According to the Maine Department of Corrections, there are approximately 7,300 adult offenders under probation and parole supervision in the state.
Probation and parole services in Maine are part of the Adult Community Corrections department within Maine’s Department of Corrections. There are three, main offices (and a number of sub-offices) through which Adult Community Corrections operates: Portland, Augusta, and Bangor.
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It should be noted that, although both probation and parole programs are administered through the Adult Community Corrections department, the term “probation officer” is the only recognized professional title.
Minimum Employment Requirements for Probation and Parole Officer Careers
in Maine
Candidates must possess a Maine driver’s license to be eligible for probation and parole officer careers in Maine. Further, candidates are not eligible for probation and parole officer positions if:
- They have been convicted of murder or a Class A, B, or C crime (any crime with a prison term of more than one year)
- They have been convicted of any crime involving theft; the falsification of official matters; bribery and corrupt practices; and drugs.
- They have been convicted of a domestic abuse crime.
- They have been convicted of a DUI
- They are abusing drugs and/or alcohol
Education and Experience Requirements for Maine Probation and Parole Officer Jobs
Before candidates can pursue a career as a probation or parole officer in Maine, they must obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a number of areas, including:
- Criminal Justice
- Behavioral Science
- Social Science
- A closely related field
Candidates must also possess at least six months of experience in probation or parole work, case management, counseling, or law enforcement. Although the bachelor’s degree and experience requirements are the standard for Maine probation and parole officer jobs, the Department of Corrections may consider candidates who possess an equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.
How to Become a Probation or Parole Officer in Maine
Candidates for probation and parole officer jobs in Maine, provided they have submitted an application and have met all minimum requirements for employment, must undergo a number of pre-employment tests, including a criminal history check, a reference check, and a psychological examination.
All probation and parole officer careers are posted on the Maine Career Centers website. Further, individuals should expect to accompany their application with required documents that verify the information found on the application. Documents may include diplomas, transcripts, and certificates or licenses.
Training Requirements for Probation and Parole Officers in Maine
All new probation and parole officer recruits are under a six-month probation period, during which they must attend a facility orientation and complete at least 160 hours of training, which includes six weeks of classroom training, followed by weekly on-the-job training.