Parole officers in Colorado, who work through the Colorado Department of Corrections, Division of Adult Parole, Community Corrections and Youthful Offender System, supervise an average daily population of 8,774 parolees.
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Parole officers supervise individuals on regular adult parole, the Interstate Compact (probation and parole), and the Intensive Supervision Program-Parole (high-risk population), About 2,000 parolees are supervised under the Interstate Compact, and about 1,377 parolees are enrolled in the Intensive Supervision Parole program.
Qualifications for Colorado Parole Officer Careers in Colorado
To qualify for Colorado parole officer jobs, candidates must possess, at a minimum, a bachelor’s degree in human behavior, business, criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field from an accredited college or university.
However, candidates with experience in counseling, social work or law enforcement may substitute their experience, year-for-year, for a bachelor’s degree.
Individuals must also possess a Colorado Peace Officers Standards Training (POST) Certificate or POST letter of conditional appointment.
Preferred Competencies for Parole officer Careers in Colorado
Individuals applying for parole officer careers must possess a key number of competencies, including written and communication skills, weapons qualification and skills, and physical agility. Individuals should also be familiar with computer systems and technology and be qualified to work with offenders, in investigatory and supervisory law enforcement, and in high-stress situations.
Training Requirements for Parole Officers in Colorado
Individuals who want to learn how to become a parole officer must be able to successfully complete the Department of Corrections Basic Training Academy/RECLA Training upon being hired. They must also expect to undergo an initial drug screening and then random drug screening throughout their employment.
Parole officers must also complete firearms training and self-defense training classes, and all officers are required to complete at least 40 hours of professional development, as well as maintain their firearms qualifications and self-defense and CPR certificates, annually.