Juvenile probation officers across Idaho play a key role in the education of young offenders – teaching them how to become responsible members of the community. Currently 28 percent of Idaho’s population is comprised of juveniles, and between 1996 and 2012, the juvenile arrest rate has decreased by 38 percent.
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Juvenile probation officers deserve some credit for this rate of decrease. These officers provide juvenile offenders opportunities for jobs, community service, professional counseling, and education, giving them a chance to find their place in society, and holding them accountable to the conditions of their probation.
Education and Training Requirements for Juvenile Probation Officers
The State of Idaho requires applicants for juvenile probation officer jobs to have at least a high school diploma. Other education requirements may exist depending on the jurisdiction. Being bilingual or having a bachelor’s degree in subjects such as psychology, social work, and criminal justice can increase a candidate’s standing.
No previous experience is required, and those hired will receive extensive training and on-the-job instruction. This begins with a three-week juvenile probation training academy sponsored by the Idaho Peace Officer Standards and Training Council. Juvenile probation officers are also required to complete at least 20 hours of continuing education and training each year.
How to Apply for Juvenile Probation Officer Jobs in Idaho
Candidates can apply for juvenile probation officer jobs when they become available on the State’s jobs and careers website. Applicants can also fill out a job notification card that will automatically generate an email notifying candidates when vacancies occur. Applications must be filled out completely and legibly, and include all required paperwork. Candidates should also return their applications by the closing date of the position.
Other Requirements
Careers as juvenile probation officers begin when candidates apply for open positions and can meet all minimum requirements. These include:
- No felony or domestic violence convictions
- Eligibility to work in the United States
- Able to pass a drug test, background check, and medical physical
- Upstanding moral citizen
- Willing and able to perform job duties:
- Act as a bridge between the offender, criminal justice system, and community
- Direct offenders to appropriate community resources
- Develop rehabilitation plans with juvenile offenders
- Report and document juvenile offender probation violations
- Ensure juvenile offenders meet their obligatory appointments:
- Mental health sessions
- Drug and alcohol therapy
- Attendance of school, work, or community service programs
Idaho Juvenile Corrections Act
In 1995 the State of Idaho passed the Juvenile Corrections Act. This has been credited with creating improved services for juvenile offenders across the state, leading to a lower rate of recidivism and a standardization of support services. Juvenile probation officers work each day to accomplish the goals of the Juvenile Corrections Act:
- Increase the safety of local communities
- Improve the lives and future prospects of juveniles who enter the criminal justice system
- Hold accountable those juvenile offenders who decide to break the law