Job Details for U.S. Probation Officer

To be considered for the position, candidates must possess at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a field of academic study such as criminal justice, criminology, psychology, sociology, human relations, business, public administration, English, or pre-law which provides evidence of the capacity to understand and apply the legal requirements and human relation skills involved in the work of the position of probation officer. Two years specialized experience is preferred. Specialized experience is progressively responsible experience, gained after completion of a bachelor’s degree, in such fields as probation, pretrial services, parole, corrections, criminal investigation, or work in substance/addiction treatment, law or teaching. Experience as a police officer, custodial or security officer, other than any criminal investigative experience, is not creditable.

Required Special Skills

Incumbent must have solid analytical skills; excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to organize, oversee, and complete multiple projects simultaneously; and the ability to maintain confidentiality and work harmoniously with others. Computer skills including a working knowledge of computer software such as Windows, Word and Outlook and the ability to type and use a scanner are required.

Physical Requirements and Maximum Age of Entry

The duties of probation officers require the investigation and management of alleged criminal defendants and convicted offenders who present physical danger to officers and to the public. In the supervision, treatment, and control of these offenders, these duties require moderate to arduous physical exercise, including prolonged periods of walking and standing, physical dexterity and coordination to operate a firearm, and use of self-defense tactics. On a daily basis, these officers face unusual mental and physical stress because they are subject to danger and possible harm during frequent, direct contact with individuals who are suspected or convicted of committing federal offenses.

Because officers must effectively deal with physical attacks and are subject to moderate to arduous physical exertion, applicants must be physically capable of efficiently performing these duties. Officers must possess, with or without corrective lenses, good distance vision in at least one eye and the ability to read normal size print. Normal hearing ability, with or without a hearing aid, is also required.

In most instances, the amputation of an arm, hand, leg, or foot will not disqualify an applicant from appointment; however, severe health problems or physical defects that constitute employment hazards to the applicant or others may disqualify an applicant.

First time appointees to positions covered under law enforcement officer retirement provisions must not have reached their 37th birthday at the time of the appointment. Applicants 37 and older who have previous law enforcement experience under the Civil Service Retirement System or the Federal Employees Retirement System and who have either a subsequent break in service or intervening service in a non-law enforcement officer position may have their previous law enforcement officer experience subtracted from their age to determine whether they meet the maximum age requirement.