Probation Officer 1 (OPEN & PROMOTIONAL)

Spokane County; United States; On-site; USD 57,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Spokane County District Court Probation Division is seeking a Regular employee to perform investigative, counseling, and case management duties for adults on probation. The role emphasizes independent judgment and adherence to court policies.

The incumbent develops case histories, reviews records, and provides sentencing recommendations; collaborates with treatment providers and community agencies to support probationers and ensure compliance with conditions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Social Work, Sociology or Psychology.
• 1 year of experience in casework, probation, counseling, investigation or related field preferred.
• Must pass criminal background check and complete Adult Services Academy within 6 months.

Responsibilities

• Conduct intake interviews and provide orientation for new offenders; develop case histories and probation agreements.
• Write evaluation and pre-sentence investigation reports with background data and recommendations.
• Monitor compliance with court-ordered conditions and coordinate with treatment providers.
• Participate in court hearings, provide testimony, and present documentation and recommendations.
• Maintain detailed records and produce related reports and statistics.

Skills

Investigation skills

Counseling

Court communications

Case management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Social Work, Sociology or Psychology

Job description

Job Summary

Employee Type: Regular Department: District Court Probation

Salary: $57,291.00 - $79,794.00 Annually / $4,774.25 - $6,649.50 Monthly / $29.38 - $40.92 Hourly

Scheduled Weekly Hours: 37.5 Overtime Eligible: Yes

Priority consideration will be given in accordance with the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement or County Policy. NOTE: This recruitment may be used to fill up to two (2) vacancies working 37.5 hours per week. The position allocated to this class performs investigative, counseling and case management duties for the Spokane County District Court- Probation Division. The incumbent develops and presents case histories and makes recommendations to the Court regarding adult inmates; monitors, oversees, counsels and assesses needs and progress of adult offenders on probation or in a confinement setting. Work is performed with considerable independence, involving discretionary judgment and responsibility. Work is assigned by and performed under the general direction of the District Court Probation/DUI Court Manager (or designee) and evaluated through observation, casework review, and review of results as they reflect the employee’s professional proficiency, effective application of independent judgment, attainment of the probation division’s goals and objectives and compliance with the Court’s policies, procedures and practices.

Job Description

• Conducts intake interviews and provides orientation for new offenders, reviews records and consults with other professionals to complete investigation reports, develops case histories and probation agreements; develops case management plans, and monitors compliance with court ordered conditions.
• Writes evaluation and/or pre-sentence investigation reports containing summary background data gathered in probationer interviews and collateral contacts; identifies and assesses problem areas, and may provide treatment and sentencing recommendations to the court.
• Writes Return to Court letters based on non-compliance.
• Monitors Drug/Alcohol Testing done by an outside agency.
• Monitors and enforces court orders, programs, and other probation requirements.
• Responds to non-compliance by coordinating with treatment providers, and notifying the court by submitting supporting documents and reports.
• May be required to make recommendations for revocation of probation requirements.
• Participates in court hearings by providing testimony, preparing and presenting documentation and making recommendations to the Court.
• May provide sentencing recommendations, including level and duration of supervision, treatment recommendations, conditions of probation, etc.
• Maintains detailed records, notes, and files within the department’s case management system and prepares related reports, statistics and other documents.
• Counsels and supports offenders to help them understand and resolve their challenges; assists in resolving emergency situations; refers probationers to local support networks, including treatment providers and community agencies.
• Coordinates with other agencies and jurisdictions, including law enforcement and treatment providers, to monitor activities and progress of probationers’ court orders.
• Responds to verbal and written requests for information from other departments and agencies.
• Serves as a back-up instructor for the Adult Defensive Driving Course.
• Performs other related duties as required/assigned.

Education and Experience Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Criminal Justice, Social Work, Sociology or Psychology, and One (1) year of experience in casework, probation, counseling, investigation or a related field is preferred.

