Juvenile probation officers (JPO) supervise youth who have been accused or convicted of crimes and are subsequently placed on probation or under protective supervision. JPOs work closely with law enforcement, social services, schools, and parents to help juveniles become successful. Probation officers who accrue experience and have an advanced degree, such as a master’s degree, may advance to the position of juvenile probation supervisor or to an administrative position. Youth probation officers typically work for the state.
Becoming a juvenile probation officer is a demanding and rewarding career. It’s also a great way to put your human services background to use and make a real difference in the lives of young people who are at risk in their communities. You’ll need not just solid academic training, but extensive experience working one-on-one with children and families.
How to become a juvenile probation officer
Becoming a juvenile probation officer is one of the best ways to prevent future crime. Juvenile probation officers provide guidance, support and structure for young people who’ve committed crimes or are at risk of doing so. If you have an interest in helping at-risk kids make better decisions and turn their lives around, then this might be the perfect job for you. Below, we’ll outline what it takes to be a juvenile probation officer:
Career Description, Duties, and Common Tasks
Juvenile probation officers’ primary task is to supervise the youth on their caseloads and ensure compliance with the court’s orders. Juvenile probation officers conduct regular visits to the juvenile’s home, school, work, and other areas of the community which the juvenile frequents. The visits may be weekly or monthly depending on the level of supervision imposed by the court. The juvenile probation officer also makes referrals to community resources for interventions for the youth and his/her parents. The JPO may conduct unannounced visits to check compliance with curfew, conduct random drug screens, and monitor the whereabouts of the juveniles on his/her caseload. In addition, if the juvenile is placed on electronic monitoring, the JPO will install the equipment, attach the monitor, and track the juvenile’s activities.
Steps for Becoming a Juvenile Probation Officer
JPOs usually work for the state, and most states require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, social work, psychology, education, or human services. Others may require a master’s degree or a number of years of experience as an adult probation officer in lieu of an advanced degree. A minimum age of 21 is usually required. If you plan on becoming a juvenile probation officer, you can expect steps similar to the ones below.
- Obtain a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in criminal justice or a related field.*
- Apply for a job as a juvenile probation officer.
- Be interviewed for the position.
- Take and pass a drug test and criminal background check.
- Be hired as a juvenile probation officer.
- Complete a state training program and pass a certification exam.**
- Work as a trainee for up to one year before becoming permanent.***
*Check with the job posting to verify the exact educational requirements.
**Not all states require this; check the particular job requirements.
***Check the particular job requirements for additional details.
Juvenile Probation Officer Job Training
Probation officers’ training depends on the agency for which they work. In Texas, for example, juvenile intake officers are required to take a 40-hour basic training course through the Correctional Management Institute of Texas. Training covers such topics as the responsibility of probation officers, how to recognize mental health issues in juveniles, legal liabilities, and case planning.
Other Helpful Skills and Experience
Candidates must possess strong communication skills, understand how to interact with adolescents, and be prepared to work with both juveniles and adults, including parents, teachers, and others with whom the juveniles come into contact. Candidates with previous experience working with children or teenagers, with juvenile offenders, or in a position evaluating young people may have an advantage in the hiring process. Juvenile probation officers must possess the skills necessary to work with at-risk youth, including:
- Being familiar with community resources
- Knowing how to develop a plan of action that will address the juvenile’s needs
- Having the ability to work with various government and social agencies
- Possessing a strong understanding of state criminal laws and the state’s juvenile code
- Being physically fit and mentally stable
