Job Details for U.S. Probation Officer

Representative Duties and Responsibilities
The U.S. Probation Officer, under the general supervision of the Chief Probation Officer or Supervisory Probation Officer, conducts investigations, makes recommendations to the Court for sentencing of individuals convicted of federal offenses, and supervises individuals who are sentenced to probation and/or released from federal/military prison.

In preparing reports for sentencing, the officer investigates the offense as well as the client's background. The preparation of these reports requires interviewing clients and their families, investigating the offense of conviction, prior record, and financial status of the client; other contacts may include, but are not limited to, the home and neighborhood, law enforcement agencies, attorneys, victims of crimes, schools, and other civic and community agencies. An integral part of this process is the interpretation and application of the U.S. Sentencing Commission guidelines and relevant case law. Following disclosure of the report, the officer analyzes any objections and determines an appropriate course of action, including resolving disputed issues and/or presenting unresolved issues to the Court. The officer serves as a resource to the Court to facilitate proper imposition of sentence.

The supervision officer encourages the rehabilitation of individuals under supervision (IUS) by monitoring their compliance with court-imposed conditions of supervision and implementing evidenced based supervision strategies. Supervision activities include, but are not limited to, assessing criminogenic needs, monitoring individuals in the community, investigating and reporting noncompliance, and encouraging a law-abiding lifestyle. The officer monitors the individual's employment, living circumstances, social networks, and thinking patterns. Additionally, the officer identifies addiction or mental health needs and makes appropriate treatment referrals. The officer engages the IUS at the residence, employment, and community; and collaborates with treatment providers, local law enforcement, community members and the Court to hold the IUS accountable for living a law-abiding lifestyle and complying with the conditions imposed by the Court. The officer reinforces positive change of the IUS and helps the IUS identify and remove obstacles that hinder success. When necessary, the officer notifies the Court of noncompliance and recommends appropriate sanctions or modifications to the conditions of supervision.