We have some exciting news!!
Butte County Probation Department is now offering a $5,000 hiring bonus for entry-level Deputy Probation Officer I.
The salary range for level I is $2,211.20 - $2,963.20 biweekly ($27.64 - $37.04 per hour).
Following the closing of the recruitment, qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the written examination that is tentatively scheduled for Monday January 12, 2026, at 8:30 a.m.Qualified applicants can expect to receive an email notification no later than Monday January 5,2026. inviting them to the January 12, 2026 exam.
Applicants who have already taken the Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC) written exam for Juvenile Corrections Officer, Adult Corrections Officer or Probation Officer within the last twelve months with Butte County or any other agency and received a T-Score of 47.0 or higher may not have to take the written examination.
For more information about the Butte County Probation Department, please visit https://www.buttecounty.net/probation.
FLSA: Non-Exempt
DEFINITION
Under close or general supervision or direction, performs a variety of professional peace officer duties in the field of adult and juvenile community corrections and juvenile residential corrections; conducts investigations and monitoring of adult or juvenile offenders in a community setting and may provide custody, security, and programming of juveniles in an institutional setting; provides pre-trial, pre-sentence and post-sentence recommendations to the court; caseload management, support, and guidance to alleged and convicted offenders; and performs related duties as assigned.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives close or general supervision or direction from an assigned Probation Officer Supervisor. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
Deputy Probation Officer I: This is the entry-level classification in the Deputy Probation Officer series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine probation services. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II-level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is generally supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.
Deputy Probation Officer II: This is the fully qualified journey-level classification in the Deputy Probation Officer series. Positions at this level are responsible for performing the full range of assigned duties to ensure the justice, rehabilitation, and safety of probationers, and detained youth, and to enforce conditions of probation. Positions work independently, exercise judgment and initiative, receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Incumbents are responsible for monitoring and providing rehabilitative services to adult and juvenile offenders and for ensuring adherence to court orders while promoting reduced recidivism and increased pro-social behaviors. Positions at the II-level are normally filled by advancement from the I-level after gaining the knowledge, skill, and experience which meet the qualifications for and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of the higher-level class.
Deputy Probation Officer III: This is the advanced journey-level classification in the Deputy Probation Officer series responsible for performing the most complex work assigned to the series and is competent to perform the full range of probation peace officer duties for a diversified clientele and, in addition, responsible for ancillary duties in support of their unit supervisor and in furthering departmental initiatives through mentoring and guidance of subordinate deputies and others. Incumbents regularly work on tasks which are varied and complex, requiring considerable discretion and independent judgement. Positions in the classification rely on experience and judgement to perform assigned duties. Assignments are given with general guidelines and incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver services. Work is typically reviewed upon completion for soundness, appropriateness and conformity to policy and requirements. Incumbents at the III-level have demonstrated greater initiative, independence, and latitude of judgement in the completion of work assignments, completed all trainings as required, demonstrated substantial understanding and consistent use of the best practices in corrections, served a minimum of two years as a Deputy Probation Officer II or equivalent class.
Positions in the Deputy Probation Officer class series are flexibly staffed; positions at the II- and III-levels may be filled by advancement from the I-level and the II-level; progression to the II- and III-levels is dependent on (i) management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned to the classification; (ii) satisfactory work performance; (iii) the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the classification including any licenses and certifications; and (iv) management approval for progression to the II- and III-levels.
Typical functions may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, abilities, and other characteristics. The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks.- Performs the full range of responsibilities as a California Peace Officer as identified in PC 830.5.
- Maintains communication and liaison with families, law enforcement, social services, educators, and other community resource agencies.
- Performs related duties as assigned.
When performing community corrections duties:- Performs case management services while ensuring adherence to conditions of probation and facilitating rehabilitation by supervising, counseling, and monitoring clients on probation.
- Interviews probationers, families, and other individuals using evidence-based practices to investigate and assess probationer criminal and social history, risks, and needs and to determine how each case is to be treated; develops and implements case plans based on probationer’s history and needs.
- Prepares various court reports including assessments, case plans, petitions, discovery, and related legal and case documents; provides court with a sentencing recommendation.
- Conducts investigations and field searches using accepted data collection methods to establish facts and draw valid conclusions; analyzes data including, but not limited to medical, social history, and legal reports, as well as other documents.
- Effectively makes arrests of violators, serves warrants, and issues citations.
- Represents the department at various court proceedings and/or testifies in court and other hearings regarding sentencing recommendations, probation violations and termination, revocation hearings, probation modifications, case disposition, and case related issues.
