Alabama probation and parole officers work for the state Board of Pardons and Paroles. They monitor and counsel both criminal offenders who are on probation and those who are on parole after serving time in prison to be sure they are meeting the conditions of their sentences. Probation/parole officers schedule office meetings with offenders and also make visits to offender homes.
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The job of probation/parole officer requires clear, comprehensive report writing and record keeping. It also often entails gathering DNA via mouth swabs, collecting urine specimens and visiting low-income housing projects and/or recognized “crack houses.” These officers also conduct pre-sentencing and/or pre-parole investigations for courts with probationary power or parole boards. Probation/Parole officers in Alabama are sworn peace officers with arrest powers and therefore must be trained in the use of firearms and able to meet the minimum requirements of the Alabama Peace Officers Minimum Standards Training Act.
Basic Qualifications for Becoming a Probation/Parole Officer in Alabama
Applicants for the job of Alabama Probation/Parole must meet the following basic requirements:
- Have a valid driver’s license
- Possess a four-year degree from an accredited college/university with a major in criminal justice or a related subject. Students may apply during their last semester but must graduate before being officially hired.
- Must be willing to work irregular hours.
- Must never have been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor involving force, violence or immorality.
- Must complete a “Probation & Parole Officer Willingness Questionnaire” that consists of “yes or no” questions like, “Are you willing to work with persons who have HIV?” It is suggested that anyone who cannot answer “yes” to all 24 questions should reconsider the decision to apply.
How to Apply for a Job as Probation/Parole Officer in Alabama
Fill out an application form. Applications and questionnaires can be downloaded at www.personnel.alabama.gov or obtained from State of Alabama, Personnel Department, 64 North Union St., P.O. Box 304199, Montgomery 36130-4100; Tel. 334/242-3389. Mail or FAX the completed application and questionnaire to the Alabama Personnel Dept. at the above address (FAX: 334/242-1110) or dropped off at any Career Center Office.
Hiring Process for Probation & Parole Officers in Alabama
Persons whose applications are accepted will be scheduled for: a physical agility test, a written examination and a medical examination.
The physical agility test consists of five events:
- Pushing a stalled vehicle 15 feet (in neutral with someone in the driver’s seat).
- Climbing a six-foot fence.
- Entering a window.
- Running 25 yards and then surmounting a 6X6-inch beam suspended in the air and walking on it for 15 feet to test balancing ability.
- Dragging a 165-weight 15 feet.
Multiple choice test is given in Montgomery on the fourth Friday of each month. Reservations must be made in advance. The test is also offered on Saturdays at various statewide locations.
New hires will complete a training period in accordance with the Alabama Peace Officers Minimum Standards.
Alabama Probation and Parole Officer Salaries and Benefits
Alabama probation and parole officers earn an annual salary of $31,488.00 to $53,995.20 and are provided with health/dental insurance, a retirement plan, 13 sick days a year and paid vacations/holidays.