By a recent count there were 90 probation officers and correctional assistants working in Provo, Utah, where they are officially known as adult probation and parole officers. This official title is meant to distinguish them from the juvenile probation officer position and highlight their two-purpose role in parole, or early prison release, and probation.
The statewide annual salary for these jobs last year was $45,990, and the national demand for these professions is projected to increase by 18 percent through the year 2020. Adult probation and parole officers play a crucial role in the Provo area, helping offenders learn how to become reintegrated into society while at the same time holding them to account for their probation and parole terms.
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Education and Experience for Provo Adult Probation and Parole Officers
The State of Utah requires all adult probation and parole officers to have at least a high school diploma and be 21 years of age or older. No previous experience is required as an extensive training program is provided, however, preference is given to candidates with a relevant work history, bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, psychology, or social work, and those who are bilingual.
To begin the application process candidates need to monitor Utah’s State jobs listings for adult probation and parole officer listings. These are offered by the Department of Corrections, with two facilities being located in the Provo area, region four – the Adult Probation and Parole Office and the Treatment Resource Center. Applications are only solicited when there is a vacancy, and before applying candidates must register with the State human resources department by creating an online account. When a position becomes available applicants should complete the online application in its entirety and honestly, as there will be a background check later in the process.
Training for an Adult Probation and Parole Officer Career
Provo’s probation officers participate in a detailed training program during their first year of employment. This will include:
- Training Academy and Correctional Officer II certification
- Firearms training
- CAT-I Certification
- CPR and first aid
- Peace Officer certification
After their first year on the job, adult probation and parole officers in Provo must also gain 40 hours of in-service training annually.
What to Expect from a Provo-based Adult Probation and Parole Officer Career
Officers try to link offenders with the right community resources and help with the ultimate goal of complete criminal rehabilitation. This means getting to know offenders and the available community resources. Officers also work closely with the courts, which requires at least a basic knowledge of legal procedures. In Provo’s area there were by a recent count 2,679 offenders on probation, with the most common reasons being:
- Felony probation
- Parole
- Class A misdemeanor probation
- Awaiting sentence