Probation and parole officers in Bristol County work under the supervision and coordination of the State of Rhode Island Department of Corrections, the Division of Rehabilitative Services and the Adult Parole and Probation department. There are eight field offices in Rhode Island, one of which is designated as the South/ Bristol County Regional Office (Wakefield).
Sponsored School(s)
Probation and parole officer jobs in Bristol County include positions as a correctional officer, administrative jobs, and other positions that require additional training to the basic training for a correctional officer position. In order to become a probation and parole officer in the Bristol County, there are a series of steps an applicant must complete.
Educational Requirements in Bristol County
Probation and parole officer careers in Bristol County require a basic set of educational requirements. Applicants must have a high school diploma or a GED or an equivalent level of educational experience. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in related fields, such as criminal justice, psychology and social work will receive preferential treatment within the program, as will applicants with related work experience.
Other minimum basic requirements include the following:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be a United States citizen
- Must be fluent in English
- Must pass a background check
Applying and Taking the Civil Service Examination
In order to enter the training academy as a Bristol County probation and parole officer, candidates interested in the job must complete an application and pass the Civil Service Examination. The application goes over basic experience, education and personal history.
If basic requirements and education are met, then the applicant is responsible for taking the Civil Service Examination and passing it. The Civil Service Exam is a written test that is required of all employees seeking work with a government organization in Rhode Island.
Training Academy Eligibility
When considering how to become a probation and parole office in Bristol County, applicants must meet the physical fitness standards and complete training at the Rhode Island Police Academy. The physical fitness standards require applicants to complete a certain set of push-ups, sit-ups, a 300-meter sprint, a sit-and-reach test and a 1.5 mile run. The set number of exercises one must complete is dependent on age.
Prior to entrance in the academy, applicants must also pass a background check, a psychological exam, an interview with the Director’s Interview Board, a medical check and a drug screening. In total, the training academy will take a total of nine weeks and includes training courses in:
- Public safety
- Defensive tactics
- Communication skills
- Weapons
- CPR certification