examinations and hold a current driver's license. New hires must complete a training program sanctioned by the federal or state government. Individuals convicted of previous felonies are typically ineligible for these jobs. Juvenile probation officers need good communication skills in order to interact with youths, as well as other social service professionals.

Although BLS data specific to juvenile probation officers isn't available, the bureau noted that employment of probation officers and correctional treatment specialists in general was expected to increase by 4% from 2019-2029. Reasons cited include state budgetary cuts leading to reduced sentences for offenders and older employees retiring. The BLS also reported that probation officers and correctional treatment specialists earned a mean annual salary of $54,290 as of May 2019.

Tasks performed by juvenile probation officers can substantially vary between jurisdictions and states. Almost all juvenile probation officers exclusively counsel youths, but those working in rural areas might work with both adults and juveniles. They might work in intake, which requires screening the case histories of youth; investigations, which involves examining the background and offenses committed by youths; or supervision, which gives them the authority to counsel and supervise youths who are sentenced to probation. Junior probation officers also might work at residential facilities, detention centers or aftercare programs to keep youths out of trouble and prevent recidivism.

In summary, juvenile probation officers monitor underage offenders, working with them to prevent future criminal activity. A bachelor's degree is the minimum to work in this field, while a master's degree could lead to advancement opportunities.

• What are some careers related to the juvenile probation officer career? Juvenile parole officers and juvenile correctional specialists are both careers that involve working with children in law enforcement. Other similar careers that do not involve working with children would include probation officer, parole officer, and correctional specialist.
• What is the procedure for applying for a job as a JPO? The specific process will vary between different employers. Generally, you will need to submit a resume and proof of age, and citizenship. You will also need to undergo a background check. If you are hired, you will go through a training program provided by your employer.
• What are some possible job titles for a career as a juvenile probation officer? In addition to juvenile probation officer and JPO, you may also be referred to as a juvenile intake officer or simply a probation officer.