PAROLE OFFICERBY: EMMA GRUENWALD

JOB DESCRIPTION

Parole officers work with offenders who are on parole; who have committed serious crimes and

have already served part of their sentence in prison. They are released from prison on the

condition that they follow certain rules. Parole officers who work in prison may help the state

parole board to decide whether offenders should be granted parole by investigating their behavior

and submitting recommendations. When an offender is released on parole, a parole officer

supervises the person and offers guidance in any problems the offender may have.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Most parole officers are employed by the state and county government agencies; some work

for the federal government. The job is very challenging and frustrating. This job can also

disrupt officer’s social and personal plans. They work in offices or travel to meet with clients.

Parole officers work with all age groups and with the offenders family, teachers, and welfare

workers. They usually work a 40 hour week, but overtime is common. They’re usually on call 24

hours a day.

PROS VS. CONS

Pros• Working with diverse groups• Protecting and enhancing the

community• Independence• Making a positive change in lives

PROS VS. CONS (CONTINUED)

Cons• Must learn to leave work at work and

home at home• Lots of stresses• Your work must always be excellent

due to being a public figure• Lots of paperwork• Dealing with inappropriate court

decisions

EARNINGSSouth Dakota Wages• Entry Annual Wage $32,

590• Median Annual Wage

$36,810• Experienced Annual Wage $42,

620National Wages• Entry Annual Wage

$36,440• Median Annual Wage

$47,200• Experienced Annual Wage

$62,820

OUTLOOKSouth Dakota Outlook

Occupation

Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists

Employment

2008 2018

435 470

National Outlook

Occupation

Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists

Employment

2008 2018

103,400 123,300

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Most states require a bachelor’s degree in social work , criminology,

or a related field and/or work experiences in social services or a criminal justice field. Bachelor’s degree usually take 4 years to complete. In some states to

requirements are minimal, but a bachelor’s degree or a related work

experience can increase your chances of getting hired.

EDUCATION & TRAINING (CONTINUED)

Potential parole officers are usually required to pass oral and written exams. Psychological tests and

medical evaluations may also be given. Candidates must complete a specialized training program before they can apply for employment or complete a training program after

they’ve been hired. A master's degree is recommended for federal

officers.

OTHER SUGGESTED QUALIFICATIONS

Parole officers should be good at dealing with all kinds of people and have great

leadership and communication skills. They should also have good personal judgment and a sense of community responsibility.

They should also have an interest in improving social conditions. Volunteer work in social services would be a good idea for

a career in parole work. Applicants also need to pass a criminal background check.

SOURCE

https://www.careercruising.com/Careers/JobDetails.aspx?LoginID=de6b6d38-9b78-4619-92ed-3069a3d9c554-4&OccNumber=348&field=AtaGlance