Probation Officer Jobs in California
A Probation Officer is a vital role in the social service industry. Their primary role is to supervise offenders who have been placed on probation instead of serving time in prison. They monitor the conduct and behavior of these individuals to ensure they comply with the terms of their probation. Probation Officers work closely with local law enforcement, treatment service providers, and the courts. They conduct interviews and investigations, write reports, and frequently make recommendations about sentencing or rehabilitation.
To be effective in their role, Probation Officers must possess excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills. They should also have a solid understanding of the psychology of human behavior and criminology. A Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, social work, psychology, or a related field is usually required. They also need to be certified, which includes completing a training program and passing a certification exam. Job roles a person may have before becoming a Probation Officer include Social Worker, Juvenile Counselor, or Case Manager.
Assistant Deputy Chief Probation and Pretrial Services Officer (Pretrial Division)
- Los Angeles, CA
- 16 hours ago
- Los Angeles, CA
- 16 hours ago
Court Name/Organization California Central District Court Location Los Angeles, CA Opening and Closing Dates 04/25/2025 - 05/16/2025 Appointment Type Permanent Classification Level/Grade CL 31...
The medical requirements and essential job functions derived from the medical guidelines for probation officers are available for at U.S....
8530-Deputy Probation Officer (SFERS) Exam Announcement
- San Francisco, CA
- 3 days ago
- San Francisco, CA
- 3 days ago
Probation Officer....
The Probation Officer I is the entry-level clas s in the Probation Officer series....
U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Officer
- Woodland Hills, CA
- 4 days ago
- Woodland Hills, CA
- 4 days ago
Court Name/Organization California Central District Court Overview of the Position The U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office Central District of California is a part of the U.S. District...
services/treatment staff and may participate in multi-agency task force assignments This is the entry-level class in the Deputy Probation Officer series....
Probation Officer in Bakersfield....
Communicate with other law enforcement and/or social service agencies on crime investigation and prevention....
Deputy Probation Officer I is the entry level classification in the Deputy Probation Officer series, offering various career paths for future growth....
Cultural, economic, and social factors affecting adult and juvenile justice system-involved individuals. Local and general community resources available to probationers and families....
Deputy Probation Officer - Supervising - #2025-11813-01
- Auburn, CA
- 14 days ago
- Auburn, CA
- 14 days ago
View this Recruitment: Deputy Probation Officer - Supervising - #2025-11813-01...
View this Recruitment: Deputy Probation Officer I - Field - #2025-14406-01...
View this Recruitment: Deputy Probation Officer II - Field - #2025-14408-01...
The Placer County Probation Department is currently hiring for Deputy Probation Officer I/II - Field....
Chief Probation Officer; acting for the Chief Probation Officer during absences; and performing related work, as required....
Demographic Data for California
Moving to California? Find some basic demographic data about California below.
Probation Officer Online Courses and Training Opportunities
Salary for Probation Officer Jobs in California
Required or preferred licenses and certifications for Probation Officer positions.
Highest Education Level
Probation Officers in California offer the following education backgroundQualifications / Skill Sets
The following top skills are often required or desired to land a Probation Officer position
- OC Spray
- Community Resources
- Supportive Counseling
- Bachelor of Criminal Justice
- Human Services
- Social Services
- Juvenile Justice
- Case Planning
- Foster Care
- Bachelors Degree in Psychology
- Child Welfare
- Home Visits
- Crisis Intervention
- Intake Assessments
- Substance Abuse
- Mental Health
- Interventions
- Substance Abuse Counseling
- Sociology
- Domestic Violence
- Needs Assessment
- Community Service
- Drug and Alcohol Counseling
- Criminal Justice
- Discharge Planning
- Corrections
- Case Management
- Motivational Interviewing
- Law Enforcement
- Crisis Management
- Rehabilitation
- Psychology
- Report Writing
- Counseling
- Drug Testing
- Business Correspondence
- Recordkeeping
- Referrals
- Interviewing
- Closing
- Background Checks
- Military Background
- Written Communication
- Investigation
- Driving
- Telephone Skills
- Documentation
- Bachelor's Degree
- Education Experience
- Filing
- Regulations
- Policy Development
- Staff Supervision
- Organization
- Scheduling
- Computer Skills
- Communication Skills
Other Career Titles
Here are some other career titles that require similar skills
Probation Officer Related Career Advice Articles

5 Unique Social Services Jobs
Read our guide to social services jobs – including probation officers, family therapists, and child advocates – to find the one that’s right for you.
Read article »