Probation and parole became part of the Department of Corrections in Wyoming when the latter was established in 1991. Before that, matters related to probation and parole were handled by the Board of Charities and Reform which was created in 1890.
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The Department of Probation and Parole was established in 1941 with one officer and a grand total of 21 cases statewide. By 1991, that number had increased to 2,857 and 374 active adult probation and parole cases respectively.
Requirements to Become a Probation and Parole Officer in Wyoming
Job candidates in Wyoming must meet the following requirements in order to become probation and parole officers in Wyoming:
- 21 to 37 years old
- Bachelor’s degree or better
- Valid driver’s license
- Good written and oral communication skills
- Physically able to work in the field and drive substantial distances
- Certification desirable but not required (must become certified within one year of hiring)
How to Apply for a Job as Probation and Parole Officer in Wyoming
Persons interested in becoming a probation/parole officer in Wyoming should first check to see if there are any openings by either going to the Wyoming Department of Corrections website or contacting personnel at 877/936-2462. If there is an opening, candidates must complete the following forms:
- Official State of Wyoming application
- Pre-employment background questionnaire
- IRS form 8821
Forms can be downloaded at the Department of Corrections website or obtained from the Department of Probation and Parole, Job Information, 1934 Wyatt Drive, Suite 100, Cheyenne WY 82002; Tel: 877/936-2562.
Completed forms must be mailed to the above address along with copies of a valid driver’s license, proof of birth and highest-level diploma.
The Hiring Process
Persons whose applications are accepted will complete the following:
- Oral interview
- Fingerprinting
- Criminal Background check
- Drug test
- Medical exam
- Job offer
- 32-hour orientation session (within six months of hiring)
Probation/parole officers in Wyoming earn an average annual salary of $37,000. Although this is less than the national average of $52,110, the cost-of-living is lower than average in Wyoming and residents have the opportunity to live in the home state of Yellowstone and Teton National Parks. Employee benefits include medical/dental/life insurance, credit union, and competitive holiday, vacation and sick leave pay.