The Job of a Probation Officer

The Probation Officer plays a pivotal role in carrying out the work of the Court and furthering the primary mission of Probation Services to ensure the safety and protection of the community, uphold individual accountability, and aid in individual rehabilitation. More specifically, this position is responsible for enforcing Court orders and assuring individuals compliance with conditions of sentencing, diversionary program participation, and parole, while at all times protecting public safety. This includes prevention of further criminal acts and technical violations and assistance with and promotion of positive change for individuals residing in or returning to the community. 

Probation Officers are expected to supervise individuals both in the office and in the field, based on the level of assigned supervision or need. The Probation Officer works closely with other members of the Probation Services Department team, as well as with other County and Court departments and staff, to assure that individuals’ resource needs are being met. The Probation Officer must be able to build rapport with others and to interact effectively and cooperatively with law enforcement and human services agency/treatment personnel. Excellent communication skills are thus essential. The Probation Officer also attends and provides testimony during hearings and other Court proceedings. Upon gaining knowledge and expertise, the Probation Officer may be assigned to perform mentoring, training, educational and leadership tasks within the Department.

 This is a peace officer classification; the Probation Officer has powers of arrest for supervised individuals under the jurisdiction of the Adams County Court of Common Pleas. There is a potential risk of physical injury and/or death associated with the work of the Probation Services Department. The Probation Officer may carry an approved, office-issued firearm upon satisfactory completion of the established Pennsylvania County Probation Officers Firearm Commission course and receipt of certification. Completion of any required subsequent courses to retain certification is also required. It should be noted that those who carry a firearm assume an immense responsibility that must be taken very seriously. 

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Internship Program

Probation Officer Interns become educated on aspects of the Department of Probation Services through the shadowing of Probation Officers and general training opportunities. The education, training and observation shall encompass arrest procedures and processes, office visits, field contacts, Court, drug testing, evidence-based practices overview on the use of assessment tools, case planning, and motivational interviewing.

The work may include interaction with the Courts, Court Administration, Domestic Relations, Clerk of Courts, District Attorney’s Office, Children and Youth Services, Local Law Enforcement and many community agencies that assist in providing the services and resources necessary for the success of the supervised individual.