- Requests evaluations, refers, and coordinates and monitors participation in mental health, medical, substance abuse, community service, and related treatment and rehabilitation programs.
- Intervenes in crisis situations, counsels individuals and families, and makes referrals.
- Works closely with schools, courts, community agencies, law enforcement, District Attorney and staff, client attorneys, other legal representation, and others during the course of client’s probation including attending various meetings.
- Coordinates ongoing activities of various probation programs including but not limited to work release, home supervision/electronic monitoring, and community service.
- Prepares and maintains a variety of reports, files, legal documents, correspondence, and records.
- Transports probationers to custodial facilities and court hearings.
- Attends meetings and participates in training; stays abreast of new trends, new legislation, court decisions and innovations in the field of probation.
When performing institutions duties:- Monitors a caseload of youth detained at the County Juvenile Hall.
- Oversees, monitors, and ensures the safety, security, treatment, recreation, personal hygiene, and other daily living activities of youth detained at the County Juvenile Hall.
- Ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and department policies and procedures.
- Plans, organizes, and supervises a program of work, education, and recreation for a group of youth in the County’s Juvenile Hall; monitors daily activities and leisure time to ensure adherence to established schedules; conducts room and other visual checks for facility security and health related purposes.
- Educates youth on positive behavior in accordance with established protocols; confers with assigned supervisor and others regarding behavior issues and to determine appropriate responses for rule infractions; implements behavior modification; holds juveniles accountable for their behavior.
- Communicates and consults with attorneys, the Court, families, law enforcement and social service agencies regarding youth detained at the County Juvenile Hall.
- Performs case management services to youth and their families; conducts intake assessments and develops individualized treatment plans including behavior modification goals; provides crisis intervention, re-entry planning and referral as required; facilitates and co-facilitates group sessions to provide supportive counseling and self-help education.
- Reviews medical orders; ensures youth receive prescribed medication when appropriate; performs first aid when needed; may complete routine medical screening.
- Oversees control room; compiles, updates, and generates reports on youth in custody; completes and maintains files; verifies and ensures accuracy of data; documents daily activities, behavioral observations, and general information; monitors and records progress on counseling goals.
- Supervises on-site visitations; remains alert for potential problems and takes measures to reduce tension and avoid violence.
- Transports youth to and from the court, medical and dental appointments, work sites, and other juvenile correctional facilities.
- Supervises youth while on community services projects and vocational readiness projects; ensures the completion of work in a timely manner, a safe work site, and that proper and safe working procedures are followed.
Some knowledge and abilities may be gained by employees at the entry (I) level while in a learning capacity.
Knowledge of:- Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to the custody, rehabilitation, safety and security, and well-being of youths in a juvenile detention facility and probationers.
- Principles, practices, methods, and equipment used in a juvenile detention facility.
- Methods and techniques needed when dealing appropriately with youths in custody.
- Proper safety and security practices and precautions as they relate to a juvenile detention facility.
- Basic principles, practices, and procedures of juvenile, adult, civil and criminal justice systems.
- First aid and emergency medical procedures.
- Principles and practices of adult and juvenile probation work including evidence-based practices and conducting investigations and assessments.
- Principles and practices of applied psychology and behavior modification including interviewing, counseling, and crisis intervention.
- Cultural, economic, and social factors affecting adult and juvenile justice system-involved individuals.
- Local and general community resources available to probationers and families.
- Case planning and management.
- Court procedures and operations.
- Principles of investigation and laws governing search and seizure and preservation of evidence.
- Record keeping principles and procedures.
- Principles and techniques for working with groups and fostering effective team interaction to ensure teamwork is conducted smoothly.
- Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.
- The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
- Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.
Ability To:- Enforce Probation and Juvenile Hall policies and procedures to ensure the safety and security of those supervised.
- Supervise and monitor probationers, including completing court-ordered investigations, placement in rehabilitation programs, enforcing terms of probation, search and seizure, arrest, transport, and/or recommending revocation of probation.
- Assess and evaluate the risks and needs of adult and youth probationers, and detained youth, by conducting investigations and assessments, including in crisis situations, and determining appropriate actions.
- Educate and counsel youth on positive behavior in accordance with established protocols.
- Respond to emergency and crisis situations calmly and effectively.
- Demonstrate understanding of, sensitivity to, and respect for youth and families from culturally diverse backgrounds.
- Work under stressful conditions with youths who are delinquent and/or emotionally disturbed.
- Prepare and maintain accurate and comprehensive records.
- Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
- Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, and procedural, guidelines.
- Assess and evaluate the risks and needs of probationers by conducting investigations and assessments, including in crisis situations, and determining appropriate actions.
- Develop and implement effective case management strategies including case plans with objectives, goals, and rehabilitation plans.
- Research, compile, and analyze case-related documents and make appropriate deductions and recommendations based on information.
- Supervise and monitor probationers, including completing court-ordered investigations, placement in rehabilitation programs, enforcing terms of probation, search and seizure, arrest, transport, and/or recommending revocation of probation.
- Respond in emergency and crisis situations calmly and effectively.
- Demonstrate understanding of, sensitivity to, and respect for individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds.
- Work under stressful conditions with individuals who are delinquent and/or emotionally disturbed.
- Prepare comprehensive reports and recommendations related to probation.
- Testify in court.
- Effectively represent the department and the County in meetings with governmental agencies; community groups; and in meetings with individuals.
- Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
- Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
- Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
- Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A customary way to obtain the required qualifications would be: Deputy Probation Officer I:
Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in criminal justice, social science, behavioral science, or a closely related field;OREquivalent to an associate’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in criminal justice, social science, behavioral science, or a closely related field; ANDTwo (2) years of experience working with members of the public, keeping records, interpreting and applying laws and regulations, and working with people from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.Deputy Probation Officer II:
In addition to the qualifications listed above, one (1) year of experience at a level equivalent to the County's class of Deputy Probation Officer I, including the required Probation Officer and/or Juvenile Corrections Officer CORE training, depending upon assignment, 832 PC training, and CPR/First Aid training.Deputy Probation Officer III:
In addition to the qualifications listed in Deputy Probation Officer I, two (2) years of experience at a level equivalent to the County's class of Deputy Probation Officer II,Certifications and Licenses:- Must possess a valid US driver’s license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver’s license following hire date per California DMV regulations.
- Must successfully complete and obtain the following department provided trainings within the first year of employment:
- A Standards and Training Probation Officer and/or Juvenile Corrections Officer CORE certificate certified by the Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC)
- A certificate of completion of Penal Code 832 Course in Arrest, Search and Seizure issued by California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training.; and
- A CPR/First Aid certification by the authority of the Board of State and Community Corrections Training Manual.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS- Maintain California Board of State and Community Corrections physical standards including mobility, physical strength and stamina to respond to emergency situations and perform assigned duties.
- Vision to maintain a firearms qualification (if assigned) and to read printed materials and a computer screen.
- Hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups, over the telephone and radio.
- Mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various County sites.
- The position requires fieldwork requiring frequent walking on uneven terrain, and climbing and descending structures to access work sites.
- Positions in this classification frequently bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information;
- Positions in this classification must possess the ability to lift, carry, push and pull materials and objects up to 150 pounds as necessary to perform job functions.
- Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment and to operate public safety equipment.
- Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals on a case-by-case basis.
WORKING CONDITIONS- Employees work indoors and outdoors, and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards and hazardous physical substances and fumes.
- The duties of this class are performed in an environment with exposure to criminal justice and juvenile justice system-involved individuals, mentally ill individuals, and persons potentially infected with communicable diseases.
- Employees may interact with members of the public or with staff under emotionally stressful conditions while interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS- Must be willing to work emergencies and on evenings, weekends, and holidays and work rotating shifts
- Must meet minimum standards as described in California Government Code Sections 1029 and 1031.
- Must be willing to abide by California Penal Code Sections 830.5, and California Government Code Section 8617.
- Must meet physical standards established by the California Board of State and Community Corrections and any other pre-employment as well as ongoing peace officer requirements pursuant to federal, state, and local legislation.
- Must be willing to work with criminal justice and juvenile justice system-involved individuals.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATIONThese positions have peace officer status under Penal Code Section 830.5 and may require incumbents to be armed. All Deputy Probation Officers will be expected to participate in a continuum of force training program which includes control of aggression, tactical negotiations, unarmed defensive tactics, and use of pepper spray. Incumbents may also enroll in, and successfully complete, the department's arming training, maintain qualification standards, and may be requested to accept an armed assignment at the discretion of the appointing authority.EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS UTILIZED
Equipment utilized includes a motor vehicle, personal computer, fax machine, and standard office equipment.Specialized Equipment includes personal protective clothing and equipment, hand-held radio, drug and chemical analysis kits, pepper spray and physical restraints, firearms (if assigned), and less lethal weapons.
Disaster Service Worker
All Butte County employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency. 