Community Probation & Parole Officer

Berks County PA; Reading (Berks County); On-site; USD 52,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Berks County is seeking a Probation/Parole Officer to enforce court orders and supervise offenders under various conditions. You will assess risk, develop case plans, and coordinate services to promote long-term behavior change while ensuring community safety and accountability.

The role requires firearm certification within 18 months, psychological fitness screening, and flexibility to work outside normal hours. Travel across Berks County is involved.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED from a recognized issuer.
• Bachelor’s degree with at least 18 credits in behavioral or social science.
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Valid state-issued driver's license with proof of auto insurance and access to a vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Supervise offenders through a variety of contacts (office, home, field, employment) with collateral contacts.
• Document case-related contacts and generate reports promptly; maintain progress reports.
• Assess risk and needs; develop case plans aligned with risk level.
• Refer offenders to treatment agencies and maintain professional relationships with other agencies.
• Use motivational interviewing to enhance motivation for change.
• Apply cognitive-behavioral techniques to change behavior and build skills.
• Reward positive behavior and address negative behavior with graduated responses.
• Familiarize with community resources to support offenders and families.
• Monitor compliance: drug testing, treatment, electronic monitoring; issue warrants if needed.
• Represent the department in court and testify when required.
• Assist in apprehension/transportation of non-compliant offenders if trained.
• Meet 40 hours of annual training and mentor new officers.
• Provide intake for newly sentenced offenders and prepare pre-sentencing reports.

Skills

Investigation techniques

Supervision

Motivational interviewing

Written communication

Public speaking

Spanish (preferred)

Criminal behavior knowledge

Stress management

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor's degree with 18 credits in behavioral or social science

Relevant experience and training equivalence

Tools

Computer software proficiency

Job description

Berks County is seeking a Probation/Parole Officer to enforce court orders and supervise offenders under various conditions. You will assess risk, develop case plans, and coordinate services to promote long-term behavior change while ensuring community safety and accountability.

The role requires firearm certification within 18 months, psychological fitness screening, and flexibility to work outside normal hours. Travel across Berks County is involved.