NOTE: Must successfully pass a criminal background check. Per RCW 43.101.220, must complete the Adult Services Academy within six (6) months of hire, or when class is made available. Possession of a valid driver's License at time of hire and for the duration of employment, or the ability to provide suitable transportation which is approved by the County.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of the adult criminal justice system.
• Knowledge of individual and group behavior applicable to the probation field.
• Knowledge of probation philosophy, methods and practices.
• Knowledge of counseling and interviewing skills, techniques and methods.
• Knowledge of report writing techniques.
• Knowledge of the literature, development, and trends in the field of adult probation.
• Knowledge of support agencies and community resources.
• Skilled in communicating effectively both orally and in writing, sufficient to exchange or convey information and to give and receive work direction.
• Skilled in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with staff, community and social agencies, general public, court and department supervisors.
• Skilled in the use of personal computers.
• Skilled in databases/statistics.
• Ability to counsel and support probationers.
• Ability to understand, interpret and apply complex statutes, court regulations and rules.
• Ability to conduct thorough investigations in an impartial manner and prepare detailed case histories and reports.
• Ability to effectively work and communicate with individuals and groups from a variety of social, economic, ethnic and racial backgrounds.
• Ability to convey a professional image via attire and demeanor.
• Ability to consistently make effective decisions.
• Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.

Behavioral Standards

All County employees are responsible for contributing to a safe and positive work environment, actively demonstrating the County values in their daily work and interactions: Respect: Appreciating and valuing customers, other County employees and County leadership by showing courtesy, friendliness and fairness. Communicating in a productive and professional manner. Accountability: Honoring and delivering on commitments by taking responsibility for personal actions and results; being a responsible steward of public resources and the trust County residents have placed in each of us. Integrity: Modelling transparent and ethical behavior and demonstrating it with honest and trustworthy behaviours and actions; leading by example and performing work to the highest standards. Innovation: Striving for excellence by actively pursuing opportunities for new and improved methods, procedures or technologies; fostering an environment of engagement and empowerment and embracing continuous improvement.

Working Conditions

The work environment is primarily inside, where the noise and temperature levels are moderate.

Total Compensation

Total Compensation: $73,332 - $102,136 Annually Total compensation is an estimate based upon base compensation, median retirement fund contributions, and current employer-paid health and related benefit contribution rates (including medical, dental, life insurance, long term disability, and leave). The actual total will vary depending upon each employee's enrollment choices.

Benefits

• Community Impact: Many people find fulfillment in public service, knowing their work has a positive impact on the lives of Spokane County residents. Whether through public safety, infrastructure projects, or social services, employees can make a meaningful difference in residents' lives while contributing to the overall well-being and development of the community.
• Diverse Job Opportunities: Spokane County employs a diverse workforce, offering positions in fields such as law enforcement, social services, animal control, parks and recreation, administration, and more. This diversity allows for many employment opportunities for individuals with different backgrounds and skill sets.
• Job Stability and Benefits: Spokane County offers competitive salaries and benefits packages, including healthcare, vacation time, and retirement and pension plans that provide long-term financial security for employees.
• Career Growth: There are various opportunities for career advancement within Spokane County. We invest in employee training and professional development, enhancing employees' skills and qualifications.
• Work-Life Balance: We emphasize work-life balance, with reasonable work hours and policies that support employee well-being. If you’re seeking stability and a predictable schedule, you’re in the right place!
• Inclusive Workplace Culture: Spokane County aims to foster an inclusive and supportive workplace culture, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion among its employees.

Community and Culture

Spokane is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including rivers, lakes, and nearby mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and boating. From golf course to parks and trails along the Spokane River, there's something for everyone who enjoys the outdoors.

Affordable Living: Compared to many other cities on the West Coast, Spokane has a relatively low cost of living. Housing prices are more affordable, making it easier to buy a home or rent.

Four Seasons: Spokane experiences all four seasons distinctly. Summers are warm and dry, while winters bring snowfall, making it ideal for those who enjoy seasonal variety.

Cultural Scene: The city has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Events such as the Spokane Symphony and First Friday art walks contribute to the city's cultural richness.

Community Feel: Spokane is known for its friendly and welcoming community. It has a strong sense of local pride and community involvement.

Educational Opportunities: The city is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational and cultural opportunities. This includes Gonzaga University, Washington State University Spokane, Whitworth University, and Eastern Washington University.

Healthcare Facilities: Spokane boasts excellent healthcare facilities, including Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Deaconess Hospital, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care.

Family-Friendly: With good schools, safe neighborhoods, and numerous family-oriented activities, Spokane is a great place to raise a family.

Central Location: Spokane's location in eastern Washington makes it a hub for travel throughout the Pacific Northwest. It's close to other major cities like Seattle and Portland, as well as outdoor destinations like national parks and recreation areas.

Overall, Spokane offers a balanced lifestyle with a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural amenities, and community spirit, making it a desirable place to live and work!