Probation Officer I

Position Overview Under direction, maintains a caseload of probationers, collects court-ordered monies, and performs other clerical tasks associated with the supervision of probationers and other diverted offenders. Records suspended work release sentences imposed by District Court Judges. Supervises assigned probationers/divertees. Monitors compliance of probationers with sentence conditions. Successful performance of duties requires initiative, thoroughness, sound judgment, an even temperament, and the ability to deal objectively, professionally, and effectively with individuals of diverse backgrounds, socio-economic levels, and dispositions.

This position will supervise clients under a specialized program established by the Mandatory Treatment Act of 1990, the Court Referral Program, and will require certification under such a program. Essential Duties and Responsibilities (All duties may not be included in any one position, nor does the list include all tasks found in a position of this class).

• Attends District and Circuit Court sentencing dockets to record suspended work release and other alternative sentences.
• Conducts initial intake and processing of probationers.
• Explains the rules and conditions of sentences.
• Establishes payment schedules.
• Coordinates and assists probationers with enrollment and completion of court-ordered treatment programs and seminars.
• Ensures that all necessary information and file documentation is obtained.
• Maintains file documentation of reporting, payment, and compliance history of assigned caseload.
• Counsels and assists caseloads in resolving personal problems affecting their ability to complete their suspended sentence(s).
• Monitors assigned caseload through in-office meetings.
• Review jail sheets, arrest reports, and court dockets.
• Collects, records, and issues receipts for scheduled payments of court-ordered monies.
• Maintains accountability for all monies collected.
• Documents and addresses non-compliance of probationers through counseling and approved sanctions.
• Notifies the court of delinquent probationers and notifies the court and probationer of dates set.
• Initiates and documents the issuance of bench warrants for failure to appear or failure to comply with a suspended sentence.

Education and Experience Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher from an accredited college or university with a focus in criminal justice, corrections, behavioral science, or a closely related field is required unless substituted by any equivalent combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Knowledge, Skill, and Ability

• Basic knowledge of criminal law and criminal procedure, specifically misdemeanor codes and District Court proceedings.
• Basic knowledge of the methods and practices of criminal justice and corrections agencies, specifically community-based corrections programs.
• Working knowledge of current concepts in social psychology and criminology.
• Skill in interviewing and counseling.
• Skill to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, objective reports and summaries.
• Ability to use independent judgment and initiative.
• Ability to handle and account for monies collected.
• Ability to work under harried conditions, organizing and completing multiple tasks in a number of different areas.
• Ability to deal objectively, professionally, and effectively with numerous groups of individuals, regardless of the nature or stress of the situation.
• Employee must possess the verbal and hearing skills necessary to conduct interviews, use a multi-line telephone, explain rules and sentencing conditions, and appear in court as required.
• Employee must also possess adequate vision and mobility to access and maintain all necessary files and documentation, move between various offices (e.g. courtrooms, the jail, etc.) to perform various assigned tasks, as well as operate a motor vehicle when required.

Other Requirements Physical Requirements

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time.
• Must be able to communicate effectively.
• The person in this position frequently communicates in person and on the telephone.
• The person in this position must be able to move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.

Certifications or Licenses Required

• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Must be at least 21 years of age and a United States Citizen.
• Must have no prior history of drug/alcohol abuse or addiction.
• Must not have been convicted of a felony, crime of moral turpitude, or have violated the Alabama Uniformed Controlled Substance Act.

Work Schedule

• 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Monday - Friday

To be considered for this position, all applicants must complete the employment application in full.

Madison County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer that encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. Madison County is a drug-free workplace and conducts drug and alcohol testing.

Benefits

A comprehensive set of benefits is offered for all full-time employees. No benefits are offered to part-time or seasonal employees. Please consult with the Human Resources Department for a full list of benefits.

Madison County periodically reviews and when fiscally able, adjusts salary rates and our benefits package to remain competitive in our area.

Benefits Summary

Healthcare Insurance: Blue Cross of Alabama is administered through the Local Government Health Insurance Plan (LGHIP). Coverage Type Employee's Premium Single Coverage Bi-weekly Premium $ 61.00 Family Coverage Bi-weekly Premium $ 150.00

Dental Coverage: Dental coverage is included with LGHIP through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama. LGHIP manages dental costs and provides enhanced dental benefits using negotiated discounts with in-network dentists. To locate in-network dentists go to www.bcbsal.com. Assuming the services are covered you will normally only be responsible for out of pocket.

Life Insurance: Madison County provides $25,000 in life, $25,000 in accidental death and dismemberment and $25,000 line of duty insurance to eligible employees in certified positions.

Employee Retirement Plans: Employees are required to participate in the Employees Retirement System, which is a Defined Benefit Plan administered through the Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA). Participants contribute 5% to 8.5% of their earnings depending on their hire date and classification. Sworn Certified Personnel have an accelerated contribution schedule

*Employer contribution percentage is set by the Retirement Systems of Alabama and changes annually.

Employee Clinic: Madison County employees and dependents over age 12 may use the Employee Health Clinic for the low co-pay of $15.00 per visit. To be eligible to use the clinic, the employee and dependent must be enrolled in Madison County's health insurance plan as their primary coverage.

Voluntary Plans are also available:

• Additional life Insurance for employee and dependents
• Flexible spending accounts (healthcare and childcare)
• Vision Insurance

Holidays, Annual Leave and Sick Leave:

*Minimum of 10 holidays per calendar year *Accrue 8 hours of annual leave and 8 hours of sick leave per month