Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more

Education Required
A bachelors degree in social work, criminal justice, behavioral sciences, or a related field is usually required. Requirements vary by jurisdiction.
Training Required
Most probation officers and correctional treatment specialists must complete a training program sponsored by their state government or the federal government, after which they may have to pass a certification test. In addition, they may be required to work as trainees for up to 1 year before being offered a permanent position.
Job Outlook
The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 6% (As fast as average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.)
Advancement
Advancement to supervisory positions is primarily based on experience and performance. A masters degree in criminal justice, social work, or psychology may be required for advancement.
Median pay: How much do Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists make?
$50,160 Annual Salary
$24.12 per hour

Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists provide social services to assist in rehabilitation of law offenders in custody or on probation or parole.

What do Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists do?

Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists typically do the following:

  • Interview with probationers and parolees, their friends, and their relatives in an office or at a residence to assess progress
  • Evaluate probationers and parolees to determine the best course of rehabilitation
  • Provide probationers and parolees with resources, such as job training
  • Test offenders for drugs and offer substance abuse counseling
  • Complete prehearing investigations and testify in court regarding offenders backgrounds
  • Write reports and maintain case files on offenders

The following are examples of types of probation officers and correctional treatment specialists:

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