Under the direction of a Deputy Probation Officer to perform a variety of basic casework support duties for the Probation Department and to perform related duties as required.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This position is a para-professional class for probation. Incumbents work initially under close supervision and receive on-the-job training in basic casework management for the purpose of assisting a Deputy Probation Officer in performing the more routine casework duties. The Probation Assistant Class is a non-sworn position and is distinguished from the class of Deputy Probation Officer I in that the latter class is a sworn position and assigned the full range of casework duties.
IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate will have excellent time management skills; be experienced in conflict resolution and de-escalation; and be self-motivated. To be successful in this role, an ideal candidate would display teamwork as well as problem solving, decision making and negotiation skills. Having the ability to learn and adapt to new systems will be essential in this role.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Process and transport clients according to established guidelines and procedures; process fines and other payments ordered by the court; perform follow-up duties concerning delinquent fines; perform drug testing on clients according to established procedures and guidelines; monitor minimal supervision cases; log calls and monthly reports; prepare and send Failure to Comply notices; monitor fines and other payments; interview defendants at the County Jail; submit written reports to the Court; interview and process defendants for Adult Work Program; type lists, letters, memos, and forms as required; operate standard office equipment; communicate with personnel from drug and alcohol programs and other agencies to receive and provide information concerning the status of probationers; communicate with other probation departments concerning background checks on defendants; maintain related files and records; perform related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Any combination of education and experience sufficient to directly demonstrate possession and application of the following:
Knowledge of: The basic principle affecting human behavior; basic causes of delinquency and crime; basic interviewing principles and techniques.
Ability to: Learn and apply the principles and practices of probation work and casework techniques; interview persons from diverse socio-economic, cultural and educational backgrounds and obtain confidential information in a persistent, tactful and courteous manner; learn and apply Federal and State laws and County ordinances affecting probation; use sound judgement to assess problems and reach logical conclusions; write clear, concise and objective reports; establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, staff and others; gather and analyze investigative materials; orally present and explain facts and situations clearly; learn to manage assigned caseload and to establish caseload priorities to meet legal and departmental requirements; learn to use community resources; learn to perform drug testing procedures; prepare and maintain accurate records, case files and statistical reports; learn to input, access and analyze data using a computer.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
It is the responsibility of applicants to identify in their application materials how they meet the minimum qualifications listed below.
EITHER
Completion of 60 units from an accredited college or university with coursework in psychology, sociology, criminal justice, social work, or other behavioral science;
OR
Two (2) years of experience either working in a Probation Department or performing duties involving the supervision, care, or leadership of juveniles or adults.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Possession of a valid California driver’s license.
